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Serving the Denton, Texas area


The Causes and Effects of Air Conditioner Short Cycling

As you use your air conditioner to stay cool this summer, you should listen for any unusual noises coming from the system. You should especially listen for the sound of your air conditioner turning itself on and off every couple of minutes. This behavior is called short cycling, and it’s extremely damaging to your system. Let’s take a look at why air conditioner short cycling happens, and why you need to get it treated as soon as possible.

The Cause

There are a number of different causes for air conditioner short cycling. It’s possible that there is a problem with your thermostat, or the wiring that connects it to your air conditioner. This causes incorrect signals to be sent to the system, causing it to short cycle. It’s also possible that there’s a problem with the compressor.

The compressor is the part of the air conditioner responsible for pumping refrigerant gas down the line to the condenser unit. This not only makes it possible for the air conditioner to cool the home, but helps keep an even rhythm. If the compressor is faulty or damaged, it can throw off the rhythm of the system and cause it to short cycle.

The Problems

The main issue with short cycling is that it places an immense amount of strain on the system. This causes parts of the air conditioner to wear down faster, resulting in more breakdowns and a shorter lifespan. It also makes your air conditioner significantly less efficient, which will make you quite a bit more uncomfortable on a hot day. For the sake of your system and your comfort, you should call for repairs as soon as you notice your air conditioner short cycling.

PRK Services, Inc. offers a full range of air conditioner repair services throughout Argyle, TX. Call today for more info.

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