Goettl Technician replacing duct filter

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

Veronica CernaVeronica Cerna
17:32 21 Mar 24
Our experience with Goettl and in particular their Inspector Nacho has exceeded our expectations. His inspection was thorough. We felt comfortable expressing our concerns and his positive response put our mind at ease. We thank him and the Goettl crew for taking care of our AC plumbing and repair needs and their support to us as customers.
Amanda RehmannAmanda Rehmann
17:23 21 Mar 24
Rudy and Chris came out and were SO helpful. They went above and beyond to help me with water damage and working with my insurance. Highly recommend!
jaime enriquejaime enrique
16:46 21 Mar 24
Robert BaylorRobert Baylor
16:42 21 Mar 24
Val CastanedaVal Castaneda
15:57 21 Mar 24
We had a stubborn clog in our shower that we were at our wits end about. Decided on calling Goettl and we’re very pleased at the service from beginning to end. Very prompt and professional. Andrew was great and explained everything and our options very clearly. We were very pleased with service today. Thank you so much!
Gerald WiestGerald Wiest
16:49 19 Mar 24
The water softener (which is outside) was ruined by the recent weather. Rudy and Chris were able to diagnose the problem and replaced the softener on same day. This was critical to avoid any plumbing problems in the house. We appreciate their professionalism and attention email to detail.
Mr crab son wakandaMr crab son wakanda
16:31 19 Mar 24
Abdiel did a very good job
Keith RobbinsKeith Robbins
16:24 19 Mar 24
Thank you Jason Cruz very professional and I sighed up for the monthly plan at just $14.95 a great value I learned so much from your vist. Saved me $130.00 yessssssss
Robert PenaRobert Pena
16:16 19 Mar 24
C J (CJ)C J (CJ)
17:42 11 Mar 24
I got a quote for over $3,000 for the last expensive water heater replacement. Way over priced. Will not be using you guys, nor recommending you either.
Gray Garland JamesGray Garland James
17:33 11 Mar 24
Roy is outstanding: professional, thorough, friendly! He understood our HVAC ducting issues and devised the appropriate solution. He was very personable and it was an absolute pleasure to work with him!
Heather HassellHeather Hassell
17:31 11 Mar 24
Chuy Flores with Goettl plumbing and Air, is an absolutely awesome professional plumbing !! If i could give him more than 5 stars i definitely would!!! Chuy is very respectable and knowledgeable in the HVAC industry and gets the job done the right way!! !!!
Desiree FraireDesiree Fraire
17:28 11 Mar 24
Jehad came to my home today and helped me to get a great system in place for my old home. We are getting an upgrade at a good price. He is a great tech.
Marilyn AndersonMarilyn Anderson
17:23 11 Mar 24
Roy was professional and knowledgeable about what needed to be done. Service was performed quickly and efficiently with no surprises.
Ashley RogersAshley Rogers
23:25 08 Mar 24
We had Goettl come out and service our ac units.The Billy McDermott, the technician. Was great. He explained the process and then did the work. I would recommend Goettl and Billy!
Angelia HahnAngelia Hahn
17:58 08 Mar 24
Peter was awesome and explain everything very well.
Thomas FraustoThomas Frausto
16:03 08 Mar 24
Ruby and Chris were very professional and thoroughly explained what they were doing. They left the area just as they found. Excellent service!
Allison De PaoliAllison De Paoli
23:40 07 Mar 24
Very knowledgeable
mark rodriguezmark rodriguez
23:17 07 Mar 24
Carlos,was absolutely the best. Professional to the max, honest and respectful. Answered all my questions.
Lynnie MichelleLynnie Michelle
17:38 01 Mar 24
Great service from Rudy and Chris
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