How do I fix my AC from short cycling?

Fixing an air conditioner that is short cycling requires a systematic troubleshooting approach to identify and resolve the root cause of the rapid on-and-off behavior. First, you should always start by checking and replacing your air filter if it is clogged with dust and debris, as restricted airflow is a primary cause of frozen coils and thermal shutdowns. Second, inspect the outdoor condensing unit to ensure that leaves, dirt, or tall grass are not blocking the fins and causing the system to overheat under high pressure. Third, check your thermostat settings, batteries, and placement to make sure it is not sending erratic signals or receiving false readings from direct sunlight or drafts. If these basic steps do not resolve the issue, you will need to contact a licensed HVAC professional to test electrical components like the run capacitor and contactor, check system refrigerant levels for leaks, and verify proper equipment sizing.