Now that winter is almost here, furnace issues can be more than just inconvenient. They can also make your home uncomfortable and can even lead to frozen or burst pipes. Furnace short cycling is one issue that causes most people to call up their heating contractor as soon as possible. Here’s what you need to know about this HVAC problem.

About Short Cycling

Furnace cycling doesn’t always indicate a serious issue; it’s usually part of normal operation. When you set the thermostat to a certain temperature, the furnace automatically shuts off when the house reaches that level. Short cycling refers to a phenomenon where HVAC equipment continually cycles on and off for no apparent reason.

This can be a problem for several reasons. Short cycling often indicates a more serious issue, and ignoring the problem can lead to more expensive problems down the line. It also increases your utility costs since the unit constantly fires on.

Why It Occurs

A heating contractor should always assess the problem, though they will likely find the culprit to be one of the following reasons.

The thermostat is the control center for your furnace. Problems can occur internally and prevent the thermostat from appropriately measuring the temperature in your home. As a result, the furnace may shut off before reaching the ideal temperature.

If your furnace is too big for your home, it can reach the ideal temperature much faster. While this seems like a positive aspect, short cycling can eventually damage the heating equipment.

Proper airflow is crucial for a furnace to function correctly. When it’s restricted, the furnace can overheat, which can trigger the system to shut down to prevent further damage. A clogged air filter or blocked air vents can restrict airflow, so keep these clean.

If you have concerns about the function of your furnace this winter, contact the skilled heating contractors at Schenerlein & Sligar, Inc., in Steubenville, OH. They’re proud to provide fast and efficient service to local customers. If it’s time for a new HVAC system, they can even install one and also offer preventative maintenance programs to ensure it continues to meet expectations. Call (740) 282-5184 to get started on your free estimate, or visit them online for the complete list of HVAC services.