What is a common issue if a furnace has an incorrect heat anticipatory setting?

An incorrect heat anticipatory setting in a furnace can lead to the unit cycling too frequently. The heat anticipator is a component that helps the thermostat predict when the desired temperature will be reached. A miscalibration can cause the thermostat to turn the furnace on and off too often. This happens because the anticipator may mistakenly sense that the furnace has reached or will reach the set temperature sooner than it actually does, leading to premature shutdowns. Consequently, the furnace repeatedly starts and stops in a short period, causing excessive cycling that can lead to increased wear and tear on the system and reduce overall efficiency.

Understanding the function of the heat anticipator is essential for maintaining optimal furnace performance and ensuring energy efficiency in heating systems.