6 Reasons Why Your Furnace Keeps Switching Off and How to Resolve It 

Your furnace keeps your house cozy during the frigid winter months, so it’s frustrating when something is wrong. One routine issue is a furnace that continuously turns on and turns off over and over. This operating error is known as short cycling. It stresses your furnace and might cause costly repairs or even early failure. 

Short cycling can be the result of for a few reasons. Before you book furnace repair, research the possible causes and how to resolve the issue. 

1. Dirty Air Filter 

The HVAC filter catches airborne dust, hair and other substances that could wreak havoc on furnace. If you don’t change the filter frequently, it can eventually be filthy and decrease the airflow. When this takes place, a safety device turns off the furnace to stop overheating. Inspect the filter, and if it’s dirty, replace it. Going forward, replace the filter every 30 to 90 days to keep your furnace from short cycling. 

2. Obstructed Air Vents 

A dirty filter isn’t the only issue that can restrict airflow and overheat your furnace. Walk around your home and look for unopened or blocked air vents. For proper system balance and performance, keep all registers open, even in unoccupied rooms. 

3. Dirty Blower Wheel 

The furnace blower has blades that move air through the ductwork. If they are caked with dirt, the air won’t move correctly, creating overheating and short cycling. Frequently changing the filter is the simplest method to avoid a dirty blower wheel. If the blades are already dirty, book furnace maintenance to have them cleaned. 

4. Faulty Thermostat 

Check your thermostat next. This is the core of your HVAC system and instructs the furnace on what to do. Ensure the thermostat is set to heating mode and auto fan with the desired temperature showing on the screen. Try replacing the batteries. Also, check whether the thermostat is in bright sunlight or near a heat source that could affect the temperature reading. If you use a smart thermostat, go to the manufacturer’s site for troubleshooting tips. 

5. Sooty Flame Sensor 

The flame sensor is responsible for turning off the gas valve when no burner flame going. The sensor can’t find the flame if it’s coated in soot, so the gas turns off prematurely and the furnace shuts off. Leave the work of repairing a faulty flame sensor to an Expert like Chief/Bauer Service Experts. 

6. Oversized Furnace 

When it involves heating and cooling equipment, larger isn’t always right. A bigger system heats up your house too fast, creating uncomfortable temperature changes and short cycling. The only way to resolve this issue is to request new furnace installation

If you try the resolutions we mentioned here and nothing has changed, it’s time to contact the pros at Chief/Bauer Service Experts. We’ll examine the situation, figure out the cause, and provide the necessary service. Our goal is to bring back indoor comfort, energy efficiency and dependable furnace performance for all season long. And our services are supported by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.* For more details about furnace short cycling, or to book HVAC repair, reach us at 217-689-2469 now! 

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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. 

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