Reasons Your Heat Pump in Alton, IL, Turns On and Off Frequently

A heat pump in good condition heats or cools your Alton, IL, home in two to three cycles every hour. Each cycle should last 10 to 20 minutes. Cycling on and off frequently is a sign of an underlying problem. In this article, we will discuss why your heat pump short cycles.

Clogged Air Filter

A clogged air filter creates a barrier that blocks air from entering your system freely. As a result, it works harder to draw more air through the clogged air filter. Overworking causes your system to overheat.

Overheating triggers a safety procedure that shuts down the system to prevent a fire from breaking out. Since the system doesn’t achieve your desired temperatures, it turns on again after a short while.

Your air filter becomes clogged when too many contaminants build up on it. If you’re using a reusable filter, remember to clean it often. If you’re using a replaceable filter, get a new one every two to three months.

Thermostat Issues

When you key in your temperature needs on the thermostat, the device relays this information to the heat pump through a series of wires. Any damage on these wires interrupts the smooth communication between the thermostat and the system, resulting in short cycling.

Also, your thermostat may send confusing instructions if the device is in an area where temperatures fluctuate often, such as near vents or heat-generating appliances. Request a service technician to inspect your thermostat to repair damaged wiring. They can also help you install your thermostat in an appropriate location.

Oversized Heat Pump

An oversized heat pump turns on, heats or cools your home quickly and shuts down prematurely. Since the system doesn’t distribute the heated or cooled air evenly in your house, it starts another cycle and continues with the same behavior. Replace an oversized heat pump with a system that matches your home’s temperature needs.

Call Den-Son Inc. Cooling & Heating for professional heat pump services. We will inspect your system carefully to identify and resolve the problems causing it to cycle frequently.

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