I just had a brand new air conditioner 5 ton condenser, coil and furnace installed in a 3,300sqft colonial in Connecticut. It’s 1am right now, 75 degrees outside with 97% humidity. I have my upstairs (which for a colonial is always hottest part of the house) thermostat set to 68 degrees. The AC turns on for about 7 minutes, shuts off for another 7 minutes and turns back on. Could it be short cycling? I’ve read it’s usually normal for an AC to stay running between 10-20 minutes?
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Tstat set for 68, what does it say the indoor temp is?– GunnerCommented Jul 30, 2020 at 8:01
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Keep in mind you're not only lowering the temp, you're also lowering the high humidity. 7 on and 7 off sounds reasonable.– JACKCommented Jul 30, 2020 at 12:54
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The thermostat reads 68. This 7 on/7 off is happening to maintain that temperature.– General WatersCommented Jul 30, 2020 at 13:11
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2 Answers
If you are at set point, it sounds like it's working correctly. Many of the newer high end thermostats have the ability to program maximum number of cycles per hour or minimum time between cycles, etc. varies by Tstat. You have to get into "installer setup" which requires the installer manual for directions and codes. But bear in mind, if you change some of those settings, you'll have wider temperature swings between cycles.
I'm not an expert in the calcs for HVAC, but your system might be a little over-sized. If it's oversized, it cools the space quickly, but doesn't have enough run time to dehumidify the space, leaving occupants with a cool, but clammy feeling.
I guess the most important question is: "Are you comfortable in the conditioned space?" If so, live and let live. For me personally, 68 would be way too cold, but that's just me.
Ed Beal may have other thoughts regarding the cycling rate and hope he'll chime in...I always learn something from him!
answered Jul 30, 2020 at 13:35
There could be any number of problems with your A/C unit. My recommendation is to have it serviced to make sure it is operating properly. Note, if the A/C does not cool to the setting of the thermostat then there is a problem that needs attention. Also, in a 2 story house the 2nd floor is usually warmer than the 1st floor since heat rises and cool air falls.
