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Furnace: What Does Short Cycling Mean?

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Furnace: What Does Short Cycling Mean?

Posted On: December 30, 2024

Furnace: What Does Short Cycling Mean?

Short cycling is a term used to describe a situation where your furnace turns on and off repeatedly without completing a full heating cycle. This inefficient operation not only compromises the comfort of your home but can also lead to higher energy bills and unnecessary wear and tear on your furnace.


Common Causes of Furnace Short Cycling:

  1. Dirty Air Filters
    A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. Replacing the air filter regularly can prevent this issue.


  2. Thermostat Issues
    If your thermostat is located in an area that heats up quickly, such as near a heat source or in direct sunlight, it can signal the furnace to shut off prematurely. Incorrect thermostat settings or malfunctions can also cause short cycling.


  3. Oversized Furnace
    A furnace that’s too large for your home will heat the space quickly and then shut off, only to restart when the temperature drops. This constant on-and-off cycle is inefficient and can reduce the lifespan of your furnace.


  4. Blocked Vents or Ductwork
    Obstructions in your ductwork or closed vents can disrupt proper airflow, leading to overheating and short cycling.


  5. Faulty Flame Sensor
    A dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor can cause the furnace to shut down as it fails to detect the burner flame. Cleaning or replacing the flame sensor can resolve the issue.


  6. Low Airflow
    Problems with the blower motor, fan, or other components affecting airflow can lead to short cycling. Insufficient airflow causes the furnace to overheat and shut off prematurely.


  7. Improper Gas Pressure
    Incorrect gas pressure can affect the furnace’s combustion process, causing it to turn off before completing a cycle. This issue requires professional attention.


Why Short Cycling Matters

Short cycling not only results in uneven heating and discomfort but also:


  • Increases energy consumption, leading to higher utility bills.
  • Puts excessive strain on furnace components, potentially shortening its lifespan.
  • Raises the risk of furnace breakdowns or costly repairs.

How to Address Furnace Short Cycling

  • Change or Clean Air Filters: Ensure regular maintenance to keep airflow unrestricted.
  • Check Thermostat Placement: Relocate or recalibrate the thermostat if needed.
  • Inspect Ductwork and Vents: Clear any blockages or open closed vents.
  • Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular furnace tune-ups to ensure all components are functioning properly.
  • Consult an HVAC Technician: If the problem persists, a professional can diagnose and repair complex issues like gas pressure irregularities or faulty parts.

If you suspect your furnace is short cycling, addressing the problem promptly can restore comfort to your home and protect your heating system from further damage.



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by Private User from Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I have used Twintech many times over the years. They always arrive quickly and get the issue fixed. The most recent incident was when my air conditioner broke last week I called Greg at 11:30am and he was at my home by 2:30pm he had the unit fixed by 3:30pm. Twintech are very reliable and honest and they are experts in the field. I have already recommended them to many of my friends. I would not use anyone but them for my heating and air conditioning issues.

by Kate A in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I would highly recommend these guys, professional, fast and competitive pricing. I moved into this place with no working AC unit with a 8 month baby, he was able to come with in a week to fix even in the busy summer days. He really values his customers , I am already recommending to my neighbors.

by Private User in Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very impressed they arrive to quote even though I had forgotten to call them back to confirm date & time. They showed the day before installation to deliver the unit. Returned the next day as promised at 9am. Project was completed in a professional manner. They even fixed a few things that they noticed were not installed correctly, or to code by previous heating & air contractors we had at our residence before. Would recommend this company to everyone!

by Private User from Bowmanville on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Greg removed old oil furnace and oil tank from basement relocated new Napoleon propane furnace to allow duct work to be rerouted to a much more suitable location. Moved air conditioner to the new furnace. Dave recommended two available grants to assist with cost. They kept to their original quoted price which was substantially lower than a competitors for the same furnace and work. They completed the work as stated when stated and left the area clean and tidy. We are very pleased with the outcome.

by astephenson in Oshawa on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech installed a Goodman furnace and ac init. Very professional install, both units are working well.

by rcnichols electric in Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We had Grant and Greg Dainty quote to replace our 20 yr old furnace. I have known them for years and have had other jobs done by them ( AC and Pool Htr). The price was very reasonable and the job was completed in one day.

by Rick. F. in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech was the right choice. Our consultation with Dave set the tone. Professional and knowledgeable, we even received a follow-up call within hours of our install completion, wow! TwinTech arrived as scheduled to install our A/C unit. Within minutes of arrival Greg noted and explained a few out of code faults on our furnace installed by another company, problems fixed, thanks TwinTech. Greg, Grant and "Subaru" Pete were meticulous start to finish. Highly recommended!

by Taresh, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech replaced our aging +20 yrs old Furnace & AC with the variable high efficiency Napoleon Furnace matched with the Goodman AC. Sales guy ,Dave was great, gave a no pressure estimate, explained about the Government Rebate program which they took care of completely including arranging the home energy audit. On the scheduled day Greg and his team arrived on time, did a great job and completed the same day , extremely professional and courteous, cleaned up everything , tested the system, Greg took his time to explain the setup. Very impressed with the Napoleon Furnace 9600 which did a great job in maintaining a comfortable temperature last winter and now with the hot weather the Goodman AC cooled the house in much less time than the old AC unit could ever. From start to finish Twintech were great and have no hesitation in recommending them 100%.

by Private User Pickering, ON on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The Twintech team did an excellent job installing our new Goodman air conditioner. They were polite and professional. Greg was knowledgeable and clearly experienced. Thank you Twintech for bringing our cooling system up to current regulations. Job well done!

by Y. M. from Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Dave from TwinTech was very knowledgeable, professional and thorough in the buying process. He helped us to identify the best furnace for our home and our budget. When we needed a new filter a year later and seemed to have a problem finding the right one, I called Dave up and he delivered a filter to me the next day! The cost was on par with other retailers, but it was this unexpected personal service that really was impressive. The furnace? Works like a charm.

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by Aaron on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.

by Linda on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

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We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

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