But in general, your furnace should not constantly be running. Otherwise, it could indicate a problem with your
Malfunctioning Thermostat or Incorrect Thermostat Setting
Your furnace could be running constantly because either your thermostat isn't set correctly or is malfunctioning and not properly signaling the furnace when to turn on and off.
So long as it's powerful enough to keep the house at the right temperature on the most extreme days of the year, running for longer periods of time is a good thing.
If your heater won't turn off, the first thing you do is check the thermostat. The thermostat controls how the heating system runs. It detects the indoor temperature and signals the furnace to start or stop. So, if the thermostat malfunctions, it can signal the unit to run continuously.
Furnaces typically run for about 10 to 15 minutes in moderate weather. Extreme cold can result in longer cycle times. Positive and negative factors that can affect furnace run time include: Sizing: A furnace correctly sized for heating the area operates more efficiently.
As long as the furnace is running efficiently and not making strange noises, the constant operation is likely nothing to worry about. But in general, your furnace should not constantly be running. Otherwise, it could indicate a problem with your heating system.
The Average Runtime for Furnaces
HVAC maintenance companies explain that a furnace will normally perform an average of two to three cycles in an hour, with each cycle lasting 10 to 15 minutes.
A faulty thermostat can cause your heating unit to run and not turn off. The unit may have a broken heating sensor, the wiring may have gone bad, or the switch itself may have broken. The older the thermostat is, the more at risk you are for this happening. Fortunately, a broken thermostat is an extremely easy fix.
The problem might be a faulty timer, pump, thermostat, heat exchanger, or a motorised valve. It is also possible for a malfunctioning programmer to cause issues of non-stop heating. In some cases, a blown fuse, faulty wiring, or problem with the circuit may be responsible for the problem.
A bad thermostat can be detected when your AC or furnace is not turning on, your HVAC systems are not turning off, the thermostat not responding, your HVAC system is short-cycling, the room temperature not matching the temperature displayed on the thermostat, and the programmed setting resetting themselves.
Heat pumps are designed to constantly run when winter hits and the weather outside gets cold. As temperatures drop below 30 degrees, your home's heat demand matches the production of the heat pump, requiring it to run continuously to move warm air through the home.
How many hours a day should the heating be on? Due to the current increase in energy bills, it is recommended that you do not have your heating on 24/7. This will not only result in extremely expensive heating bills, but excessive energy being used also negatively affects the environment.
Typically, a furnace should cycle three to eight times per hour. While furnace cycling is normal, frequent cycling can indicate that your heating is struggling to keep up. We've put together this guide to help you understand the difference between normal furnace cycling and short cycling.
It isn't bad to run your heating system on a 24/7 basis if outdoor weather conditions demand indoor warmth. For many households, maintaining a constant indoor temperature is the only way to survive the winter. Just be aware that this is likely to cause additional wear and tear on your heating system.
If your heating doesn't turn off, the issue probably lies with the programmer/timer/thermostat, which may be different units or part of the same unit.
If the thermostat isn't the issue, it may be the heating unit itself. The primary controller dictates when the unit turns on and off. If it's not working properly, it can no longer control this, and your heater may run continuously. Your primary controller will need to be replaced by a professional.
If your home radiators will not switch off even when the central heating isn't on, the most likely cause of the issue is troubles with a diverter or check valve. Should the valves become damaged or blocked, they can continue to transport hot water to your radiators even when the thermostat is switched off.
Check the ductwork.
As air flows through your ductwork, seals and joints loosen. That can create leaks. Other leaks may also develop. Leaky ductwork makes it hard for your furnace to reach and stay at your set temperature, meaning it will run longer and more often.
If your thermostat is not working properly, it may not be able to accurately read the temperature in your home or properly communicate with your furnace. This can cause your furnace to run continuously, even if your home is already at the desired temperature.
If someone is at home in the daytime, 72° F (22° C) is a good start, but aim for 68° F (20° C). If everyone is away from home in the daytime or you're asleep at night, we feel 66° F (19° C) to 62° F (17° C) is best.
Laws That Prohibit Utility Cut-Off During Extreme Weather
Most northern states prohibit the termination of heat-related utilities during the winter. Other states protect households with elderly or disabled residents, and occasionally households with infants. Usually, you must show financial hardship to qualify.
The most economical way to manage your central heating is to turn it on for 8 to 10 hours per day. Program thermostatic radiator valves to come on about half an hour before you wake up and switch off a half hour after you go to bed.
Unless you also have a heat pump (which can cause your unit to run frequently to maintain a set temperature during extremely cold weather), your furnace should cycle on and off at regular intervals.
Running in 90-degree weather is a tough challenge, but with the right strategies, you can keep up with your routine safely. Remember to hydrate with electrolyte tabs, wear suitable clothing, adjust your running schedule, and listen to your body to prevent heat-related health issues.