A system includes a variable-capacity compressor operable in a first capacity mode and in a second capacity mode that is higher than the first capacity mode. A control module is configured to switch the variable-capacity compressor between the first capacity mode and the second capacity mode based on a demand signal from the thermostat. The control module determines a number of previous consecutive operating cycles of the variable-capacity compressor in the first capacity mode within a predetermined period of time. The control module operates the variable-capacity compressor in the second capacity mode in response to the number of previous consecutive operating cycles of the variable-capacity in the first capacity mode within the predetermined period of time exceeding a predetermined threshold.