A furnace that runs continuously can lead to discomfort and unexpectedly high heating bills, especially during the chilly Philadelphia winters. Here are six possible reasons why your furnace might be running non-stop and what you can do about it.

1. Thermostat Settings If your thermostat is set too high or if it's malfunctioning, your furnace might be working overtime to reach and maintain the set temperature.

Solution: Check the thermostat settings and lower the temperature a few degrees to see if the furnace shuts off. If the problem persists, you might need a new thermostat.

2. Dirty Air Filter A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to run longer to circulate enough warm air throughout your home.

Solution: Replace the air filter if it’s dirty. This is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve the efficiency of your furnace.

3. Inadequate Insulation Poor insulation in your home can lead to heat loss, causing your furnace to run continuously to try to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Solution: Check the insulation in your attic, walls, and around your windows and doors. Upgrading your insulation can help keep the heat in and reduce the need for constant heating.

4. Faulty Thermostat Sensor A faulty sensor in your thermostat can misread indoor temperatures, causing your furnace to run excessively.

Solution: If recalibrating the thermostat doesn’t work, replace the sensor or the entire thermostat unit.

5. Leaky Ductwork Leaking or poorly sealed ducts can lose a lot of heated air, forcing your furnace to run more to compensate for the loss.

Solution: Inspect your ductwork for any leaks or poor connections. Seal any leaks with duct tape or mastic sealant and insulate ducts where necessary.

6. Oversized Furnace If your furnace is too large for your space, it will heat your home quickly and then shut off, a cycle known as short cycling. This constant on-and-off operation might seem like it's running all the time.

Solution: Have a professional assess the size of your furnace. If it's too large, your only option may be to replace it with a correctly sized unit.

Conclusion If your furnace is running non-stop, addressing the issue sooner rather than later can help you maintain a comfortable home environment and manage your energy bills. Regular maintenance checks and addressing these common issues can ensure that your furnace operates efficiently and effectively. For complex problems, always consult with a professional HVAC technician.