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Heater Keep Turning On and Off? Understanding Short Cycling

While cold winters are very rare in Sarasota, Florida, you might experience some days when you need to have the heating on all day. If your heater cuts off regularly, you should look for the reason to solve the problem, lower your energy bills, and keep your unit functioning well.

Short cycling occurs when your furnace turns on and off after a short period of time, and it can be a sign of a major issue with your heating system. Find out more about the reasons why your heating system could develop a short cycling issue, and learn how to deal with the problem effectively.

Air Flow Problems

There are several different reasons why the airflow in your furnace could be restricted: a blocked air filter, clogged up vent registers, and problems with air conditioning coils. 

If the air filters in your furnace are dirty, you will experience a lack of air flow, and this will cause short cycling. It is recommended that you change the filters every two months and keep them clean whenever you can. Get your furnace serviced by a professional Sarasota, Florida, heating company regularly, or sign up for a maintenance plan. 

If your ductwork is blocked, you will need a professional to look at your system and clear it. Air conditioning coils in the furnace can also get dirty and block the flow of the air during cooling or heating seasons — another problem that an HVAC technician can address.

Thermostat Issues

If you have a thermostat, it can also cause short cycling. if it is not located at the right place, for example it is by the door, every time someone enters the house, the heating will turn on. Always get a heating professional’s opinion on where to install your thermostat. 

Circuit Board Issue

If the problem is more serious, you will need to set up a service appointment. In some cases, the circuit board of the heating system will fail, causing the electricity to cut out. If you have checked the thermostat location and air flow, an HVAC technician will be able to diagnose the issue and give you advice on how it can be solved. 

If the problem gets worse, your furnace will eventually start tripping the circuit breaker and stop working completely. If you have an electrical or control panel fault, you should not attempt trying to fix the furnace yourself, as this can be dangerous.

Inducer Fault

If your inducer is faulty, the system will stop, as there is not enough energy to power the heating. This problem is often related to the motor that powers your central heating, and the cause can be very complex. Chances are you have a heat exchanger fault, an underperforming motor, and your motor will overheat and short out the system.  Make sure that you consult with a heating technician and don’t open up the furnace at all. 

Water Leaks 

If you have had any water leaks near your furnace, there is a chance that its electrical system has become damp or wet. When wires and connections are not completely dry, they can short out, causing serious problems and increasing your heating bills at the same time. 

Whenever your heating system shorts out, you will need to investigate the problem. The longer you put up with the issue, the more likely it is that you will have to find need a new heater. You should always consult with an approved heating specialist, who can give you a full diagnosis and check the possible causes. This way, you can increase the efficiency of your furnace while saving money on repair costs.

Get in touch with Climatic Conditioning Co. to book an appointment online, or call (941) 758-3080 to sign up for a regular furnace maintenance plan and improve your heating efficiency.

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Climatic Conditioning Company, Inc., Air Conditioning Contractor, Sarasota, FL