Abstract: A method and apparatus of regulating cycles of a burner in a forced air heating system. A control unit uses a sensor at an output of a heat exchanger to make measurements of a temperature of air output from the heat exchanger. The control unit observes temperature measurements, after the burner has turned on. It initializes a confirmation interval when two consecutive temperature measurements are the same. If the temperature is the same at an end of the confirmation interval. The invention interrupts firing of the burner for an interrupt interval. The interrupt interval is insufficient to allow the heat exchanger to cool below a temperature useful for heating below which the circulation fan would shut off.

Abstract: To regulate a cooling system operation, a value from an energy value sensor such as a thermostat or pressuretrol is sensed and, if the value warrants a call for compressor operation, the call is made. The last compressor off-call-time is stored in memory. If the off-call-time is less than a short-cycle interval, the compressor is delayed to allow substantial compressor pressure equalization. Compressor operation is delayed further for a percentage of the off-call-time. compressor on-time is also measured and, if on for a substantial interval, the compressor is given a short rest. Improved efficiency results.