Why Is My Heat Pump in Crawfordville, FL Short Cycling?

When your heat pump in Crawfordville, FL, shuts down before it can complete a full heat transfer cycle, we call that short cycling. If you allow it to persist, short cycling can cause considerable damage to your heat pump and undermine your ability to stay comfortable this summer. Here are a few reasons why your heat pump is short cycling.

A Faulty Thermostat

The reason for your heat pump’s short cycling may lie entirely outside of the HVAC system itself. One of your thermostat’s functions is to control when your heat pump works and when it rests. If something goes wrong with the device, it may send inappropriate commands to your heat pump.

However, there’s no need to suspect your thermostat until you’ve had an HVAC technician examine your heat pump and rule out other explanations.

Dirty Filters

A set of dirty filters is among the most common of these other explanations. If too much debris accumulates on the filters, it can curtail airflow, which may force your heat pump to overwork, overheat, and shut down. To prevent this, it’s best to clean or replace the filters every one to three months.

A Malfunctioning Compressor

If your heat pump’s compressor has completely failed, the system can’t start at all. However, even if this component sustains only a small amount of damage, your heat pump may not work as well as it should. If the compressor cannot pressurize refrigerant into a condensable state, the appliance will begin short cycling.

Your heat pump’s compressor may exhibit poor performance because of a mechanical issue or an excessive accumulation of debris. HVAC technicians can resolve the latter issue during a regular tune-up, but the former will require more extensive repairs.

Once you notice your heat pump short cycling, take immediate action. Call Advanced Air Care, Heating & Cooling LLC to sign up for top-notch HVAC services in Crawfordville, FL.

Image provided by iStock