What Makes Galveston, TX, Heat Pumps Short Cycle?

As the temperatures in your Galveston, TX, home fluctuate, your heat pump should pass through cycles of work and rest. Sometimes, your system can start short cycling, which is when it turns off before it completes an entire cycle. Here are several reasons heat pumps may short cycle:

Poor Airflow

For your heat pump to be effective, air must flow through it smoothly. Unfortunately, various things may obstruct the flow of air through the system, causing a cascade of negative effects.

If treated air cannot move into your home, your system will work harder to keep your environment at the requested temperature, which may also shorten its rest periods. Poor airflow can also cause overheating, potentially forcing your system to shut down or short cycle.

Though you can replace your heat pump’s air filters on your own, the only way to truly ensure optimal airflow is to schedule maintenance annually and have a professional service technician clean your system.

Refrigerant Leaks

Heat pumps use refrigerant to absorb heat from the air in one area and release it into another. The less refrigerant the system has, the less heat it’ll be able to move, which may force it to short cycle.

Failing Compressor

Arguably, the compressor is the single most important component of your entire heat pump. Its job is to increase the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant flowing through your system until it reaches a condensible state.

If the compressor breaks down, your heat pump won’t work. However, if it’s declining but retains some of its functionality, it may operate in fits and starts, which may manifest as short cycling behavior.

It’s important to watch your heat pump and make sure that it’s moving through complete cycles of about 10 to 15 minutes each. If it isn’t, it may affect your ability to stay warm this winter. Call Roberts Air, LLC and ask for our HVAC repair services that we offer in Galveston, TX.

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