Why Is My Air Conditioner Running In Short Bursts?

June 26, 2023

image-of-homeowner-feeling-hot-due-to-ac-short-cycling

Homeowners depend on air conditioning to feel comfortable during the hot summer months. Sensors in the unit detect if the ambient temperature is higher than the thermostat settings. If it is, the air conditioner starts the cooling cycle until the set temperature is reached. A cooling cycle should occur slowly and steadily. However, if your air conditioner runs in short bursts, your air conditioner is dealing with a short cycling issue. This problem can result in several issues unless you address it right away. Keep reading to learn the causes and effects of AC short cycling and what can be done to prevent it.

Explore Our HVAC Services Call To Schedule A Free, In-Home Estimate

Common Causes Of Air Conditioner Short Cycling

Contents

1 Common Causes Of Air Conditioner Short Cycling
2 Reasons To Avoid Air Conditioner Short Cycling
3 Call Columbus Energies For Your Air Conditioning Requirements

Here are several common reasons for AC short cycling:

Oversized Air Conditioning Unit

Having a bigger air conditioner isn’t always better. An HVAC unit that’s too powerful will push high amounts of cold air throughout your home, reaching the thermostat setting quickly and causing it to shut down immediately. Unfortunately, a short cycle cannot properly reduce indoor humidity. The unit will not run long enough to tackle this concern. It also results in a large amount of energy consumption. An oversized air conditioner also results in inconsistent cooling between different areas of the home.

Clogged HVAC Air Filters

removing dirty HVAC filter for home central air conditioning system

Air filters need to be checked constantly and replaced regularly. You should never let it get too dirty as it will block the airflow that the system needs. As a result, the unit works harder to compensate for the reduced airflow. This issue stresses out the compressor and blower until they overheat. This leads to short cycling and may eventually cause the system to break down.

Habitually replace the filters as recommended in the equipment manual. However, it is crucial to remember that some homes must have their filters replaced more frequently. A general rule is to check the filter once a month and change it as needed.

Call Today: (508) 674-1492

Frozen Evaporator Coils

Evaporator coils are tasked with absorbing the heat inside the house. A unit with frozen or dirty coils cannot work properly. A system that exhibits this issue will inevitably lead to overheating, causing the system to shut off automatically. It does this as a way to prevent it from getting damaged further before reaching the set temperature.

Different mechanical problems can cause this. Do not let the short cycling problem persist. Homeowners should shut down the air conditioner completely to let the ice thaw. Call an HVAC professional to help you if the coil freezes again.

Explore Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule A Free Estimate

Low Air Conditioner Refrigerant Levels

image of hvac contractor performing refrigerant refill on air conditioner

The refrigerant is the air conditioner‘s lifeblood. There should be a sufficient amount of coolant in the system to circulate and transfer heat from the inside of the home to the outside. A leak can deplete the refrigerant, forcing the air conditioning unit to work harder than necessary to cool your home. As a result, the components are stressed out until short cycling happens as a way to compensate.

HVAC contractors can examine the refrigerant levels and determine if there’s a leak or not. They can find the source of the leak and repair it right away. They can also add more refrigerant to the system so that it works normally again.

Explore Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule A Free Estimate

Air Conditioner Electrical Issues

Sometimes, faulty wiring and control boards can cause a short cycling air conditioner. The air conditioner may not be getting sufficient power due to electrical issues. It may try to start but falter. This is a complicated and dangerous issue for homeowners to resolve on their own. It is best to hire HVAC technicians to check the air conditioner and assess if this is causing short cycling. They can resolve any wiring and control board issues if needed.

Poor Thermostat Placement

image of homeowner adjusting thermostat that controls hvac system

Short cycling may also happen if the thermostat is placed in an incorrect location in your home. Check if it is located close to a window where direct sunlight streams through or another heat source. The room may be quite cool, but the sensors may be tricked into detecting that the space is hot because it gets a lot of sun. It will go into action and shut off promptly. The thermostat may need to be shielded or placed in a more fitting spot for this to stop.

Reasons To Avoid Air Conditioner Short Cycling

Listed below are several reasons to prevent air conditioner short cycling.

AC Equipment Damage

Air conditioners aren’t designed to switch on and off in short bursts. This significantly stresses the components of the system, leading to faster wear and tear. This can cause equipment breakdown over time. Homeowners will have to replace components prematurely. The system will also suffer from a diminished lifespan.

Soaring Energy Bill

image of homeowner paying bills and air conditioning costs

Short cycling causes the air conditioner to work harder than it should. It also uses more energy than normal. The system already consumes a significant amount of energy when operating normally, so this inefficiency issue is unwelcome. Homeowners may notice a spike in their energy expenses. Do not neglect this air conditioning problem, as it can be expensive.

Learn More About Our Air Conditioning Services Call To Schedule A Consultation

Inconsistent Room Temperatures

Rooms in your home may vary in temperature. You may feel that some rooms are quite warm while others are cold. Short bursts mean the air cannot circulate correctly. This can make it difficult for occupants who need to study or work in warm spots during the summer.

Get Started - Call Columbus Energies Today

Conclusion

Short cycling is a big air conditioning problem. It causes significant harm to the system and can be expensive to repair. Avoid it from happening at the onset by hiring a reliable HVAC technician who can choose the right air conditioner size and install the system properly. Book annual maintenance as this will also help determine any potential issues quickly so they can be dealt with as soon as possible. Refrigerant leaks, dirty coils, and electrical issues can be resolved before they trigger short cycling.

Call Columbus Energies For Your Air Conditioning Requirements

For quality heating and cooling services in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region, call Columbus Energies. Our team of experts consists of the best professionally certified technicians who can conduct excellent HVAC services, like air conditioner tune-ups, boiler replacements, mini-split repairs, and more. All our techs have years of experience and extensive knowledge to service your HVAC system promptly and correctly.

Columbus Energies offer the region’s most affordable and superior heating and cooling service costs. The maintenance services we provide can improve comfort, enhance indoor air quality, increase energy efficiency, and reduce home cooling bills. If you need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can suggest the best home solution while staying within your budget. To schedule an air conditioner tune-up or service appointment, call Columbus Energies today. All our work is guaranteed to ensure your satisfaction. Call now and receive a free, in-home estimate.

Click Here To Learn About Our Heating & Cooling Services Call Now: (508) 674-1492

Contact us now by calling (508) 674-1492 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists! Click the link to view our HVAC service area.

HVAC expert checking home central AC unit

Seven HVAC Tips For A Smooth Transition From Winter To Spring

April 15, 2024

$HVAC units play a pivotal role in ensuring the comfort and safety of modern building environments. Yet, these indispensable systems are not immune to the challenges of power surges. Such surges, frequently resulting from events like lightning strikes, power outages, or fluctuations in the electrical grid, can unleash a rapid influx of electrical current. This sudden surge can inflict severe damage on vital components of the HVAC system, including the compressor, fan motor, and control board. The repercussions of such damage can range from expensive repairs to the necessity of replacing the entire HVAC unit. Given these risks, implementing surge protectors and adhering to electrical safety best practices to safeguard HVAC systems effectively is paramount. Is Your HVAC System Secured Against Power Surges? Pondering over protecting your HVAC system against power surges often indicates a need for proactive measures. Seek the expertise of a seasoned HVAC technician who is ready to evaluate and enhance your system's resilience against power surges. Their guidance and recommendations will ensure that your HVAC system is well-prepared to withstand the challenges posed by unexpected power surges and outages. Understanding Power Surges: What Are They? A power surge represents an abrupt spike in electrical voltage, surpassing the standard levels within a power supply system. These surges can manifest for various reasons, including sudden disruptions in the electrical current flow. Common triggers for these surges include events like lightning strikes, power outages, or the switching on and off of large electrical appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and elevators. Power surges, often lasting merely a fraction of a second, can nonetheless wreak significant havoc on electrical devices and appliances. The surge's excessive electrical energy overburdens and damages the sensitive electronic components within these devices, potentially leading to malfunctions or total failures. Differentiating Power Surge, Power Outage, and Brownout While power surges, power outages, and brownouts all stem from electrical power supply disturbances, they each describe distinct phenomena: Power Surge: This is a brief, intense increase in electrical voltage, due to lightning strikes, outages, or high-powered equipment. A power surge can potentially damage electronic devices and appliances hence surge protectors are essential to safeguard them from potential damage. Power Outage: This event happens when there's an interruption in the electrical power supply to a location, leading to a total loss of power. Numerous factors, such as severe weather conditions and electrical equipment failure, can trigger power outages or even planned maintenance activities. Brownout: Characterized by a reduction in voltage within the electrical power supply, a brownout manifests as dimming or flickering lights and reduced power to appliances. Causes range from high demand on the power grid to equipment malfunctions or issues within the electrical system of a specific building or area. Don't let power surges damage your HVAC system. Contact Columbus Energies now for professional surge protection solutions and ensure your system's longevity and performance! HVAC Components Vulnerable to Power Surges Here are several parts affected by power surges: HVAC Control Board Often referred to as the system's "brain," the HVAC control board is critical for communication with the thermostat. A power surge can damage this component, disrupting its function. Such damage impairs the HVAC system's ability to regulate temperature effectively, leading to insufficient heating or cooling. This can result in discomfort, especially during periods of extreme temperatures. HVAC Compressor Motor This crucial part of your HVAC system, recognizable as a box with wires protruding, plays a pivotal role in refrigerant compression. It converts low-pressure, cool refrigerant into a high-pressure, heated state. The motor, integral to the compressor, is prone to power surge damage. It consists of numerous wires that transform electrical energy into kinetic energy. A surge can cause these wires to overheat, potentially leading to combustion. Furthermore, a compromised motor affects the compressor's performance, hindering its ability to function efficiently. HVAC Capacitor This essential component, typically oval-shaped, serves as a storage unit for electrical charge, crucial for powering the electrical components in your HVAC system. Vulnerable to power surges, the capacitor can sustain damage when exposed to such events. This damage may result in operational difficulties for your HVAC system. HVAC Relay Switch This switch plays a crucial role in your HVAC system, acting to turn on or off components that require high-voltage power. A key feature of most relay switches is an electrical contactor surrounded by a coil. In the event of a voltage exceeding a specific threshold, as in a power surge, the coil is likely to burn out. This can lead to a broken circuit, causing the relay switch to malfunction. Keep your HVAC system safe from power surges with Columbus Energies' comprehensive surge protection services. Reach out to us today for peace of mind and reliable protection! Preventing Power Surge Damage to Your HVAC System Power surges pose a severe risk to HVAC systems, potentially leading to expensive repairs or replacements. Listed below are several tips to protect your HVAC system from power surge damage: Install Surge Protectors: Placing surge protectors on your HVAC unit and electrical panels offers crucial defense against unexpected power surges. These devices act as a barrier, safeguarding your system. Unplug Appliances During Storms: As a precaution, disconnect your HVAC system and other appliances during thunderstorms or severe weather. This simple action can prevent potential damage from lightning-induced surges. Utilize High-Quality Wiring: Implementing top-tier wiring and components is crucial in safeguarding your HVAC system against power surge damage. For optimal safety and efficiency, it's advisable to have these elements installed by a skilled electrician. Regular HVAC Maintenance: Consistently maintaining your HVAC system is a proactive way to prevent surge-related damage. Key practices include cleaning and replacing air filters, ensuring proper refrigerant levels, and inspecting electrical connections. Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: Consider a whole-house surge protector for comprehensive protection. Installed at your main electrical panel, it shields your entire home, HVAC system included, from power surges, thus securing all your appliances. Ensure your HVAC system's safety and longevity with Columbus Energies' top-notch surge protection services. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and protect your investment! HVAC Power Surge Damage & Warranty Limitations Warranties from HVAC manufacturers typically exclude coverage for power surge damage. Relying on homeowners' insurance can be complex, as proving surge-related damage is often difficult, especially when it accumulates over time. Consequently, homeowners might find themselves responsible for expensive HVAC repairs arising from incidents like lightning strikes, overloaded electrical circuits, or appliance-related issues. Conclusion HVAC systems represent a significant investment crucial for home comfort. Proactive prevention is vital to avoid incurring high costs from power surge damages. Investing in protective measures is a wise choice compared to facing the expense of repairs or replacements. Consult trusted HVAC professionals to ensure your system is well-protected and maintained. Contact Columbus Energies for All Your HVAC Needs Columbus Energies is a premier heating and cooling service provider in Southeastern Massachusetts and the Rhode Island region. Our professionally certified technicians are highly skilled in various HVAC services, including tune-ups, repairs, installations, and replacements. Rely on our expertise for accurate and efficient servicing of your system. As a highly sought-after service provider in the region, we are always prepared to meet your HVAC needs. We pride ourselves on offering the area's most affordable heating and cooling solutions. Columbus Energies is synonymous with quality service and cost-effectiveness. lightening storm and hvac surge protection$