Your air conditioner turning on and off frequently is more than just a nuisance. It signals a problem known as short cycling. This issue can wear down your AC unit quickly. However, we wish this was the only problem. If you AC short cycle, you may expect higher energy bills, a drop in comfort, and potentially expensive repairs.
Who wants that? To help you navigate this issue and keep your AC unit running in tip-top shape, we’ll explore solid ways you can easily prevent short cycling.
Short-Cycling: What Is It?
Short-cycling happens when your air conditioner cannot complete a full cooling cycle. Typically, your AC should run about three cooling cycles per hour, each lasting around 10 minutes. These cycles allow the system to cool your home gradually and maintain a consistent temperature.
In normal circumstances, the compressor, a key component in the AC system, compresses the refrigerant, enabling it to absorb heat from your home and release it outside. When short cycling occurs, the compressor starts and stops repeatedly in short bursts.
This frequent cycling reduces the efficiency of your AC and puts excessive stress on the compressor. This, on the other hand, raises the risk of a breakdown.
Compressor failure is the type of repair that can cost you an arm and a leg, so we recommend taking care of short cycling issues as soon as possible.
What Causes Your AC To Short Cycle?
Your AC may be short-cycling for several reasons. But when you identify the cause early, you’re ahead of the game and can quickly resolve the issue.
Low Levels of Refrigerant
Low refrigerant levels are a common cause of AC short cycling. Without enough refrigerant, the AC struggles to maintain proper pressure, causing the evaporator coil to freeze.
As ice builds up, the unit shuts down. When the ice melts, the system restarts, only to shut down again as more ice forms. This cycle of freezing and thawing leads to short cycling and reduces the efficiency of your AC.
Poor Thermostat Placement
The location of your thermostat hugely affects how well your AC performs. If the thermostat is near a heat source or is placed in a spot that receives direct sunlight, it may register wrong temperature readings
This can cause your AC to turn on and off at weird times, leading to short-cycling. To prevent this, move the thermostat to a more central location, away from heat sources. This can help the system maintain accurate temperature control.
Oversized Air Conditioning System
An AC unit that is too large for your home cools the space pretty fast, causing it to shut down before completing a full cooling cycle. This may seem nice, but it prevents proper dehumidification and makes your home clammy.
Also, the constant starting and stopping of the unit wear down the components (especially the compressor) faster than usual.
Low-Pressure Control Switch
The low-pressure control switch is meant to shut off the AC unit if the pressure in the system drops too low, protecting the compressor. However, if this switch is faulty or old, it can mistakenly trigger short cycling.
That’s why regular AC maintenance is always our first recommendation. When you treat your system to a good TLC, it can help you identify and replace a failing low-pressure control switch before it causes you any headaches.
How To Prevent Short Cycling
Now, let’s go through the parts on how to prevent short cycling proactively while addressing immediate causes and maintaining your AC system properly.
1. Check (or Replace) Air Filters
Clogged or dirty air filters block airflow, causing the system to overheat and shut down prematurely.
So, regularly check and replace your air filters. This is a simple yet effective way to prevent short cycling and keep your air conditioner working like a horse.
2. Evaluate Thermostat Placement
If your thermostat is poorly placed, such as close to a window or in direct sunlight, it can cause your AC to short-cycle. That’s because it will trigger the system to turn on and off based on inaccurate temperature readings.
If this happens, move the thermostat to a central location on an interior wall, away from direct sunlight and drafts. This can significantly drive your system’s performance and reduce short cycling.
3. Check Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels can cause short cycling and other major problems. If you suspect your AC is low on refrigerant, have the pros check and adjust the levels.
If they find a leak in the system, they’ll repair it immediately to prevent further issues.
4. Replace Low-Pressure Control Switch
If short-cycling continues despite addressing other potential causes, the low-pressure control switch may be the issue.
In this case, replace the switch to restore normal operation and stop unnecessary cycling. You can always call the technicians if you need help. Our Service Minds One Hour team is at your service here in Daytona. We are ready to tackle any AC maintenance or repair you may need.
5. Inspect the Compressor
As previously mentioned, the compressor is an important component of your AC system. It can cause short cycling and other severe problems if damaged or worn out.
A professional inspection can tell if the compressor needs repair or replacement. Taking care of compressor issues quickly can save you from more expensive repairs down the line.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to avoiding short cycling and other AC problems. When you schedule routine check-ups, you essentially allow the techs to catch potential issues early.
If your AC unit is bigger than your home needs, consider replacing it with a properly sized system. An AC unit that matches your home’s cooling needs operates more efficiently, lowering the risk of short-cycling and extending the system’s lifespan.
How Can Service Minds One Hour Help Prevent Short Cycling?
Dealing with short-cycling or other HVAC issues often requires professional assistance. And this is not different when dealing with AC short cycling.
Service Minds One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating in Daytona, FL, is your trusted partner in HVAC maintenance and repair, equipped to handle all your AC needs. We also offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your AC in top condition.
Our technicians are ready to diagnose, repair, and prevent short cycling issues. Among some of our services, we pay close attention to the low-pressure control switch, which plays a big role in preventing short cycling. If your thermostat is poorly placed, we can relocate it to a more optimal position, improving your system’s performance.
Preventive maintenance helps avoid a hole in your pocket and extend the lifespan of your AC unit. By contacting Service Minds One Hour, you can keep your system running efficiently, save money, and maintain a comfortable home. We promise you, “We’re always on time or you don’t pay a dime!” So, give us a call today! So, give us a call today!