6 Reasons Why Your Furnace Keeps Turning Off and How to Repair It 

Your furnace keeps your home comfortable during the frigid winter months, so it’s frustrating when something is off. One common issue is a furnace that continuously kicks on and shuts back off over and over. This problem is referred to as short cycling. It overworks equipment and may lead to costly repairs or even early failure. 

Short cycling can be the result of for a few reasons. Before you request furnace repair, read about the possible causes and how to fix the situation. 

1. Dirty Air Filter 

The HVAC filter catches airborne dust, hair and other substances that could cause problems for furnace. If you don’t replace the filter regularly, it can become clogged and decrease the airflow. When this happens, a safety device switches off the furnace to avoid getting too hot. Inspect the filter, and if it’s dirty, get a new one. From now on, install a new filter every 30 to 90 days to keep your furnace from short cycling. 

2. Blocked Air Vents 

A dirty filter isn’t the only trouble that can restrict airflow and overheat your furnace. Walk around your house and check for unopened or crowded air vents. For proper system balance and performance, keep all registers open, even in unused rooms. 

3. Dirty Blower Wheel 

The furnace blower uses blades that push air through the ductwork. If they are covered in dirt, the air won’t travel correctly, causing overheating and short cycling. Frequently replacing the filter is the simplest way to prevent a dirty blower wheel. If the blades are already dirty, book furnace maintenance to have them cleaned. 

4. Faulty Thermostat 

Examine your thermostat next. This is the brain of your HVAC system and instructs the furnace on what to do. Make sure the thermostat is in heating mode and auto fan with the desired temperature displayed on the screen. Try replacing the batteries. Also, check whether the thermostat is in direct sunlight or near a heat source that could affect the temperature reading. If you use a smart thermostat, check the manufacturer’s site for troubleshooting instructions. 

5. Sooty Flame Sensor 

The flame sensor is responsible for turning off the gas valve when no burner flame is present. The sensor can’t detect the flame if it’s coated in soot, so the gas shuts off sooner and the furnace shuts off. Leave the work of repairing a dirty flame sensor to a professional like Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. 

6. Oversized Furnace 

When it comes to home comfort equipment, larger isn’t always better. An oversized system adds warmth to your residence too rapidly, causing intolerable temperature changes and short cycling. The only way to fix this situation is to request new furnace installation. 

If you go through the resolutions suggested here and you’re still having problems, it’s time to call in the pros at Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ll examine the situation, figure out the cause, and do the necessary service. Our aim is to reintroduce indoor comfort, energy efficiency and dependable furnace performance for the rest of the season. And our services are backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about furnace short cycling, or to request HVAC repair, give us a call at 954-736-4314 today! 

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*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.