Typically, a furnace runs for a certain amount of time before shutting off and then repeating this cycle to stay at the setting on the thermostat. If your furnace turns on and off too many times, you may have a problem. Frequent cycling on and off can make the house less comfortable, waste energy and put extra stress on your furnace. Here are some of the reasons for Furnace Repair.
A Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons you're cycling too often. Dust, lint, and other tiny particles cling to the filter and cause a blockage. If your filter is plugged up, your furnace will cause the air to overheat since the warm air has a hard time moving throughout the home.
A safety device may turn the burner off if it gets too hot, and the system may turn back on again after it cools. This cycle can happen repeatedly. Maintain air flow by regularly checking the filter and replacing it as needed.
Thermostat Problems
The furnace turns on and off when the thermostat commands it to do so. An improperly functioning or calibrated thermostat, or one placed improperly could be giving the wrong reading of the temperature in the house.
For instance, if the thermostat is positioned close to a draft, heater, window or a sunbeam then it could receive a false reading. This may result in the system running more often than it should.
An Oversized Furnace
If the furnace is oversized for your home, it may heat the space too rapidly. An oversized furnace may hit the thermostat setting quickly and turn off before going through a series of long, more economical cycles.
Then, the temperature dips again, and the furnace kicks on again. This short cycling may impact comfort and also decrease component life. When replacing or installing a heating system it's worth ensuring the equipment is properly sized.
Restricted Airflow
Other airflow restrictions Besides a dirty filter, other restrictions on airflow may be at the root of the problem. These could include blocked supply registers, closed vents, dirty parts or ductwork malfunctions.
Vents should not be blocked by furniture or other objects. Even with clear vents and a new filter, if the airflow is still low, it may be time to consult a professional.
Problems With the Flame Sensor
The flame sensor acts as a safety feature to help verify proper operation of the furnace burner. If the flame sensor gets dirty or goes bad, the furnace can shut down within a minute or so of ignition.
The system may then try restarting, leading to an obvious cycle of starting and stopping. Since parts of a furnace are combustion and electrical systems, homeowners should have suspicious component issues checked out by a trained professional.
Dirty or Malfunctioning Components
Over time, the furnace will become filled with dust and debris. Dirty burnors, heat exchangers, blower parts, and other components have an impact on how well the system operates.
Scheduled professional service can catch buildup, damaged parts, airflow blockages and other issues before they become more serious. For example, a preheater can be checked for buildup, before the heating season.
Poor Ductwork Performance
Hot air may not circulate as well if there are problems with your ductwork. Leaks or disconnections between ducts, or lack of insulation, can prevent the furnace from effectively moving the warm air through the house.
If rooms stay cold while others heat up quickly, the duct system may be worth a look.
Why Frequent Cycling Should Not Be Ignored
Frequent cycling is common, but an furnace that goes on and off several times in short cycles shouldn't be tolerated. Short cycling can cause your home to be unable to reach a consistent temperature and can cause unnecessary strain on your equipment.
A technician can evaluate the whole system to find the root cause and determine if cleaning, adjustment or component repair may solve the problem.
When to Schedule Professional Service
Should replacing a dirty filter and inspecting for closed vents not solve the problem, homeowners are advised to call in the professionals. Some other signs that might warrant a visit from a service technician include strange noises, burning smells, limited airflow, and inconsistent temperatures.
In Search of a Furnace Repair Springfield IL? If you are having issues with a furnace cycling too often, a professional inspection can provide the answer as to why the furnace is cycling so frequently and do so safely.
Keep Your Furnace Operating Reliably
What Causes Your Furnace to Short Cycle and How Can You Prevent It? Short cycling can be caused by everything from clogged filters, thermostat problems, to equipment sizing and mechanical issues. We'll go over the common causes of short cycling and what you can do to prevent it.
Monthly maintenance, clean filters, clear vents and professional inspections can help ensure your furnace's reliable operation throughout the winter heating season.