How Long Should My Heat Pump Stay Off Between Cycles?

Heat pumps are a fantastic energy-efficient alternative to traditional heating and cooling systems. They’re environmentally friendly and flexible. Like HVAC systems, heat pumps periodically cycle between on and off, but it’s not always noticeable when they start cycling too often (until those energy bills skyrocket!).

Below, Comfort Specialists explores the question: how long should a heat pump stay off between cycles? And if you need heat pump repair in Roxbury Township, NJ, be sure to contact us!

Why Do Heat Pumps Cycle?

Why shouldn't a heat pump run all the time? Aside from using a lot of energy to do so, constantly running it does not necessarily help with its heating or cooling performance. 

Manufacturers design heat pumps to operate in discrete cycles. When the temperature goes below or above the desired level, it turns on. Then, when the indoor temperature matches your chosen thermostat setting, the heat pump shuts off.

Continuous operation would put undue strain on the compressor, which can cause irreversible damage. So, this on-off cycling makes your system more efficient, only running it as needed. That way, the unit and its components last longer.

What Happens If My Heat Pump Cycles Too Much?

Short cycling is when your heat pump cycles more frequently than it should. With cycles that are too short, a heat pump shuts off before reaching the required temperature. Then, it gets confused by the incorrect reading and will quickly turn on to try again. 

However, frequently turning on and off means the system uses more power, so you’ll have high energy bills. It also wears out the system components for hefty repair costs and, eventually, the need for a total heat pump replacement. 

Short cycling can be a result of several things, but most commonly, it's a broken compressor. The compressor controls when the system pressurizes coolant fluid and starts its cycle. If your system keeps turning on and off too quickly, the first thing experts like Comfort Specialists will check is the compressor.

How Often Should My Heat Pump Cycle?

So how long should a heat pump stay off between cycles when it’s working optimally? The answer depends on several factors, including the following:

• The type of heat pump
• Outdoor temperature
• Unit size and age
• Features around your house

However, most heat pumps should complete about two to three cycles per hour, with about ten minutes of downtime between each cycle. 

How to Make Sure Your HVAC Cycles Properly

If you notice your HVAC cycling too frequently, try the following solutions:

Change Thermostat Position

A heat pump takes cues from the thermostat for when it should turn on and off. Is the thermostat near a vent or a window? Inaccurate readings could turn the system on in error. 

Thermostats should be on an open stretch of your wall at least five feet above the ground. Keep it away from doors and windows.

Replace Your Home’s Insulation

The better insulated your home, the less energy it will use, meaning your heat pump won’t have to work as hard to compensate. Replacing insulation in your attic, walls, and crawl spaces drastically cuts energy wastage, as does sealing any cracks in doors and windows.

Test Refrigerant Levels

Like an HVAC system, your heat pump needs coolant to work properly. If the refrigerant level is too low, your system might start cycling too frequently. You should never have to replace the coolant in your heat pump, so if levels are low, there’s a leak that an expert will need to identify and repair.

Seal Ducts

Your home can lose a lot of heat energy through holes in your ductwork that form in the seams and allow cool air and heat to escape. An HVAC system has to work double time to replace the missing air with duct leaks. So, sealing these holes and replacing damaged ductwork will solve the problem.

Change Air Filters Frequently

Another possible cause of improper cycling can be insufficient airflow. Clogged filters restrict the amount of air the handler transmits, which not only makes your system less efficient but also impacts indoor air quality. Experts like Comfort Specialists typically recommend changing your HVAC air filters at least once every six months—more if you live somewhere that’s very dusty. 



Your Roxbury Heating and Cooling Experts

How long should a heat pump stay off between cycles if it’s a newer model? Find out from Comfort Specialists online or reach out to us at (973) 490-4881 today! Alternatively, read our blog to learn more about the differences between a heat pump vs. gas furnace and more.