As a homeowner, you know that your HVAC is one of the more expensive systems in your house to repair and replace. Naturally, you want to keep it in optimal condition for as long as possible! It is common for HVAC owners to wonder if it is okay to run an HVAC system continuously and what impacts there could be if you turn it on and off. Other homeowners think a constantly running HVAC fan can signal significant furnace issues. However, this isn’t always the case. If you want to learn more about your furnace fan and if it is all right to run HVAC continuously, read on!
What Does an HVAC Fan Do?
When thinking about your HVAC operation, there are a few factors you need to know when running your fan. Most central heating systems are forced air systems, meaning they push the air through the ductwork into the rooms to change the temperature of that space. This requires the presence of a furnace fan or blower. It is an essential component of your HVAC unit and your home’s heating and cooling as it is the primary part that forces air distribution. It pushes hot or cool air through the ductwork in different directions into all of the areas of your home.
Is It Safe to Continuously Run My HVAC Fan?
Your thermostat controls your home’s temperature, but did you know it also can control your furnace fan? Often, blowers run continuously because your thermostat is set to the “ON” setting rather than the “AUTO” setting. The fan will constantly blow air into your room if you have the thermostat turned “ON.” If it is on “AUTO,” it will only turn the fan on when heated air needs distribution. So yes, running HVAC continuously throughout the day and night is perfectly safe!
Benefits of Running an HVAC Continuously
Now that you know that you can safely run a fan continuously, here are some benefits of keeping that fan going!
Increase the Lifespan of Your HVAC
A common misconception about furnaces is that running your HVAC fan nonstop will cause it to give out early. However, this isn’t the case, especially with newer units designed to run 24/7. Consistent fan operation should not be an issue if your HVAC system was installed by experienced professionals. Additionally, it may help extend its lifespan! Letting your HVAC sit too long without running or operating in an on-again, off-again fashion can be stressful for the motor. Starting it multiple times an hour or a day can cause more problems than letting it run.
Better Air Quality Throughout the House
When you are constantly running your furnace fan, you are running air through the filter all the time. If you have a newer unit with a high-efficiency filter and UV light, the air is cleaned each time it passes through the filter. This will result in cleaner air throughout your home and less dust accumulating on your furniture and possessions. This is critical for those with allergies and beneficial for everyone’s health.
Improve Your Home Air Circulation
We all know that hot air rises, which explains why your attic, upper floors, and space near the ceilings are warmer than the air near the ground. This “stack effect” is why your basement or ground floors are usually chilly in the winter. However, running your HVAC fan can help balance the temperature throughout your home. When you continuously run your unit, it pulls the colder air from the lower levels of your home and combines it with the hotter air from upstairs. It helps regulate the temperature to an acceptable level throughout the house.
Lower Your Monthly Bills
New ENERGY STAR-rated furnace motors are built to run continuously. Each unit meets strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the government. This means they will use less energy performing the same tasks as less efficient heaters. Ultimately, these furnaces will eliminate energy waste and decrease your monthly utility bills. These units also reduce the demand for imported energy, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and lower energy costs for your home and the economy.
When Not to Run Your HVAC Fan
Although it is perfectly safe to run HVAC continuously, there are a few times you should shut it down. First, if your home is experiencing high summer temperatures and you have ductwork in the attic. It is difficult for even the best-insulated systems to fight off extreme temperatures. Running your furnace blower without air conditioning could redistribute sweltering attic air throughout your home. Second, if your ductwork leaks, you must shut down your HVAC fan. Have your ductwork professionally inspected for airtightness to eliminate this issue!
How Do You Get the Most Life Out of Your HVAC?
The best way to ensure you get the maximum lifespan out of your HVAC is to have regular maintenance. Annual servicing is critical to diagnose any issues while they are still small. An HVAC professional can preemptively deal with any problems that arise, change filters, or any parts that need replacement or repairs.
Furnace filters must be replaced regularly to guarantee a longer life for your unit. Additionally, upgraded insulation, smart thermostats, and easy use can prolong the life of your HVAC!
How Apollo Heating and Air Can Help
Does your HVAC need maintenance in the Tri-Cities, Washington area? Apollo Heating and Air is here to help! We are experts in heating and cooling – our years of experience allow us quickly diagnose and fix any HVAC issue. We work with your needs, budget, and problems to decide the best course of action. Visit our website to check out our services, or fill out our HVAC maintenance request form. We look forward to helping you toward an efficiently heated home!
