If your furnace keeps turning on and off in short spurts, there could be something wrong. My Father’s Mechanical advises that this action is called short-cycling, and short-cycling is one sign that you need a new furnace. Let’s talk about the reasons why furnaces short-cycle.
Flame Sensor Deterioration
The flame sensor must be cleaned regularly to ensure it does not corrode. Your gas furnace actually produces a little bit of water when it burns the fuel. This water can settle on the flame sensor and rust it. We can clean your flame sensor quickly and easily.
Overheating Furnace
One dangerous reason why the furnace short-cycles is that it is overheating. The temperature-monitoring component in your furnace may have gone bad, and, as a consequence, your furnace gets too hot when it runs. It has a safety mechanism that will cut its power when it overheats.
Clogged Filters
If you are not faithful about changing your furnace filters, this could be the reason why the furnace is short-cycling. Clogged filters impede the airflow and cause the hot air the furnace produces to back up and remain in the unit. This will cut the furnace’s power quickly.
Faulty Thermostat
Another reason why your furnace is short-cycling is the thermostat. If your thermostat is going bad, it will turn the furnace on and off sporadically. It could be a short in the thermostat or a malfunctioning thermostat that isn’t reading the indoor temperature correctly.
Clogged Vents
Also called the flue, your gas furnace is vented to release carbon monoxide outdoors rather than in your home. If the vent is clogged, your furnace will not only short-cycle but you also run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning as the gas could enter your indoor environment.
Ignition System Damage
The electronic ignition system or pilot can also cause your furnace to short-cycle. If it is damaged, it will shut off prematurely and your furnace will cut its power to protect you from gas accumulation. Replacing the pilot can resolve this issue.
Poor Insulation
Finally, your furnace may be short-cycling because you’ve got cold air coming into your home. This air can be seeping in through unsealed doors and windows. You might also have cold air coming in through cracks in your home’s exterior.
Call My Father’s Mechanical in San Antonio, TX, today if your furnace is short-cycling. We will inspect the unit to determine the problem and fix it.