How to Troubleshoot a Constant Cycling Air Conditioner

Air conditioners are a source of comfort and relief for many homes and businesses, particularly during hot or humid temperatures or seasons. Many different companies produce air conditioners, and the units can be purchased online or in home repair, hardware or heating and cooling supply stores. While most air conditioners are fairly simple to operate and work well under most circumstances, some owners may find that their air conditioner cycles constantly. This may be a simple problem to resolve through some troubleshooting steps.

Clean cloth(s)
Dishwashing liquid

Instructions

- 1
  Check the thermostat settings for the air conditioner. If the system switch is set to "On" then the air conditioner runs constantly. When the system switch is set to "Cool" and the fan switch is set to "Auto," the air conditioner will cycle on and off as needed to reach the set temperature. Either setting can be a problem if the set temperature is too cold or too warm. Set the air conditioner temperature to approximately 10 degrees cooler than the ambient temperature for the best results.
- 2
  Check the exterior of the air conditioner and remove any items that may be blocking the vents or grilles, as this obstructs air flow and causes the air conditioner to work harder. Keep the return air registers in the home clear for whole-home units.
- 3
  Disconnect power to the air conditioner and open the access panel. Remove the air filter and wash the filter with warm, soapy water to clean it. Rinse it with water and allow to air dry. Install the filter back into the air conditioner when dry. If the filter is dirty, it causes the air conditioner to have to work harder to achieve the set temperature.
- 4
  Close the doors and windows to help keep the cold air from escaping the home, which causes the air conditioner to continue to have to cycle on and off to achieve the set temperature.
- 5
  Use a larger capacity air conditioner if the air conditioner is a room unit and is trying to cool an extremely large space. A small air conditioner cooling a large room will have to cycle constantly.

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