Is your AC turning on and off again? It’s definitely not normal.
Short-cycling occurs when your AC turns on and off, over and over, without going through a proper cooling cycle. In the short-term, short-cycling will stop your home from getting cooler. In the long-term, you’re looking at costly repairs and possibly even replacement.
The bad news is that short-cycling can have a profound effect on your next energy bill. The good news, though, is that the earlier you take care of the problem, the better off you’ll be.
Keep reading to find out why short-cycling is more than just an annoyance.
It’s Energy Inefficient
When working properly, your air conditioner is supposed to go through long cycles that gradually cool your room down to the temperature displayed on your thermostat. Longer cycles allow the rooms in your home to fill with enough cold air to sustain your desired temperature.
To maximize efficiency, the process is meant to be slow and thorough. Short-cycling will put your unit in a constant battle between “too cold” and “too warm,” meaning it can never quite settle on your thermostat’s settings. If it keeps up for long, you’ll see an increase on your next energy bill.
It Means Your AC Is Broken
We hate to be the ones to tell you, but there’s no way around it: short-cycling means your air conditioner is broken. But before you try inspecting the unit yourself, you should know that the reason it’s broken can range from a problem with the thermostat to the ductwork.
The best and quickest way to give yourself peace of mind is by calling for professional AC repair in Lake City, FL. Even if you do find the cause of the problem on your own, you won’t be able to fix it by yourself. The causes of short-cycling will require immediate attention, so don’t delay.
Not Fixing It Means Early Replacement
If you let your unit short cycle for long periods of time, the unit’s condition will only get worse. This can happen for two different reasons at the same time.
The first reason involves the issue of the short cycling itself. The unit will force itself to repeat the start-up cycle several times over, and that continuous work will begin to put strain on your system. Fans, bearings, and other components will wear out and cause more issues.
The second reason involves the root cause of the short cycling. If your AC has a refrigerant leak, for example, you’ll force the compressor to work overtime. If not remedied soon, the compressor will burn out and need replacement.
What Should You Do about Short-Cycling?
First off, you should check your air filter. If clogged, replace it with a brand new one or take note of it. At the very least, you’ll have helped eliminate one of the most common reasons for short-cycling.
Next, you’ll need to call a professional right away. Even with a new air filter, only a professional do a thorough inspection of your AC. At Touchstone Heating and Air, we understand that issues like these can’t wait. We’re available 24 hours a day to answer your calls.
Contact Touchstone Heating and Air 24/7 for exceptional customer service!