Is your air conditioner turning on and off more frequently than usual? This is a behavior known as short cycling. Short cycling is more than just an annoyance, it is a sign that something’s not right with your system. Not only does short cycling reduce your home’s comfort level, but it also puts unnecessary strain on your air conditioner, increases your energy bills, and can lead to premature system failure if left unresolved. Absolute P&M Services will take a look at what causes short cycling and what you can do to fix it.

What is Short Cycling?

Short cycling occurs when your air conditioner starts up, runs for only a brief period usually less than 10 minutes, and then shuts down only to restart again shortly after. This rapid on-and-off cycle prevents your system from completing a full cooling cycle, which affects efficiency and comfort.

Common Causes of AC Short Cycling

Oversized Air Conditioner: If your air conditioner unit is too powerful for your home, it will cool the space too quickly and shut off before properly dehumidifying the air. This might sound like a good thing, but this actually leads to inefficient cooling, high humidity, and short cycling. Have an HVAC professional assess whether or not your unit is properly sized for your home. If it’s too large, replacement may be necessary.
Low Refrigerant Levels: Refrigerant is essential for absorbing and transferring heat. If your system has a leak or is low on refrigerant, it can cause pressure imbalances and lead to short cycling. Contact an HVAC technician to check for leaks, repair them, and recharge the refrigerant if needed.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters: Restricted airflow caused by dirty air filters can cause the system to overheat and shut down prematurely. This repeated overheating forces the air conditioner to turn on and off frequently. Check and replace your air filters every 1 to 3 months, depending on use and environmental factors like pets or dust.
Thermostat Problems: A faulty or poorly placed thermostat can send incorrect signals to your air conditioner system, causing it to cycle inconsistently. For example, if the thermostat is placed near a vent or in direct sunlight, it may misread the actual temperature of the home. Make sure your thermostat is installed in a central location away from direct sunlight or drafts. If it’s malfunctioning, consider replacing it or upgrading to a smart thermostat.
Electrical or Control Board Issues: Faulty relays, wiring issues, or a malfunctioning control board can disrupt communication between the thermostat and the compressor, leading to irregular cycling. These are technical issues that should be diagnosed and repaired by a licensed HVAC technician.
Frozen Evaporator Coils: When the evaporator coils freeze often due to low refrigerant or poor airflow the system may shut down prematurely. Once the unit thaws, it restarts, only to freeze again, repeating the cycle. Turn off your air conditioner and let the coils thaw. Replace the air filter and schedule a professional inspection to determine the cause of freezing.

Central Air Conditioning Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas

If your air conditioner is short cycling, don’t wait for it to break down completely. Contact Absolute P&M Services and schedule our services today.