Why Does My Furnace Keep Turning Off in Sharpsburg, GA?

The average furnace heats a home in Sharpsburg, GA, in 10 to 15 minutes. It typically cycles like this two to three times an hour. If your furnace is cycling more frequently and for much shorter periods, something is wrong, even if it’s blowing hot air. Short-cycling in a furnace can be the result of overheating, a bad thermostat or a mismatch between the furnace size and home size.

Furnace Is Overheating

Anything that obstructs the flow of air through the vents will put pressure on the furnace motor. As a result, the system must work harder to circulate the air. Such stress on the motor can cause it to overheat, in which case the system will automatically shut down for safety’s sake. Check to see that your filter is clean and that you’re not blocking any of the supply vents with rugs or furniture.

Overheating may also occur because dirt and dust have entered the furnace and created an insulating layer on the motor and heat exchanger. Professional heating maintenance can address this with a thorough cleaning.

Thermostat Isn’t Calibrated

Thermostats need calibration now and then. That means adjusting the sensor inside them so that they read the temperature correctly. When a thermostat loses its calibration, it may think your home is already warm enough and shut the furnace down prematurely.

Heating System Is Too Big

The worst-case scenario is that whoever installed your system put something in that’s meant for a larger building. With such an excessive blowing capacity, your system may warm your home too rapidly and with uneven results. The only way to solve this is to replace the heating system.

If you live in Sharpsburg and want a trained pro to perform a heating repair on your short-cycling furnace, contact Scott Walker Heating and Air today. Though we’re a Trane Comfort Specialist, we service all brands of furnaces.

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