During the hot Newark summer, your air conditioner should be a steady source of comfort. But if it’s switching on and off frequently—sometimes within just a few minutes—you might be dealing with an issue called short cycling. This isn’t just annoying; it can also be a sign that something’s wrong with your system.
Short cycling can lead to inefficient cooling, higher energy bills, and even premature system failure. Aire Serv of Newark is here to explain what causes short cycling, what it means for your HVAC system, and how to fix it before the problem gets worse.
What Is Short Cycling?
Short cycling happens when your air conditioner turns on, runs briefly, and then shuts off—only to turn back on again shortly after. Ideally, an AC system should run in cycles of about 10 to 15 minutes before shutting off, depending on outdoor temperatures and your indoor thermostat setting.
When your AC can't complete a full cooling cycle, it leads to inconsistent indoor temperatures and can place a major strain on the unit’s components.
Common Causes of Short Cycling
1. An Oversized AC Unit
If your air conditioner is too powerful for the square footage of your home, it may cool the space too quickly and shut off before completing a full cycle. While that might sound efficient, it actually leads to poor humidity control, wear and tear, and uneven cooling.
What to Do: Have a professional HVAC technician evaluate your system size. Aire Serv of Newark can determine whether your unit is correctly matched to your home’s needs.
2. Dirty Air Filters
A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your system to overheat and shut down prematurely. When the system cools down, it restarts—only to repeat the same cycle again.
Fix It: Check your air filter monthly during the summer and replace it every 30 to 60 days, depending on use and whether you have pets or allergy concerns.
3. Low Refrigerant Levels
Refrigerant is essential for the cooling process. If your system is low on refrigerant due to a leak or other issue, it can’t effectively remove heat, which causes it to short cycle as it struggles to meet your thermostat’s demands.
What to Do: Call a professional to inspect your system for leaks and recharge the refrigerant safely.
4. Faulty Thermostat Placement or Wiring
If your thermostat is placed in direct sunlight, near a vent, or in a drafty area, it can misread the temperature and cause your AC to cycle improperly. Faulty wiring or calibration can also lead to inconsistent signals being sent to your unit.
Solution: Ensure your thermostat is located in a central, shaded location away from heat sources. If needed, Aire Serv of Newark can relocate or recalibrate it for more accurate perform
5. Frozen Evaporator Coils
Ice on your coils can block proper airflow and cause the system to shut off unexpectedly. This is usually due to airflow restrictions or refrigerant issues.
Fix It: Turn off your system to allow the coils to thaw and schedule professional maintenance to identify the underlying issue.
Why It’s Important to Address Short Cycling Quickly
Short cycling isn’t just an inconvenience. If left unresolved, it can lead to:
- Higher energy bills
- Increased wear on system components
- Reduced comfort and uneven cooling
- Shortened system lifespan
- More frequent (and expensive) repairs
Professional Solutions from Aire Serv of Newark
When you’re dealing with short cycling, the best course of action is to schedule an inspection. Our certified technicians will assess your HVAC system thoroughly, identify the root cause of the issue, and recommend the most effective solution—whether it’s a repair, maintenance, or a system upgrade.
We’ll also provide preventive guidance to help ensure your AC runs efficiently and reliably throughout the hot months ahead.
Preventive Tips to Avoid Short Cycling
- Schedule annual professional maintenance
- Replace air filters regularly
- Keep vents unblocked and clean
- Upgrade your thermostat if needed
- Avoid setting your thermostat too low during heatwaves
Don’t Let Short Cycling Ruin Your Summer Comfort
If your AC is turning on and off more than it should, don’t wait for the issue to escalate. Aire Serv of Newark is your local expert for diagnosing and solving AC short cycling—and all your cooling concerns.
Call today to schedule a service appointment and get your system running the way it should.
