If a new thermostat is installed but the burner cycle is too short, what is the most likely issue?

When a new thermostat is installed and the burner cycle is too short, one of the most likely issues is that the anticipator needs adjusting. The anticipator is a component within the thermostat that helps control the burner operation by anticipating the room’s heating needs based on the set temperature. If it is set too high, the thermostat may prematurely shut off the burner before the desired temperature is reached, resulting in short cycling. Adjusting the anticipator to a lower setting allows the system to run longer, helping achieve a more stable and comfortable temperature.

The thermostat being set incorrectly could lead to other problems, but typically this would not specifically cause short cycles. A dead battery might stop the thermostat from functioning altogether, while damaged wiring usually leads to more significant and noticeable issues such as the thermostat failing to communicate with the heating system. Hence, in the context of burner cycling, adjusting the anticipator is the most suitable action to address the issue.