Burnham Short Cycling Due to Oversizing or Control Issues

Boiler short cycles, turning on and off frequently without satisfying thermostat

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Possible Causes

Boiler oversized for load, Differential or cycle rate set too tight, Poor thermostat placement, Flow too low through boiler

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power before changing internal control settings.

  • Check thermostat location: Ensure the thermostat is not near heat sources, drafts, or direct sunlight, which can cause rapid cycling.
  • Review control settings: On Burnham controls, adjust the differential or anti-cycling time (if available) to allow longer run times between starts.
  • Verify flow: Make sure all relevant zone valves are open and circulators are operating so the boiler sees enough load.
  • Consider outdoor reset: If not already enabled, using the outdoor sensor and reset curve can reduce cycling by matching water temperature to load.
  • Consult a professional: If the boiler is significantly oversized, a technician may recommend control strategies or system modifications to reduce cycling.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5
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