The Dangers of Furnace Short Cycling in Highlands Ranch, CO

If your furnace frequently turns on and off, you’ll likely ask, “Is furnace short cycling dangerous?” As the trusted provider of heating services in Highlands Ranch, CO, Southwest Heating & Air Conditioning Repair can answer all your questions and diagnose any issue with your heater. From Blakeland to Big Dry Creek, we’re passionate about keeping homeowners safe with insightful tips and quality service.

What Is Short Cycling?

Short cycling is when your furnace turns off after a few minutes of operation. After another short period, it starts the heating cycle but deactivates quickly again. What are the causes of short cycling? The most common reasons include loose electrical connections and overheating. A malfunctioning thermostat or incorrect device size are two other culprits, though less typical.

How Short Cycling Harms Highlands Ranch Homes

Rapidly alternating between on and off creates issues with the furnace and may affect the rest of the home. Homeowners should stay vigilant for the following complications.

The Heating System Can’t Keep You Comfortable

Is furnace short cycling dangerous? Winter temperatures in Highlands Ranch can drop below freezing, creating unsafe temperatures in any home with adequate heating. At best, a heating system that cycles frequently warms the home slowly and unevenly. In many cases, it can’t heat the home at all. Once indoor temperatures fall below 64, consider it an emergency and call for immediate repairs.

Monthly Energy Expenses Hurt Financial Security

When furnaces and boilers experience wear and tear or need minor repairs, they run less efficiently. When furnace efficiency problems lead to longer heating cycles, higher monthly energy bills become a long-term symptom. Calling for immediate repairs is a crucial investment for your household. What you spend on the appointment, you’ll save on lower utility expenses in the long term.

Some Furnaces May Leak Carbon Monoxide

One of the biggest furnace safety concerns is leaking carbon monoxide in gas models. Homes with electric devices don’t worry about this complication. What are the health complications of carbon monoxide exposure?

• Frequent or chronic headaches or migraines
• Dizziness or trouble balancing
• Nausea or vomiting without an apparent cause
• Shortness of breath and trouble breathing
• Confusion and lack of concentration
• Blurred vision
• Muscular weakness and incoordination

Short Cycling Increases the Risk of Fire

If the short cycling comes from a furnace overheating, it has a small chance of increasing the home’s fire risk. The most likely reasons a device overheats include dirt buildup on the filter, blocked vents, and broken components. If the dirt buildup becomes too hot or the malfunctioning piece sparks, it can start to produce a flame that quickly spreads throughout the home.

The Stress Creates Wear and Tear on the System

When your furnace is cycling too fast, it causes significant stress on the system. The increased wear and tear will hasten the demise of your system and force an expensive early replacement. It won’t last the average life expectancy of 20 years. Even before it fails, it will need many costly repairs. Fixing the issue at the first sign of rapid cycling is the most prudent choice.

Protecting Your Heating System From Short Cycling

Is furnace short cycling dangerous? Yes, but you can use the following best practices to prevent furnace damage and protect the home.

Prioritize Annual Maintenance From a Certified Professional

Yearly maintenance is the most important thing you can do for your Highlands Ranch HVAC system. During the inspection, the technician identifies and fixes any minor issues before they can cause serious damage. Maintenance saves money by helping the device last longer and lowering energy bills.

Frequently Check and Replace the Filter

Check your air filter and change or clean it at least every 30 days. Smokers or homes with pets should inspect it more frequently. This prevents a wide range of furnace issues.

Run the Heating System in Moderation

The United States Department of Energy suggests that homeowners set their thermostats to 68 degrees in the winter. It keeps furnace use minimal and thus reduces wear and tear. Stay comfortable by wearing layers, drinking hot beverages, and using blankets.