The answer to 'heat pump short cycling' is that short cycling, where the heat pump turns on and off frequently, is a common issue that can have several potential causes. Short cycling can be caused by problems with the thermostat, refrigerant charge, airflow, or other components in the HVAC system.
Some common symptoms of short cycling include the heat pump turning on and off every few minutes, inconsistent temperatures in the home, and higher than normal energy bills. Addressing the root cause is important to fix the issue and prevent further damage to the heat pump.