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Learning about AC Cycles and Improving Efficiency Performance

How Long Should Your AC Stay Off Between Cycles?

Learn the ideal AC cycle times, what short- or long-cycling means, and when to call Airview AC for professional service in McKinney, TX.

 

Why AC Cycle Time Matters

Your air conditioner should cool your home, shut off to rest, and restart only when the temperature rises again. If it runs too often—or not often enough—the system wastes energy and wears out faster.

 

What Is an AC Cycle?

An AC cycle is one complete run of the compressor: the unit turns on, cools the home, meets the thermostat's set point, and then turns off. A healthy system repeats this pattern several times an hour without constant running.

 

Ideal Cycle Lengths

  • Cooling period: 15–20 minutes per cycle
  • Rest period: 7–10 minutes between cycles
  • Total cycles: 2–3 per hour under normal conditions
  • Extreme heat: Longer run times are standard, but the system should still shut off briefly

If your AC runs outside these ranges, schedule a diagnostic visit.

 

Warning Signs of Improper Cycling

Short Cycling (Stops Too Soon)

The AC switches on and off every few minutes, never reaching a full 15-minute run. Expect:

  • Low refrigerant
  • Thermostat miscalibration
  • Oversized system

Prolonged Cycling (Runs Too Long)

The AC runs 45 minutes to an hour without shutting off. Common causes include:

  • The thermostat is set unrealistically low
  • Dirty coils blocking heat transfer
  • Aging or undersized equipment

 

Consequences of Ignoring Cycle Problems

  • Higher energy bills
  • Frequent repairs and part failures
  • Premature system replacement
  • Uneven temperatures and hot spots
  • Poor humidity removal

 

Key Factors Affecting Cycle Duration

  • Outdoor temperature → hotter days = longer cycles
  • Unit maintenance → clean coils and proper refrigerant, keep cycles  efficient
  • System size → correctly sized units avoid short- or long-cycling

 

Why Professional Maintenance Pays Off

Regular service from a certified technician helps your AC cycle correctly by:

  • Checking and topping up refrigerant
  • Cleaning coils and clearing drain lines
  • Calibrating the thermostat
  • Verifying system size and airflow

 

Need Help? Call Airview AC

If your AC is short-cycling, long-cycling, or failing to cool, contact Airview AC for expert HVAC service in McKinney, TX. Our technicians can diagnose the issue, restore proper cycling, and extend the lifespan of your system.

Serving McKinney, Van Alstyne, and the surrounding North Texas communities.