Every homeowner in Utah knows the importance of having an air conditioning system that can do a good job of keeping their home cool and comfortable during the summer. Modern air conditioners are designed to last a very long time. Unfortunately, these units can develop problems. One of the most common air conditioner problems that you may encounter is short cycling.
Short cycling can be a major issue for your AC. It is a symptom of several possible problems and ignoring it can lead to even more trouble for you down the road. Have you ever had short cycling problems with your air conditioner? Do you know why it is happening or what it could mean for your AC?
We have prepared this guide to give you a breakdown on short cycling, its causes, and how it can be bad for your air conditioner. Understanding the problem might help you realize the importance of scheduling air conditioning repair in Draper, UT before it is too late.
What Is Short Cycling?
Short cycling is a term used in the HVAC industry to refer to a cooling system that turns on and off frequently without completing its cooling cycle. The shorter the cycle is, the harder your air conditioning system has to work.
If your air conditioner is working fine, the unit will power up the compressor, and it will stay on until it can achieve the desired temperature setting and power off once it meets the requirement. The unit will power on the compressor again when the temperature exceeds the ideal temperature setting.
A short cycling air conditioner powers on the compressor but turns it off before reaching the desired temperature. The unit then restarts the compressor in a short while, repeating the cycle, causing additional strain on your system.
What Causes Short Cycling?
Short cycling is both a symptom and a cause of several air conditioner problems. Multiple issues could lead to your air conditioner short cycling, including:
- An over- or under-sized air conditioner
- Low refrigerant levels caused by leaks
- A malfunctioning thermostat
- A dirty or clogged air filter
- Air leaking through a damaged ventilation system
Why Is Short Cycling Bad for Your Air Conditioner?
Any of these problems can lead to your air conditioner developing a short cycling problem. Unfortunately, short cycling might not be the end of it. The compressor uses the most power while turning on. When your air conditioner keeps turning the compressor on and off more frequently than it should, it causes additional strain on the system.
Since short cycling forces the air conditioner to work harder, it can lead to additional wear and tear. Ignoring short cycling can lead to the compressor overheating and burning out. Before the compressor gives out, your air conditioner will leave you with higher electricity bills because of the hard work it has to do to keep your home cool. You could end up with a hefty bill for repairs if you let the system break down.
How to Fix Short Cycling
Ignoring short cycling in your air conditioner can lead to more damage to the system and a complete breakdown that could require extensive repairs or a complete replacement. Fortunately, you can fix the problem if you know who to contact.
If your air conditioner is short cycling, you should turn it off and immediately contact a professional technician to come and fix the problem.
Contact Rentmeister Total Home Service for your air conditioning care.