Alpha Thermostat or Control Short Cycling

Furnace cycles on and off rapidly (every 1–5 minutes) without reaching set temperature.

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Possible Causes

Thermostat located near heat source or supply register, Incorrect thermostat anticipator or cycle rate setting, Loose thermostat wiring, Faulty Alpha control board timing circuit

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Turn off power before adjusting thermostat wiring.

  • Check thermostat location: Ensure it is not directly above a supply register, in direct sunlight, or near heat-producing appliances.
  • Review thermostat settings: Adjust cycle rate or heat anticipator according to thermostat manual for gas furnace operation.
  • Inspect wiring: Tighten all thermostat terminal screws and ensure no bare wires are touching.

If short cycling persists with proper thermostat setup, the Alpha control board may require evaluation.

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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5
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