Is Your Furnace Working Overtime?

With the arrival of November, we are quickly reminded how close we are to plummeting temperatures and winter on the prairies. As the weather gets colder, our furnace becomes one of the most necessary and important appliances in the home. As you start using your furnace more, you might notice that it seems to be running constantly. While this could mean something is wrong, don’t immediately panic. It is important, however, to understand what’s normal and what might indicate a more serious issue. 

In today’s blog, we want to discuss how you can ensure your furnace runs smoothly and effectively, keeping your home cozy and comfortable in the months ahead. 

Why Is My Furnace Constantly Running? 

Here are some reasons why you might notice your furnace working overtime: 

Air filter 

One of the most common reasons for your furnace running more often is a dirty or clogged air filter. When airflow becomes restricted, your furnace must work harder to keep warm air circulating throughout your home. Check the filter regularly and replace it as needed. 

Thermostat settings 

Check your thermostat settings and make sure the fan is set to “AUTO.” If it’s set to “ON,” the furnace fan will continue to run even when the furnace isn’t actively heating. When set to “AUTO,” the fan will only run when needed to circulate heated air. Be sure to set your desired temperature to keep your home comfortable. 

Another issue could be a malfunctioning thermostat. Sometimes, the wiring can become loose or deteriorate, or the thermostat might fail altogether. A professional can help determine whether the thermostat is causing the problem and whether it needs to be replaced. 

You might also want to consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for added convenience and efficiency. 

Fan limit switch 

Your furnace’s blower motor powers the fan that circulates warm air throughout your home. A component called a fan limit switch helps regulate when the blower turns on and off. It monitors the temperature inside the furnace and signals the blower when it’s time to start circulating warm air and when to stop. If the switch becomes faulty, it may not signal the blower to shut off properly, causing the fan to run continuously, even when it’s not needed. 

This issue requires the help of a professional, so be sure to give us a call rather than trying to fix it on your own. 

Air ducts 

Your ductwork carries heated air from your furnace to the different rooms in your home. If there are leaks, some of that warm air escapes into unheated spaces like your attic, basement or walls before it reaches your living areas. This means less warm air makes it into your home, forcing your furnace to work longer and harder to maintain the temperature set on your thermostat. 

If you have leaky air ducts, you might notice hot or cold spots in your home, increased dust or higher utility bills. In this situation, it’s best to contact a professional like the Action team to inspect your ductwork and explore the best solutions for your home. 

In some cases, your furnace might be experiencing wiring, switch or heating sensor issues, or problems with the furnace control board. These issues are another reason to contact a professional to help identify the problem and discuss possible repairs or a replacement furnace. 

At Action Plumbing, we understand the important role your furnace plays in your home. If you have any questions or are experiencing issues with your furnace, please give our team of experts a call. We are here to offer guidance and repairs to help ensure your home stays warm and comfortable.