Is My AC Short Cycling?

When the summer heat peaks here in New Jersey, your air conditioning system becomes your best friend, keeping you cool and comfortable indoors. However, Comfort Now clients occasionally notice that their AC unit turns on and off frequently, a problem known as short cycling.

Short cycling affects your comfort and puts unnecessary strain on your HVAC system, leading to increased energy bills and potentially costly repairs. To explore what short cycling is, why it happens, and what you can do to address it in your Avalon home, take a look at these suggestions compiled by Comfort Now. 

What Is Short Cycling?

Short cycling is a common air conditioner problem. It refers to a situation in which your air conditioner turns on and off more frequently than usual, running for short periods before shutting down again.

Instead of maintaining a consistent temperature, your AC unit cycles on and off rapidly, often without adequately cooling your Avalon home.

Causes of Short Cycling

Several factors can contribute to short cycling, including:

1. Oversized AC Unit: New Jersey homeowners sometimes think bigger is better, as larger AC units cool your home quicker. However, they can cool your space too quickly, causing your system to cycle on and off frequently.
   
   
2. Thermostat Issues: A malfunctioning thermostat may incorrectly signal your AC system to turn on and off.
   
   
3. Dirty Air Filters: Clogged air filters restrict airflow, leading to temperature fluctuations and short cycling.
   
   
4. Refrigerant Leaks: Low refrigerant levels can cause your AC unit to malfunction and short cycle.
   
   
5. Blocked Vents: Blocked or closed vents disrupt airflow, leading to uneven cooling in your Avalon home as well as short cycling.

Effects of Short Cycling

Short cycling can have several negative consequences, including:

• Reduced Efficiency: Constantly starting and stopping your AC unit reduces its efficiency, leading to higher energy bills.
  
  
• Increased Wear and Tear: Short cycling unnecessarily strains your HVAC system’s components, leading to premature wear and potential breakdowns.
  
  
• Poor Comfort: Rapid temperature fluctuations can make your Avalon home uncomfortable, with some areas being too hot or cold.
  
  
• Higher Maintenance Costs: Frequent short cycling can result in an increased need for HVAC maintenance, leading to higher costs over time.

Addressing Short Cycling

If you suspect that your AC unit is short cycling, Comfort Now recommends taking these steps to address the issue:

1. Check the Air Filters: Replace dirty air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and prevent short cycling.
   
   
2. Inspect the Thermostat: Verify that your thermostat is functioning correctly and set it to the appropriate temperature. If necessary, have Comfort Now technicians take a look. 
   
   
3. Unblock Vents: Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed to allow proper airflow throughout your New Jersey home.
   
   
4. Schedule Maintenance: Regular HVAC maintenance can help identify and address issues that may lead to short cycling. Take advantage of Comfort Now’s maintenance plans to keep your system in great condition. 
   
   
5. Consult a Professional: If you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own, contact a qualified HVAC technician from Comfort Now to diagnose and repair any underlying problems.

Comfort Now Can Help With Short Cycling Air Conditioners

Short cycling can significantly impact the performance and efficiency of your air conditioning system. It is important to address the issue when you notice it is occurring.

To keep your home cool and comfortable all summer long, take a proactive step to address the issue by contacting Comfort Now at 609-493-0994. Our team is located in New Jersey, ready to drive out to your Avalon home to figure out what’s going on with your AC system.