How Does Short Cycling Affect My Heater?
We don’t have to worry about subzero conditions and snowfall in our geographic region, but the hottest time of the year is definitely in the rear-view at this point. Daytime temperatures are falling from the 80’s into the 70’s and 60’s. Nighttime temperatures are cooler still. Long, hot summers aside, this is the time of year when we are reminded of how important our heaters in Phoenix, AZ really are.
If you notice any problems with your home heating system as we move into the cooler season, do not ignore them. Short cycling is one of the most obvious signs that trouble is brewing. Be vigilant, and let us know if your heater doesn’t seem to be running in full cycles.
What Is Short Cycling, What Causes It, and What Problems Does It Cause?
“Short cycling” is a term for the phenomenon in which your heating system starts up, runs briefly, and then shuts back down. Ideally, your heater will run longer heating cycles. If it is running only in short bursts, the condition of the system is put at risk. So too is the efficiency with which it operates. Short cycling can be caused by a few factors.
- Oversized heating systems will short cycle as they bring the temperature in the house up too quickly. That may not sound like much of a problem, but the wear and tear and efficiency issues stemming from the short cycle make it hugely disadvantageous. Any HVAC system must be properly sized for the space in which it is installed.
- Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, and that too can lead to short cycling. Heat can build up in the system, causing it to cycle off until it cools down. This is just one of the reasons why keeping clean air filters in your forced air heating system is so important.
- Faulty components, such as thermocouples or even your thermostat, could also cause short cycling. The thermostat may simply register temperatures incorrectly, while a faulty thermocouple will shut down the system as a safety precaution (even though it’s not necessary). Repairing or replacing these components may be necessary to resolve the issue.
Starting up requires more energy than running consistently, so short cycling can result in higher energy costs than you should see. Plus, the wear and tear on the system makes breakdowns and operational issues more likely. Short cycling must be stopped in short order!
Schedule your heating services with Goettl Air Conditioning.
Testimonials
What Our Customers Say About Us
Bryan Lopez, Christian Saucedo Wonderful service and kind professional techs.
Without hesitation, we highly recommend Peter with Goettl AC & Plumbing on his knowledge in describing (with photos and measurements) numerous recommended A/C repairs. Peter was professional, personable and patient describing installation of a new system. Tony, also was great to work with finalizing billing to replace to the unit's duct work. We recommend them to anyone!
Abdiel was outstanding, came in and was efficient, got done quickly and did a great job.
Richard of Goettl was thorough in his work and showed me everything he was doing. He explained why the kitchen drain was so slow and showed me video of the drain from the sink practically to the street. It was educational. He was professional, polite, and knowledgeable. I recommend Goettl for your plumbing needs.
Marcos was amazing! He really explained the work being done today! He took his time and went the extra mile. I truly appreciate his time!
Abdiel is a good Tech. He showed up on time. Very friendly and takes time to explain any issues and is very helpful in answering any questions. He represents Goettl well.
Rudy & Chris was amazing. He thoroughly explained everything and found a leak in the AC drip pan! Thank You!!
Have used Goettl several times before and always request Joe Benavides!!! Always courteous and professional. A true asset to your team
Frank M and Terron did an excellent job with explaining and giving my options on my water heater. Please use these folks
2.7.24Jay Cruz, technician, arrived on time today to service/check my ac/heating. Jay arrived timely and was friendly. Jay checked my inside unit, ceiling vents, etc and he made some recommendations. He was easy to talk to and very professional. He will be sending me an email with the recommendations and costs associated so that I can save the money to have these taken care of. I will say, no other technician has been as proficient as Jay.Yesterday, 2.6.24, I received a call from Betty. Betty was also very friendly, professional and knowledgeable. She listened to me and made recommendations and advice. By the end if the call, I felt like Betty was a friend.Thank you to Jay and Betty!Late one evening I was washing clothes. Daughter noticed water on floor under washer. I was so upset and worried about finding someone to fix the problem, whatever it was, and especially the cost. Goettl this the rescue! Namely, their employee/plumber, Chris! The next day, Chris came, found the clog in my pipes, and…voilà! We joined their $14.95 per month plan and that was all we paid for a job well done! Thank you!3.26.24Tyler Leija was great! He checked my drain pipe outside with a camera. Advised everything was clear. He checked my kitchen and master bathroom sinks and toilet. Tyler was friendly, but professional. Thank you.4.17.24Frank M arrived here on time. He was friendly and professional. He explained everything he was going to do today. He completed everything he mentioned. He provided suggestions of things that need or should be taken care of. Nothing urgent. He installed the water heater sensor in addition to other plumbing type things. He drained the water heater. He spoke to his supervisor, Terronne (sp?). Should received estimates for hvac and water heater. Thank you Frank! Great job!
Matthew was Totally professional, respectful, knowledgeable and a very kind person.He didn’t rush me and was very thorough! Thank you so much -I’m glad you were the one helping me
I am very satisfied with the drain clog/clearing work that Deonte Wilson did for me today. He was very professional and personable. He explained everything that he was doing and was very pleasant to talk to as well. The price was right and service was outstanding! Thank you!
Dad and I are thankful for your company and am comforted by the products in our home that u have so proudly taken care of on our behalf.
Roy A. was a pleasure to work with. He thoroughly and expertly explained all of the issues with my system with pictures and videos. He was transparent about the remediation options available to me and patiently reviewed each option with me. The install team, Daniel and Roy, were equally as awesome. They too were extremely knowledgeable, patient with my questions, and worked diligently to get my new unit up and running safely in one day. I couldn’t have asked for a better team.
Tyler did a great job, taking care of the plumbing problem. Great customer service, and describing the problem.
Outstanding, thorough professional service by Sam. Ensured all services were fully explained and all work well done. You can be proud to have him as a part of Goettl's service team.
