When your air conditioner doesn’t work as expected, it can be frustrating and worrying. You might have noticed that your AC is turning on and off rapidly, which may be a sign that something might be wrong with your system. This issue, known as “short cycling,” is a common problem that can lead to higher energy bills, discomfort in your home, and potential damage to your air conditioning system if not addressed in a timely manner.
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what causes short cycling in air conditioning, you’re not the only one. In this blog, we’ll review what causes short cycling, how to fix it, and, most importantly, how to prevent it from happening in the first place.
What Is Short Cycling?
Before we can discuss how to fix a short cycling air conditioner, it’s important to first know what you’re dealing with. In simple terms, short cycling occurs when your air conditioning system turns on and off more frequently than it should. Instead of completing a full cooling cycle, your AC unit shuts down prematurely, only to restart again shortly afterward. This constant on-off pattern prevents your home from reaching your desired temperature and puts unnecessary strain on your HVAC system.
Short cycling is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a sign that something is wrong with your air conditioner. Ignoring the problem can lead to costly repairs or even the need for a brand-new AC system.
What Causes Short Cycling in Air Conditioning?
Now that we know what short cycling is, let’s explore some common causes. Identifying the root cause is the first step in fixing the problem.
Dirty Air Filter
One of the most common culprits behind short cycling is a dirty air filter. When the air filter is clogged with dirt and debris, it restricts airflow, making it difficult for your air conditioning unit to circulate cool air effectively. This lack of airflow can potentially cause the system to overheat, giving rise to frequent shutdowns and short cycles.
Solution: Regularly changing the air filter can help keep your AC system operating efficiently. If your air filter is dirty, replacing it can often resolve short cycling issues.
Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels due to a leak can cause your AC to short cycle. The refrigerant is essential for cooling the air in your home, and if there’s not enough of it, your AC won’t be able to reach the correct temperature, causing it to shut off prematurely.
Solution: A refrigerant leak is a serious issue that requires professional attention. If you suspect a leak, contact an HVAC professional to check your system and add more refrigerant if needed.
Oversized AC Unit
While it might seem like a bigger AC unit would cool your home faster, an oversized unit can actually cause short cycling. A unit that’s too large for your space will cool the air too quickly, shutting off before completing a full cooling cycle. This leads to uneven temperatures and increased wear and tear on your system.
Solution: If you suspect your AC is oversized, consult with an HVAC professional to evaluate your system. In some cases, replacing the unit with one that’s appropriately sized for your home might be necessary.
Thermostat Issues
Sometimes, the problem lies with the thermostat itself. If your thermostat is malfunctioning or located in a spot that doesn’t accurately represent the temperature of your home (like near a window or in direct sunlight), it can cause your AC to turn on and off unnecessarily.
Solution: Make sure your thermostat is in a central location and functioning properly. If it’s old or faulty, consider replacing it with a new, programmable thermostat.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Frozen evaporator coils can also lead to short cycling. When the coils freeze, they can’t absorb heat effectively, causing the AC to shut down to prevent further damage. Frozen coils are often a result of airflow issues, like a dirty air filter or low refrigerant levels.
Solution: If you have a frozen evaporator coil, turn off your AC and let the coils thaw completely. Check for airflow issues like a clogged air filter or low refrigerant levels, and address these problems before restarting your system.
How to Fix a Short Cycling Air Conditioner
We’ve reviewed what causes short cycling in air conditioning. Now, let’s talk about how to fix it. Here are some steps you can take to address short cycling and keep your AC running smoothly.
1. Check and Replace the Air Filter
Now that it’s time to learn how to fix a short cycling air conditioner, let’s start with the basics. As mentioned earlier, a dirty air filter can cause short cycling. Begin by checking your air filter and replacing it if it’s dirty. Regularly replacing your air filter (every one to three months) is a simple yet effective way to prevent short cycling and keep your AC in good shape.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is working correctly and is placed in a good location. If your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning, it might be time to upgrade to a newer model. A programmable thermostat can help regulate your home’s temperature more effectively and prevent short cycling.
3. Check for Refrigerant Leaks
If you suspect a refrigerant leak, don’t try to fix it yourself. Refrigerant is a hazardous substance and should only be handled by a certified HVAC professional. If a leak is detected, the technician will repair it and recharge your system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant.
4. Evaluate the Size of Your AC Unit
If your AC unit is too large for your home, it might be causing short cycling. An HVAC professional can assess your cooling needs and recommend a unit that’s properly sized. While replacing an oversized unit can be costly, it’s a worthwhile investment that will save you money on energy bills and prevent future short-cycling issues.
5. Thaw Frozen Evaporator Coils
If you notice that your evaporator coils are frozen, turn off your AC and allow the coils to thaw. Once thawed, check for airflow issues like a dirty filter or low refrigerant levels. Address these problems before restarting your AC to prevent the coils from freezing again.
How Can I Stop My AC From Short Cycling?
Preventing short cycling is easier than you might think. With regular maintenance and a few proactive steps, you can keep your AC running without trouble all summer long. Here’s how you can stop your AC from short cycling:
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is paramount to keeping your AC in top shape. Schedule an annual tune-up with a professional to check for any issues and keep your system running efficiently.
Check Your Thermostat
Confirm that your thermostat is working correctly and is placed in a central location away from direct sunlight or drafts. This will help it accurately regulate your home’s temperature.
Monitor Refrigerant Levels
Low refrigerant levels can cause short cycling and damage your AC. If you suspect a refrigerant issue, contact a professional to inspect and recharge your system as needed.
Don’t Ignore Warning Signs
If you notice your AC is short-cycling or not cooling as it should, don’t ignore the problem. Addressing issues at an early enough stage can prevent more serious damage and prolong the serviceable life of your system.
Don’t Let Air Conditioner Short Cycling Keep You Sweating
Short cycling is a frustrating problem to deal with, but it’s not one you have to face alone. By learning what causes short cycling in air conditioning, you can take the necessary steps to keep your system running without a hitch. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Comfort Now.
Whether you need simple air filter services or a comprehensive system check, we’re here to help. We’re proud to be experts at diagnosing and fixing short cycling problems.
While it can be helpful to know how to fix a short cycling air conditioner, sometimes you need a professional to come to your aid. Contact us today to schedule your air conditioning repair in Visalia, CA, or one of the surrounding communities!