If your furnace keeps turning on and off frequently, this is called short cycling. It’s a common issue many homeowners face and it can lead to inefficient heating, higher energy bills, and unnecessary wear on your system. In this post, we’ll explain more about short cycling and what can be done about it, including:
Short cycling can result from a variety of issues, some of which may require an HVAC expert to inspect and repair your furnace. Keep reading to learn more about what causes short cycling and how to fix it.
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What Is Short Cycling and Why Is It a Problem?
Short cycling occurs when your furnace keeps turning on and off repeatedly, disrupting the normal heating process. It’s like constantly starting and stopping a car—it wastes energy and puts extra strain on the system. This can lead to less efficient heating, higher energy bills, and a shortened furnace lifespan, as the unit works harder without completing a full cycle.
Common Causes of Furnace Short Cycling
Furnace short cycling can happen for several reasons. Common causes and possible solutions include:
- Dirty air filters: A clogged filter restricts airflow, prematurely causing the furnace to overheat and shut off. Regularly changing the filter can prevent this.
- Thermostat issues: If the thermostat is malfunctioning or incorrectly placed, it can cause short cycling. Replacing the thermostat or moving it away from heat sources may help.
- Oversized furnace: A furnace that's too large heats the space too quickly, leading to short cycles. The best solution is to replace it with a correctly sized unit.
- Blocked vents or air ducts: Obstructed airflow can cause overheating and frequent cycling. Move obstructions away from vents or ducts to restore proper airflow.
How to Diagnose Short Cycling Issues
To help you identify why your furnace is short-cycling, follow these steps:
- Check air filters: Dirty filters can cause airflow issues. Check them regularly and, if needed, clean or replace your air filters to prevent overheating.
- Inspect the thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly and placed away from heat sources to prevent inaccurate readings.
- Examine vents and ducts: Check for blockages or obstructions that could restrict airflow and cause overheating.
- Review the furnace size: Get a professional assessment to determine whether your furnace is too large for your home, which might heat the space too quickly.
- Consult with an HVAC professional: If the problem persists, an expert can identify and resolve more complex issues.
How to Fix Short Cycling
Fixing short cycling often involves simple maintenance tasks like replacing dirty filters, relocating the thermostat to a better spot, or having the vents cleaned. If these steps don’t stop your furnace from turning on and off repeatedly or you notice other signs of mechanical failure, call the team you can trust at Advantage Air for a professional inspection and furnace repair to keep your heating system running efficiently.
The Importance of Regular Heating Maintenance
Short cycling can cause less efficient heating, higher energy bills, and strain on your furnace, shortening its life. Regular professional HVAC tune-ups can help prevent short-cycling and other common performance and safety issues, catching problems early before damage occurs. Advantage Air can diagnose and fix the root cause of short cycling to ensure your furnace operates at peak performance.
Furnace Problems? Call Advantage Air!
If you’ve been wondering why your furnace keeps turning on and off, let Advantage Air solve the mystery. With over 30 years of experience and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can trust Advantage Air Mechanical to deliver great value and service. Learn more about the heating services we offer or book an appointment today!
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