AC Unit Keeps Turning On and Off? Here’s 5 Reasons Why

If you’ve noticed that your AC unit keeps turning on and off, it’s likely that it’s short cycling. Having an AC that is constantly malfunctioning isn’t just frustrating but it can also drive up your energy bills. While short cycling can have many causes, it also comes with a range of possible solutions. 

Let’s take a look at five reasons why your unit may be short cycling and explore how to fix it: 

So, What Is Short Cycling?

Short cycling can happen when your AC unit or furnace turns on and off before it’s able to regulate your home’s temperature. Not only does short cycling make your home uncomfortable, but it also reduces your unit’s efficiency. 

When your AC unit works harder than it should, it can use more energy, which drives up your monthly bills. Plus, short cycling can put significant wear and tear on your entire HVAC system, which can lead to costly repairs in the future. 

Potential Causes of Short Cycling and How To Fix It

#1 Clogged Air Filters 

When air filters have too much dirt and dust, they can restrict airflow and put pressure on your unit. If your AC is forced to work too hard, it can overheat, triggering a safety mechanism that automatically turns off your unit. As a result, short cycling can occur. 

Replacing your air filters regularly can prevent your unit from overheating and improve airflow. This not only prevents short cycling, but it can also make your home feel more comfortable and lower your monthly energy use.

#2 Dirty Evaporator Coil

Similar to clogged air filters, restricted airflow can also cause problems with your evaporator coils. When airflow is restricted, the coils can’t absorb the warm air that passes over them. 

Because of this, condensation forms on the coils, which eventually causes them to freeze over. When evaporator coils freeze, they force the AC to shut down. However, once the coils thaw, the system turns back on, which can lead to short cycling. 

Getting your evaporator coils regularly cleaned can stop short cycling and prevent it from occurring down the road. This helps your system run more efficiently, which saves on future repairs and replacements for worn-down parts.

#3 Blocked Vents and Registers

Another way that airflow can become restricted is when it’s being blocked by vents and registers, putting added stress on your unit and forcing a shut down. However, shutdowns can result from both overheating and freezing evaporator coils. To prevent unit shut offs, it’s important to keep your vents and registers open, even if they’re in rooms you're not using. 

This can improve airflow and protect your AC unit from unnecessary wear. Also, it’s very important to move any furniture that's blocking your vents and registers. Just like a closed vent, airflow becomes restricted when large pieces of furniture cover it. Keeping proper airflow will not only keep your home cooler, but it will also improve overall efficiency. 

#4 Refrigerant Leaks

When your AC unit has a refrigerant leak, it makes it harder for your unit to keep your home cool, which causes it to overheat and short cycle. Refrigerant leaks not only reduce AC efficiency but also pose health concerns if inhaled. Having an HVAC technician address the leak will not only improve efficiency but also prevent others from coming in contact with toxic chemicals.

#5 Improperly Sized Unit 

If your AC unit is too big, it will cool the space too quickly, causing it to shut off before completing a full cycle. On the other hand, an undersized AC may struggle to reach the set temperature, running constantly and placing unnecessary strain on the components. 

Both situations reduce efficiency, shorten the unit’s lifespan and can lead to higher energy bills. If this is the case, an HVAC technician will have to diagnose the problem and install a correctly-sized unit to fix the short-cycling. 

How Can I Prevent Short Cycling in the Future?

Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent short cycling from returning. By regularly maintaining your system and having an expert check it at least twice a year, you can address any underlying problems before they worsen. Taking these steps can enhance efficiency and considerably extend the life of your HVAC system. 

Looking for HVAC Professionals? Call Our Team at C&G Today!

If you're a homeowner looking for HVAC professionals, our technicians at C&G Heating & Air Conditioning can help! Based in Smiths Station, we proudly serve communities along the Alabama-Georgia border, including Phenix City, Auburn, Opelika and Columbus. 

From routine maintenance to repairs and installation, we’re committed to delivering dependable service that keeps your home comfortable year after year. Call our team today at 334-489-3329 for a free estimate. To explore our other services, including heating repair and maintenance, click the link here.