Staying cool during the hot and humid summers in Florida is vital for your family’s comfort. However, air conditioning systems can break down from time to time, and one of the most common issues that occur is short cycling. Short cycling is when an air conditioner starts a cooling cycle, shuts down prematurely, and then starts back up a short time later without completing the cycle. This can lead to higher energy bills, increased wear and tear on the compressor, and costly repairs, which is why it’s essential to know the common signs of short cycling and how to resolve the issue. In this blog, the heating and cooling experts at Pronto Air will discuss what air conditioner short cycling is, its common causes, and how to resolve the issue.
What is AC Short Cycling?
If you’re experiencing short cycling with your air conditioning system, it’s important to act fast. One common cause of short cycling is a dirty or clogged air filter, which can be resolved easily by replacing the filter. Other causes may require air conditioning repair services or even a complete replacement of your system. Refrigerant leaks and improperly sized air conditioners can also lead to short cycling, which can result in a high replacement cost. Don’t let short cycling ruin your summer comfort and increase your energy bills. Contact a trusted HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the issue before it becomes a bigger problem.
Common Causes of Short Cycling
Dirty Air Filters
A dirty or clogged air filter is a common cause of short cycling in air conditioning systems, which can ultimately lead to the need for air conditioning system replacement. Short cycling can cause the air conditioner to freeze up, restricting airflow and causing damage to the system. To prevent this, it’s important to check the air filter regularly and replace it as needed. Most air filters should be replaced every month, but the replacement interval may vary depending on various factors. It’s recommended to consult the owner’s manual to determine the correct replacement interval. By keeping the air filter clean and replacing it regularly, you can help prevent short cycling and avoid costly repairs or air conditioning system replacement.
Improperly Sized Air Conditioner
Air conditioners that are too small or too big for a home can cause short cycling problems. An oversized air conditioner is too powerful and will quickly cool your home before turning off, leading to premature wear and tear, higher energy bills, and short cycling. An undersized AC unit struggles to meet a home’s cooling demands and must work harder to efficiently cool a home, leading to higher energy bills and excess stress on the system. If your AC is short cycling because of an incorrectly sized system, the only way to fix it is with a new air conditioner.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Short cycling can be caused by ice buildup on the evaporator coils of split systems, due to restricted airflow or refrigerant issues. The evaporator coils are responsible for removing heat from your home, and if they are clogged, the refrigerant inside the coils can become too cold, leading to ice formation and short cycling. If you notice ice on the coils, turn off the air conditioning unit to allow the ice to melt. You can either use a hairdryer or run the system’s fan. If the problem persists, contact an HVAC professional to diagnose and resolve the issue.
Low Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels due to leaks can lead to reduced efficiency and eventual short cycling in your cooling system. As the refrigerant is responsible for absorbing and transferring heat, a lack of it means that your air conditioner cannot efficiently perform its function. This puts a strain on the compressor, causing it to overheat and short cycle. Unfortunately, most refrigerant leaks are not visible, and you will need to seek the help of a professional HVAC contractor to detect and fix the issue. Don’t hesitate to contact a reliable contractor to ensure that your cooling system operates at its best and that you avoid unnecessary replacement costs. Checking your system’s Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating can also help you determine its efficiency and prevent issues in the future.
Thermostat Issues
Issues with the thermostat and its placement within your home can also lead to air conditioning short cycling. If the thermostat is installed in a place near heat-generating appliances or in direct sunlight, it can negatively affect your thermostat, causing it to turn on or off at the incorrect times. A malfunctioning thermostat can also lead to short cycling issues.
Resolving Short Cycling Issues
In some cases, the problem may be related to the SEER rating of your AC unit. A low SEER rating can cause your system to short cycle and use more energy than necessary. In other cases, the issue may be related to improper installation or maintenance of the unit. It’s important to address the problem promptly to avoid expensive repairs and installation costs in the long run. Contact a trusted HVAC professional to assess your system and provide the necessary repairs or upgrades.
Looking for reliable HVAC services? Look no further than Pronto Service Pros! We’re a top-rated contractor in HVAC repairs, maintenance, and installations in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco counties. Our team of professionals is dedicated to providing 100% customer satisfaction and always has your back with our extended warranties. Contact us today at (813) 341-5400 for all your HVAspecializing C needs.