With the frigid temperatures of winter fast approaching, you must have a functioning furnace to keep your house warm and cozy. Unfortunately, heating systems that haven’t been used or serviced in months may experience short cycling, which is problematic as the weather gets colder. The following guide discusses this issue, its causes, and when to call for furnace repairs.

About Short Cycling

Short cycling occurs when the furnace turns on and off quickly. The thermostat tells the heater when to click on, but the system promptly shuts off. Average-sized furnaces should cut off about three to eight times an hour, depending on temperatures and the size of the house. However, if the heater only stays on for a minute or two each time, it’s likely short cycling. This issue forces the system to consume too much energy and can cause premature wear and tear if it isn’t addressed.

Causes of Short Cycling

Several factors can contribute to short cycling. For instance, the size of the furnace can be too big for your house. Oversized heating systems pull a lot of electricity, which can lead to uneven warm air distribution. Cold spots trigger the furnace to fire back on. If your furnace isn’t the appropriate size, you may need a replacement to improve efficiency.

Another cause is an overheated furnace. Because it’s overheated, the heating system quickly shuts down to protect itself from damage. Weak airflow from dirty or clogged vents, ducts, or filters is a common reason for overheating furnaces. This situation  requires immediate furnace repairs. Excessive heat can crack the heat exchanger and leak deadly carbon monoxide gas into the house.

A faulty thermostat is another reason why furnaces short-cycle. A malfunction could trigger the heating system to turn on and off prematurely. This usually happens when the faulty thermostat misreads the temperature within a room and forces the furnace to begin and cease operating on a loop. Replacing the unit may fix this problem and allow your heating system to function correctly.

For professional furnace repairs and installation, look no further than Kevin’s Plumbing & Heating. For over 40 years, this HVAC contractor has served clients throughout Archbold, OH, and the surrounding areas. Using the latest technology and years of industry experience, their certified technicians will find affordable solutions to your heating and cooling problems. Call (419) 445-4715 to request an estimate today. You can also visit them online to learn more about their plumbing and HVAC services.