360-499-6604 When your air conditioner repeatedly turns on and off in short succession, this is called short cycling. Short cycling will increase your energy bills, and it usually indicates a larger problem within your unit. If you ignore the issue, it could lead to serious damage and the need for replacement.
This guide explores the most common reasons your air conditioner keeps turning on and off.
9 Reasons Your AC Keeps Turning On and Off
Low Refrigerant
When the refrigerant level in your air conditioner is low, it activates the low-pressure control of the compressor, causing it to turn off.
When the pressure rises and your AC starts up again, this creates short cycling. Low refrigerant levels usually indicate a leak. In most cases, replacing an evaporator coil or the refrigerant line will stop the leak.
Frozen Evaporator Coils
Certain air conditioning issues, like restricted airflow and refrigerant leaks, can cause your evaporator coils to freeze. When this happens, your AC unit will shut off and then restart once the ice has melted. If this happens multiple times, you’ll notice short cycling. To address this problem, examine your outdoor unit for any ice accumulation. If it’s frozen, consult an HVAC specialist for assistance.
Compressor Issues
When a compressor begins to fail, your AC is more likely to overheat. This overheating can lead to frequent short cycling. A defective compressor can also cause your AC’s components to wear out faster than normal. To address this issue, reach out to a local HVAC expert for help replacing the compressor.
Dirty Condenser Coil
Condenser coils work to effectively expel heat from your home. If you have neglected AC maintenance for a long time, your condenser coils may be dirty. When the condenser coils are dirty, heat is unable to escape, and your system will overheat and begin short cycling. Scheduling AC maintenance will typically fix this problem.
Thermostat Location
Your air conditioner relies on the thermostat as its sensor, receiving signals to start the cooling process. If the thermostat is near a window or vent, it may send inaccurate temperature readings to your air conditioner. The confusion caused by this incorrect reading can lead to short cycling. Be sure your thermostat is located in a central location away from direct sunlight and vents.
Dirty Air Filter
If you don’t change your air conditioner’s air filter regularly, it can become dirty and even clogged. A dirty filter blocks the flow of air, leading to frozen coils and short cycling. Make sure to change your filter at least every 3 months to avoid this issue.
Clogged Drain Line
Most air conditioning systems are equipped with a “float switch” that shuts off the AC system when the drain line fails to drain properly. If you set your thermostat to “Auto” and the air is still not circulating, the drain line may be blocked. If you’re not sure how to unclog the drain line, it’s best to ask a local HVAC professional for help.
Oversized Air Conditioner
If your home is equipped with an oversized air conditioning unit, it can lead to short cycling. This occurs when the unit cools your home too quickly, resulting in frequent shutdowns and startups. As a consequence, you may notice uneven temperature distribution in your home, with certain areas being too hot or too cold. Additionally, you may experience an increase in your energy bills. Installing a more appropriately sized unit will usually fix the problem.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues can also lead to short cycling. Issues with the capacitor, electric cable, or electrical connections inside the AC unit can cause the unit to turn on and off frequently.
Diagnosing electrical faults can be challenging and potentially hazardous. It is recommended to reach out to an experienced HVAC technician to resolve the issue.
Fix Short Cycling Issues Once and For All
If you notice your air conditioner short cycling, turn to the HVAC experts at G&G Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team has years of experience identifying all types of AC issues. Once we’ve diagnosed the problem, we’ll help you make an informed decision about repair or replacement. We’re the most trusted choice for AC installation in Olympia!
