Should You Leave Your Furnace Fan Running?Published: October 15, 2021

Many types of HVAC systems have fans that can be turned off and on independently, and one of the most frequent questions we get from homeowners is if it is okay to run the fan when the furnace is on. In today’s post, Cellino Plumbing Heating & Cooling, local heating and air conditioning company in Buffalo will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of running your furnace fan.

 Advantages: 

Balanced Indoor Temperatures
As warm air rises, it naturally accumulates near the ceiling. And since cold air usually collects on lower levels of buildings and homes (near ground level), running your furnace fan can help keep indoor temperatures balanced by constantly circulating air throughout your home.

Lower Heating Costs
Many types of furnaces come equipped with variable speed fans that can be run at all times, minimizing heat loss and energy usage from the furnace.

Better Performance
By using less heating power, you reduce the likelihood of needing unexpected repairs. This also reduces strain on your furnace and prevents it from redlining, which can cause damage or failure in some cases.

Improved Indoor Air Quality
The constant air movement through your HVAC system’s filter helps remove contaminants such as debris, dust, and mold from your home’s indoor air.  

Disadvantages: 
Before you decide to keep your furnace fan running at all times, there are a few things to consider. First, running the fan constantly means that air filters will have to be cleaned more frequently and replaced once they become clogged. Homeowners will likely have to replace their HVAC filter much more often than usual when they go this route.

Secondly, if you have ductwork running through your attic, it is crucial to ensure there are no leaks. If the furnace is turned off and the fan continues running, it can pull heat into your home during summer if the roof does not have proper ventilation. We recommend calling an HVAC technician for repair of any leaks in the ductwork as well as insulation installation, if necessary.