Many homeowners are unaware of the dangers associated with a short-cycling furnace. In the simplest of terms, this is when a furnace turns on and off in rapid succession without ever completing its heating cycle. This can cause big problems for your furnace unit, not to mention significantly increased energy costs due to wasted energy.

Fortunately, you can take some simple maintenance steps to help avoid short cycling. This article explores five ways heating contractors can prevent your furnace from short-cycling. 

Check the Air Filter

The air filter is one of the most important parts of your furnace and should be checked regularly to ensure it is clean and free of debris. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to run for shorter periods without actually achieving desired room temperatures. To avoid this issue, allow the heating contractor to check your air filter often and replace it when needed.

Adjust or Repair Thermostat

If your thermostat settings are not correctly adjusted, it may cause your furnace to short-cycle. Thankfully, your heating contractor will check the settings and make the necessary adjustments. If there is an issue with the thermostat itself, they can also help diagnose and repair it.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Your furnace needs adequate ventilation to work efficiently and without issues. That's why it is advisable to keep all vents clear of obstructions. You should also ensure that the ductwork doesn't have any leaks or clogs.

And since you cannot fulfill all these roles on your own, consider liaising with heating contractors. This way, on every maintenance appointment, the professionals will look at your whole system to ensure everything is in proper working order.

Check Your Heat Exchanger Regularly

The heat exchanger is one of the most important components of any furnace unit; it burns fuel, creating the heat required to keep your indoor spaces warm. Unfortunately, these heat exchangers can crack over time due to age or corrosion.

This can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks, premature shutdowns, or short-cycling problems. This is why it's important to have them checked regularly by a heating technician who can identify and address any potential issues before they become major repairs. 

Have an Annual Tune-Up

It's important to have an annual tune-up of your entire heating system. During this appointment, the technician will perform a comprehensive inspection and make necessary repairs or adjustments to restore your furnace to optimum working conditions.

Ultimately, short cycling can be frustrating for any homeowner, but following these simple steps should help you address it quickly and effectively. Be sure to keep up with regular heating maintenance appointments to allow your furnace technician to keep your unit in tip-top condition.