Why Does My Furnace Keep Turning On and Off Frequently

Why does my furnace keep turning on and off frequently?

When the chilly winter days roll into Georgia, you rely on your furnace to keep your household warm. If your furnace keeps shutting on and off, causing your home to feel colder than usual, there’s likely an underlying issue that requires attention. 

Constant cycling, also known as short cycling, can cause uneven heating, rising energy bills, and shorter heater lifespans. Understanding the causes of this problem can help you catch it early on so your home stays warm all season long. Keep reading to learn more about short cycling, its causes, and when to contact a professional.

What is Heater Short Cycling?

When a heater short cycles, it turns off before reaching the desired temperature. For example, if you set your thermostat to 72 degrees, your furnace may shut down at only 68 or 70 degrees. A short-cycling furnace often turns on and off repeatedly, running shorter-than-normal heating cycles. It may turn on for only a few minutes before shutting off and repeat the cycle up to eight times an hour. Constant cycling will cause uneven heating, reduced home comfort, and increased energy consumption.

Some of the top signs that your furnace is short-cycling include the following:

What Is the Normal Furnace Cycling Frequency?

A typical heating cycle frequency will depend on the size of your furnace, the outdoor temperature, and your home’s insulation. The colder the weather, the more often your furnace will cycle. In cold temperatures, your furnace may cycle three to five times per hour. In mild weather, you may notice it cycles less frequently. Generally, each cycle lasts between 10 and 15 minutes. If you notice your furnace cycles becoming shorter or more frequent, contact a professional to determine the underlying cause.

Common Causes of Furnace Short Cycling 

There are several common causes of short cycling, ranging from broken components to improper sizing. An HVAC technician can determine and repair the underlying issue to prevent it from progressing. Some of the top culprits include:

Consequences of Unaddressed Heater Short Cycling

If you suspect your heater is short-cycling, contact a professional for furnace repair as soon as possible. Failing to address the issue can severely strain the furnace and its components, leading to increased wear and tear, more frequent repairs, and a shorter lifespan.

A short-cycling furnace also causes uneven heating throughout your home. Since it doesn’t stay on long enough to maintain a consistent temperature, some areas will be significantly colder than others.

You’ll also notice your energy bills climbing. The more often your furnace turns on and off, the more energy it uses. Without repair, your heating costs will quickly increase due to the increased usage.

Call Ricky Heath for Furnace Repair in Georgia

Don’t let a short-cycling furnace keep you in the cold. Contact Ricky Health for expert furnace repair today! We’ll quickly diagnose the issue, determine the underlying cause, and repair it to restore your home heating. With expert technicians and over 35 years of experience serving Macon residents, you can trust that you’re hiring the best.  

Don’t spend hours searching for furnace repair near you – call us or book online to schedule service in Macon or surrounding areas today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to repair or replace a short-cycling furnace?

Whether you need to repair or replace a short-cycling furnace depends on the cause and severity of the issue. If it’s due to a minor problem, such as a dirty air filter or faulty thermostat, repair is often an effective solution. However, problems such as improper sizing or a broken heat exchanger may indicate the need for furnace replacement. Our technicians will work with you to find the most effective solution for your heating needs and budget.

How expensive are repairs for short cycling?

The cost of repairs for short cycling will depend on the underlying issue. Once we diagnose the cause, we’ll provide an honest, up-front quote outlining the repair cost. We understand these issues can happen unexpectedly, and you may not be financially ready. That’s why we offer flexible financing options designed to fit your budget. Contact our team today to learn more!

Is short cycling dangerous?

Short cycling is often not dangerous, but it can lead to serious issues with your heating system. To prevent damage to your furnace, it’s important to schedule repair at the first sign of short cycling.

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