What is AC Short Cycling? & How to Avoid It

What is AC Short Cycling

Have you been experiencing air conditioner problems? Perhaps you have noticed that your utility bills are way too high, or maybe the air conditioner unit is just not at its optimum performance. If you are having any of these problems, you could be experiencing AC short cycling. This means that the air conditioner is not running at optimum effectiveness and efficiency. Because AC short cycling can end up costing you a lot of extra money in operating costs, not to mention the discomfort, it is important to identify the cause of the AC short cycling so that you are able to correctly deal with it.

If you are experiencing AC short cycling or any other HVAC related issues at your St. Louis area home or business, Galmiche & Sons can help. With highly skilled and trained technicians, we have proved ourselves over the past years as the best HVAC Company in St. Louis. Contact us today by calling at 314-993-1110 to have all your heating & air conditioning issues resolved.

What are the Causes of AC Short Cycling?

AC short cycling occurs when the air conditioner does not run for a certain minimum time before it begins another cycle. In most cases, the AC should run for at least 10 minutes before shutting down and beginning a new cycle. AC short cycling causes inefficient and inadequate cooling and excess wear and tear to certain parts of the machine, such as the compressor.

Causes for AC Short Cycling

So, what are the causes of AC short cycling?

  • Insufficient Airflow – Airflow throughout the HVAC system needs to be at a certain specification. However, as a result of clogged air filters or other damage to the HVAC system, airflow may fall below the specified standards. In the event that this happens, then AC short cycling is likely to follow. This is because the system will quickly cycle off any time it is turned on. To get rid of AC short cycling as a result of airflow problems, you can try replacing or cleaning the filter. If you still experience problems, you will need to contact a professional technician.
  • Refrigerant Leaks – Refrigerant leaks in the HVAC system can also lead to AC short cycling. The air conditioner cannot properly function with low refrigerant. Therefore, after being turned on, a sensor will detect low refrigerant levels in the HVAC system and immediately shut it down to prevent damage to the compressor. A qualified technician can quickly detect refrigerant leaks and restore it to the right levels.
  • Large BTU Capacity – When installing an HVAC system, the technician should determine the cooling requirements of the house and use that to match an AC unit with the right BTU capacity. An improper determination of the capacity may have the AC producing too much cooling rapidly which results in AC short cycling.

Contact Galmiche & Sons for Help with AC Short Cycling  in St. Louis

If your air conditioner is short cycling, it means that you and your family are not comfortable in the house, but there is no need to suffer. A professional HVAC technician can determine the cause of the issue and have the issue resolved.

At Galmiche & Sons, our professional technicians are specifically trained to handle AC short cycling as well as any other heating & air conditioning problems. Call us today at 314-993-1110 to learn more and to get the best HVAC services in St. Louis!

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