The answer to 'central air short cycling' is that short cycling is when your air conditioning system turns on and off rapidly, running in short cycles instead of longer, more efficient cycles. This is a common problem that can have several potential causes, including issues with the thermostat, refrigerant leaks, problems with the compressor, or a system that is the wrong size for your home.
Short cycling can lead to higher energy bills, uneven cooling, and potential damage to the compressor over time. Some common symptoms include the AC turning on and off every 5-15 minutes, the house not cooling properly, and the compressor running but not blowing cold air.