Why does my air conditioner run for 5 minutes then shut off?

Author: Ricardo Miller DVM  |  Last update: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

Typically, short cycling can come from an incorrect unit size or programmable thermostat problems. However, it could also be caused by neglected routine maintenance or something that might require a simple repair.

Why does my AC run 5 minutes then shut off?

Reasons for Short Cycling

This can happen due to several reasons, the most common being clogged air filters, refrigerant leaks, and faulty electrical connections. When the air filter becomes clogged, it can restrict airflow, which can cause the compressor to overheat and shut off prematurely.

Why does my AC trip after 5 minutes?

One of the more common causes of an AC breaker tripping is a problematic compressor start-up. If your compressor is having trouble starting up, it can draw too much current and cause the breaker to trip. This problem is usually caused by faulty wiring or parts, such as a capacitor or motor winding.

Why does my AC unit run for a minute then stops?

Thermostat problems—The wiring may have been damaged on your thermostat or it could be as simple as incorrect settings. A poorly chosen thermostat location can also cause an AC unit to short cycle. Lack of annual maintenance—This can cause several problems for your air conditioner.

Why does my AC automatically turn off after a few minutes?

There are various reasons for your portable AC compressor to turn OFF frequently including dirty filter, clogged condenser, leaking refrigerant or a faulty compressor. Timer or inadequately set or faulty thermostat could also lead to consistent turning ON and OFF of portable AC.

9 Reasons Why Your Air Conditioner Starts Then Stops Quickly

Why does my air conditioner run for 10 minutes then shut off?

If your air conditioner is turning on and off quickly, it may be short cycling. Short cycling is a serious problem that will almost always lead to the AC condenser outside your house wearing out more quickly if you don't repair the underlying problem. The compressor motor is always under lots of strain as it starts up.

How to fix a short cycling air conditioner?

Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can put an end to your air conditioner's short-cycling issues:
  1. Check your air filter. ...
  2. Check your thermostat placement. ...
  3. Check your air conditioner's refrigerant levels. ...
  4. Replace the low-pressure control switch. ...
  5. Check the compressor.

Why does my AC run for 10 minutes then trip the breaker?

Typically, your AC breaker trips when there's a short circuit, the AC is overworking or a part is bad or malfunctioning. If you continue to run your AC, you could permanently damage the air conditioner. Get a professional AC repair tech out as soon as you can.

How to know if AC is short cycling?

When your AC turns on, it will usually need to run for anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes to cool your home completely. If the AC turns on and quickly shuts off again within a couple of minutes, there might be a major issue causing your unit to short cycle.

How to reset an air conditioner?

Reset the AC Using the Isolation Switch

The isolation switch looks like an ordinary light switch with a knob. Once you locate it, turn the knob to the off position and leave it for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. This will allow the electrically operated components in the AC to reset.

Why does my AC turn on then off immediately?

If your AC unit is turning on and then off right away, there are several possible causes. These include thermostat problems, refrigerant leaks, oversized AC units, and dirty air filters. With the exception of a dirty air filter, most of these issues should be addressed by a qualified HVAC technician.

How to check refrigerant level in AC?

Steps for Checking Refrigerant Levels
  1. Turn Off the AC and Remove the Cover. Turn off the AC unit and remove the cover to access the refrigerant level gauge or gauges.
  2. Locate and Remove the Access Panel. ...
  3. Attach Refrigerant Pressure Gauges. ...
  4. Interpret Pressure Levels. ...
  5. Add Refrigerant (if Necessary)

How much does it cost to replace an AC compressor?

On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one. However, your price will vary depending on factors like the size and brand of your compressor. Before you schedule your replacement, read on to learn about all AC compressor cost factors.

How to know if AC is low on refrigerant?

Warning Signs of Low Refrigerant in Your AC or Heat Pump
  1. Weak Airflow or Warm Air Blowing from Vents. ...
  2. Poor Cooling Performance. ...
  3. Constant Cycling On and Off. ...
  4. Ice Buildup on Refrigerant Lines or Evaporator Coil. ...
  5. Hissing or Bubbling Noises.

Can a thermostat cause short cycling?

Your thermostat could also cause the HVAC system to cycle on and off rapidly, a process known as short cycling.

Why does my AC stop blowing cold after a few minutes?

First, check your filters and coils for dirt and debris that may be impeding airflow. Once you've cleaned the filters and coils, run the air conditioner with just the fan so that the ice accumulation can melt off. If the AC still doesn't blow cold air, it could be that refrigerant levels are too low.

Why does my AC run for a few minutes then stops?

Typically, short cycling can come from an incorrect unit size or programmable thermostat problems. However, it could also be caused by neglected routine maintenance or something that might require a simple repair.

How often should my AC cycle be on and off?

Understanding how often your AC should turn on and off can help you maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home. Ideally, your AC should cycle two to three times per hour during normal weather conditions.

Can low Freon cause short cycling?

Refrigerant leaks not only compromise the cooling capacity of your AC system but can also lead to short-cycling. Low refrigerant levels disrupt the cooling cycle, causing the system to cycle on and off frequently in an attempt to reach the desired temperature.

How much does it cost to replace an AC breaker?

The average circuit breaker replacements costs between $100-$260 in the U.S. Installing or adding a new circuit breaker switch will cost anywhere from $150-$300, depending on type, amps, and circuit complexity/length.

How to clean air conditioner condenser coils?

These are the steps our technicians take to make your AC's outdoor coil clean and sparkly:
  1. Turn off power to the unit. ...
  2. Check the refrigerant pressure. ...
  3. Remove the outer casing. ...
  4. Rinse the coil down with water. ...
  5. Spray the coil with cleaning chemicals. ...
  6. Re-rinse the coil with water.

Should I turn my AC off if it is short cycling?

Should I turn my AC off if it is short cycling? No, this is not necessary unless the evaporator coils are frozen, in which case, turn off your air conditioner to let the coils thaw.

Why does my AC turn on and off every 5 minutes?

Poor Airflow

If something blocks the flow of air, your AC needs to go into overdrive to make up for it, which could result in it overheating. And when your AC overheats, it shuts off to give the system a chance to cool down. Once cool, it turns back on again, and the vicious cycle of short cycling continues.

How much does it cost to fix a short cycling AC unit?

Central AC Short Cycling

Homeowners spend between $75 and $600 to deal with short cycling issues in their central AC systems.

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