Identifying the Common Causes of Short Cycling

You should always schedule heater repair in Eastvale, CA, if your furnace makes unusual noises, emits strange odors, or fails to heat your home evenly. But what if your heat turns on and off constantly? This issue, known as short cycling, affects countless homeowners. 

Chill Factor Cooling & Heating is your local expert at fixing furnace short cycling. However, there are several possible causes that we must first rule out. Once we diagnose the underlying cause of your heating issue, we can provide a long-lasting solution. 

What Causes Heater Short Cycling? 

Both furnaces and energy-efficient heat pumps can experience short cycling. This not only affects the equipment’s performance but also impacts your personal comfort. How can you stay warm when your heater has other plans?

Check out some common issues that lead to short cycling below. Have a licensed technician inspect your system to diagnose the underlying issue and make the necessary repairs. 

1. A Faulty Thermostat

When troubleshooting HVAC equipment, technicians typically begin by checking thermostat settings. For example, an incorrect setting could cause the heater to blow cool air throughout your home, leaving you shivering and uncomfortable. 

If your heat turns on and off frequently, three possible thermostat problems may be responsible:

• Old wiring: You might not get accurate thermostat readings if the wiring is damaged or outdated. 
• Dying batteries: Replace the batteries to see if it helps with your heating cycles. 
• Improper placement: A thermostat that’s too close to a heat source may quickly yield a higher temperature, causing the system to shut off.

2. Dirty Air Filters

Airflow restriction can cause a host of problems for home heating systems. Perhaps the biggest cause of restricted airflow is a clogged air filter.

As dirt and debris collect inside the filter, the furnace must work harder to distribute heat through your vents. The system may overheat, and you could face a frustrating cycle of the heat constantly turning on and off. A dirty air filter may not seem like a significant issue, but it can quickly impact the overall performance of your entire system. 

Experts recommend replacing HVAC filters every 30 to 90 days. Finding the right replacement schedule for your home depends on a few factors, including:

• Household size: Homes with more occupants tend to generate more filter-clogging dirt and allergens. 
• Pets: Consider frequent filter replacements if you have pets that shed fur and dander, as this can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the filter over time.
• Smoking: Smoking inside the house will cause the filter to become dirty more quickly. 

If your heat turns on and off with a clean filter and an accurate thermostat, technicians must explore other possible causes. 

3. High Limit Switch Triggers

Unlike a heat pump, which transfers heat via refrigerant, furnaces produce heat from fuel. The internal components can get extremely hot during the process. To prevent overheating, the equipment features a high limit switch. 

This safety feature will automatically shut down the combustion process if the internal temperature exceeds a certain threshold. Once the temperature cools back down, the system may kick on once again. The cycle will repeat itself if there’s some type of malfunction triggering the high limit switch. 

Have a professional technician inspect the equipment to confirm if there is a mechanical problem. They will assess the heat exchanger, flame sensor, and other key components. Depending on the cause, your furnace may need extensive repairs. 

You may even consider replacing the equipment if it’s experiencing problems and nearing the end of its lifespan. By upgrading your outdated system to a newer model, you’ll enjoy increased energy efficiency and improved performance. 

4. Oversized Furnace

“My heat turns on and off constantly, but my furnace is brand-new. Why is this happening?” 

While upgrading your furnace has its advantages, you may experience short cycling if the unit is too large for your home. An oversized furnace can heat your home quickly, but it may suddenly shut off, so you’ll need to select one that’s the proper size. 

Discuss your options with a knowledgeable technician before making a decision. 

Stay Comfortable With Chill Factor Cooling & Heating

While there’s never a good time for your heater to malfunction, anytime is a good time to schedule a checkup. Ensure your heating system can withstand the strain with regular maintenance from Chill Factor Cooling & Heating. When problems arise during the chilly winter months, we’re available 24/7. 

Reach out to our team at the first sign of trouble. Connect with us online or call (951) 433-7053 to request a service.