Why Do Heat Pumps Short Cycle in Woodbridge, VA?

A short-cycling heat pump repeatedly turns off and on without finishing a cycle. This behavior damages its components and inflates your energy bill. Let’s discuss why heat pumps in Woodbridge, VA, short cycle and how you can prevent this problem in the future.

Thermostat Placement

A thermostat’s location affects how well it communicates with your HVAC system. If the device is near vents, doors or windows, it detects fluctuating temperatures, causing it to prompt the HVAC system to turn on and off multiple times. An HVAC service technician should place the thermostat where there won’t be any disruptive temperature fluctuations, such as in a first-floor centralized room, and also at a height where children won’t be able to tamper with it.

Clogged Air Filter

The air filter in your HVAC system plays a big part in protecting your family from experiencing poor indoor air quality symptoms, such as sneezing, headaches, watery eyes, running nose, fatigue and dizziness. Over time, contaminants build up on the filter and don’t allow the air to flow through freely as it normally would.

Consequently, your heat pump short cycles due to poor airflow. Have a professional HVAC service technician replace your air filter every few months so it won’t get clogged and put a strain on your system.

Incorrect Heat Pump Size

An oversized heat pump means the system is too large for your home. This leads to it heating your home too quickly before it shuts down due to short cycling.

The only solution is to have HVAC service technicians replace the system. They will need to choose one that’s the appropriate size for your home and its needs.

A short-cycling heat pump isn’t something to ignore, especially considering the long-term damage it can cause to your system. Contact Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning immediately for professional heating services. Our service technicians will carefully examine your heat pump and determine how to rectify the situation.

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