What condition is most likely if the compressor is short cycling?

When an air conditioning compressor itself is short cycling while the fan continues to run, the most likely underlying condition is a tripped thermal overload switch caused by compressor overheating. This overheating is frequently triggered by a failing run capacitor, low refrigerant levels due to a leak which deprives the compressor of adequate cooling, or restricted airflow over the condenser coils. Another highly probable condition is an electrical fault, such as a failing compressor relay, a malfunctioning contactor, or loose electrical wiring that intermittently interrupts the power supply to the compressor motor. Additionally, an oversized air conditioning unit will naturally short cycle because it cools the immediate space around the thermostat far too quickly before adequately dehumidifying the home, causing the system to shut down prematurely and repeat the rapid cycle constantly.