Standard efficiency heat pumps generally run one or two cycles per hour, with a 10- to 20-minute break in between. Short cycling occurs when the heat pump runs shorter, more frequent cycles. Consider these possible causes for your heat pump in Miami, FL, to short cycle and leave your home uncomfortable:
Dirty Air Filter
Dirty air filters restrict airflow through the system, causing it to trigger sensors that prevent parts of it from freezing. A ductless system has reusable filters that need cleaning about every two weeks. Central heat pumps have filters that need replacing every 30 to 90 days for 1- and 2-inch models.
Insufficient Refrigerant
Heat pumps rely on refrigerant to absorb heat from one place and vent it into another. Your system should have a sealed refrigerant system, so if there’s insufficient charge, you likely have a leak that needs sealing.
Refrigerant charge is so critical that service technicians check it during routine maintenance. A new mid-season leak could indicate a bad seal or a faulty compressor.
Thermostat Issues
Thermostats are the brain of every residential HVAC system, reading the current temperature and managing heating and cooling cycles. These devices can experience issues that make them run long or short cycles.
These problems may include a faulty thermostat whose performance is degrading with age. However, it could also relate to poor thermostat placement. A thermostat in direct sunlight or near an HVAC supply vent can also give improper readings.
Improperly Sized Unit
It’s critical to get the proper heat pump size for your home in terms of heating and cooling capacity. When a system overpowers the space it serves, it can cause issues with improper system pressure and operating temperature. This results in short cycling, higher energy costs and shortened equipment lifespans.
Don’t let a short-cycling heat pump keep your home uncomfortable and cost you more in energy bills. Call to schedule a heat pump repair services with the award-winning team at RCI Air Conditioning Company.
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