In HVAC, a cycle refers to the period that it takes for your heating or cooling unit to reach the set temperature once the thermostat tells the HVAC unit to heat or cool. A regular cycle should take 10-20 minutes depending on the system, the outdoor temperature, and the desired indoor temperature.
Cycling, or short cycling, can be a sign of a problem. It’s when the HVAC system repeatedly turns on and off, without completing a full cycle. For example, if your system cycles on and off several times in 10 minutes, the system is short cycling. This can cause cold and hot spots, increased humidity in the summer, and more.
Several things can cause short cycling. Some solutions to the problem are simple, while others are more extensive. Common causes include:
Change your filter regularly to help prevent short cycling. For a malfunctioning thermostat, frozen coils, or an improperly sized HVAC system, contact your local American Standard dealer for service and product recommendations.
By Anne Fonda, Content Writer
Expert review by Eric Weiss, Technical Trainer
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A specific technique for load calculation. HVAC technicians use Manual J to calculate how much heating or cooling you need to properly heat or cool your home.
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