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If your air conditioning system is turning on and off more frequently than usual, it could be a sign of short-cycling—a common AC issue that can cause major discomfort and even system damage if left unaddressed. At Edelman, we regularly help homeowners identify and fix the underlying problems behind this behavior to keep their cooling systems running smoothly.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at what short-cycling is, why it happens, and why it’s important to call in HVAC professionals as soon as it starts. We solve problems with HVAC systems in Delavan.
What Is Short-Cycling?
Short-cycling occurs when your air conditioner starts up, runs for only a short period, and then shuts down before reaching the set temperature. It may restart within minutes, only to shut off again just as quickly. This on-off pattern can repeat continuously, creating stress on the system and reducing its overall efficiency.
A healthy AC system runs long enough to cool your home to the desired temperature before cycling off. When it short-cycles, it never completes its cooling cycle, which leads to inconsistent temperatures and increased energy use.
Signs Your AC Is Short-Cycling
Wondering if your system might be short-cycling? Here are the telltale signs:
- AC turns off within a few minutes of starting
- Inconsistent or uneven indoor temperatures
- Rising energy bills without increased usage
- Unusual noises or system strain
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to investigate further—short-cycling rarely goes away on its own.
Common Causes of Short-Cycling
Several issues can trigger short-cycling, and getting to the root cause is essential for long-term repair. Some of the most frequent culprits include:
1. Oversized Air Conditioner
An oversized AC unit may cool your home too quickly, causing it to shut off before completing a proper cycle. While that might sound like a benefit, it actually results in more frequent starts and stops—which wears out system components and fails to dehumidify your indoor air effectively.
2. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is essential for removing heat from your home. When refrigerant levels drop—often due to a leak—the system can’t perform efficiently. This imbalance forces the AC to work harder and restart often, leading to short-cycling.
3. Dirty Air Filters
Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing the system to overheat and shut down prematurely. Simply replacing or cleaning the air filter can sometimes resolve short-cycling and improve overall performance.
4. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Poor airflow or refrigerant issues can cause your evaporator coils to freeze. When this happens, your system may cycle off early in an attempt to protect itself from damage.
Why Short-Cycling Is a Problem
Even if your home still feels cool, short-cycling can lead to several long-term issues:
- Higher energy bills – Your system uses more electricity due to constant restarting.
- Increased wear and tear – Frequent cycling shortens the lifespan of parts like the compressor and fan motor.
- Decreased comfort – Uneven cooling and higher humidity levels make your home less comfortable.
- System failure risk – Left unresolved, short-cycling can cause major breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Stop the Short-Cycling With Help From Edelman
Short-cycling might be common, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. If your AC is turning on and off too frequently, don’t wait until it leads to a major breakdown. Call the professionals at Edelman for prompt, reliable service and lasting comfort solutions.
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