If you have noticed your air conditioner turning on and off more frequently than usual, it might be short-cycling. This means your air conditioner unit is starting a cooling cycle but shutting off before the cycle is complete and then turning back on again soon after. Not only is this frustrating, but it can also reduce comfort, increase energy bills, and put serious wear and tear on your system. Absolute P&M Services would like to explore the most common causes of air conditioner short-cycling, what it means for your system, and how you can fix it before more damage is done.

What is Short-Cycling?

Short-cycling occurs when your air conditioner does not complete a full cooling cycle. Typically, your air conditioner should run long enough to bring the indoor temperature to the thermostat setting, then shut off until the temperature rises again. When short-cycling happens, your unit:
• Runs for only a few minutes
• Shuts off abruptly
• Starts back up again in a short time
• Repeats the cycle continuously
This constant on-and-off pattern is not only inefficient, it can overwork the compressor, one of the most expensive parts to replace.

Common Causes of Short-Cycling

Oversized Air Conditioner – If your air conditioner unit is too powerful for your home’s square footage, it may cool the air too quickly and shut off before properly dehumidifying the space. This results in short cycles and an uncomfortable, clammy environment. A professional HVAC technician can perform a load calculation to determine if your unit is appropriately sized. If it’s too large, replacing it with a right-sized system is the best fix.
Dirty Air Filters – A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing your system to overheat and shut off prematurely to protect itself. This is one of the easiest and most common causes of short-cycling. Replace or clean your air filters every 1 to 3 months to ensure smooth airflow and system efficiency.
Low Refrigerant Levels – If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant (due to a leak or undercharging), it can’t properly cool the air. The system may short-cycle as a result of abnormal pressure within the coils. A technician can check refrigerant levels, find and repair any leaks, and recharge the system.
Frozen Evaporator Coils – When the evaporator coils freeze, your system struggles to move air, causing it to overheat and short-cycle. Freezing can be caused by restricted air flow, low refrigerant, or dirty coils. Turn off your air conditioner to let it thaw, check for airflow obstructions, and call a technician to inspect for deeper issues.
Electrical Issues – Loose wires, corroded connections, or a failing capacitor can lead to irregular air conditioner behavior and short-cycling. Electrical issues are serious and should be handled by professionals only. Have an HVAC technician inspect your unit’s electrical components and perform any necessary repairs.

Air Conditioner, Furnace & Boiler Heating Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas

If changing your air filter or checking your thermostat placement does not fix the issue, it’s time to contact a certified HVAC technician. Diagnosing and resolving short-cycling quickly can save you from larger, more expensive problems down the road. When your air conditioner is short-cycling, do not wait until it breaks down. Contact Absolute P&M Services and schedule our services today.