Your furnace keeps your you cozy during the harsh winter months, so it’s frustrating when something is off. One common complaint is a furnace that continuously switches on and turns off again. This operating error is referred to as short cycling. It overworks your furnace and could lead to expensive repairs or even earlier than normal replacement.
Short cycling can be the result of for varying reasons. Before you book furnace repair, read about the possible causes and how to fix the issue.
1. Dirty Air Filter
The HVAC filter traps airborne dust, hair and other debris that could damage the furnace. If you don’t replace the filter frequently, it can get filthy and decrease the airflow. When this happens, a safety mechanism turns off the furnace to stop overheating. Pull Out the filter, and if it’s dirty, replace it. From now on, install a new filter every 30 to 90 days to keep your furnace from short cycling.
2. Obstructed Air Vents
A dirty filter isn’t the only thing that can reduce airflow and overheat your furnace. Walk around your home and check for shut or crowded air vents. For recommended system balance and performance, keep all registers open, even in empty rooms.
3. Dirty Blower Wheel
The furnace blower uses blades that move air through the ductwork. If they are dirty, the air won’t move correctly, causing overheating and short cycling. Routinely replacing the filter is the best approach to stop a dirty blower wheel. If the blades are already dirty, book furnace maintenance to have them cleaned.
4. Faulty Thermostat
Check your thermostat next. This is the cortex of your HVAC system and gives the furnace instructions on what to do. Double-check the thermostat is set to heating mode and auto fan with the desired temperature displayed on the screen. Try changing the batteries. Also, check whether the thermostat is in full sunlight or near a heat source that could influence the temperature reading. If you have a smart thermostat, go to the manufacturer’s site for troubleshooting instructions.
5. Sooty Flame Sensor
The flame sensor is responsible for turning off the gas valve when no burner flame on. The sensor can’t find the flame if it’s coated in soot, so the gas shuts off sooner and the furnace shuts down. Leave the job of cleaning a sooty flame sensor to an Expert like Matz-Rightway.
6. Oversized Furnace
When it comes to HVAC equipment, larger isn’t always better. A bigger system warms up your home too fast, leading to uncomfortable temperature swings and short cycling. The only way to fix this issue is to schedule new furnace installation.
If you go through the solutions we went over here and you’re still having problems, it’s time to contact the pros at Matz-Rightway. We’ll examine the situation, figure out the cause, and perform the necessary service. Our goal is to restore indoor comfort, energy efficiency and reliable furnace performance for the rest of the season. And our work is upheld by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more information about furnace short cycling, or to request HVAC repair, reach us at 631-406-9220 right away!
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*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.