A heat pump fan that won’t turn off can raise energy bills, shorten equipment life, and indicate underlying system problems. This article explains why the heat pump fan not turning off occurs, how to diagnose the issue, step-by-step troubleshooting, safety considerations, likely repair costs, and preventive maintenance tips.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Fan runs continuously | Thermostat fan set to ON, stuck relay, or wiring fault | Set fan to AUTO, reset thermostat |
| Fan runs after cycle ends | Run-on timer or control board delay | Wait 60–120 seconds; test board |
| Fan runs with compressor off | Stuck contactor or relay | Power off and inspect contactor |
| Intermittent stops/starts | Failing fan motor or capacitor | Check capacitor and motor amp draw |
A constantly running blower increases electricity usage and can cause temperature imbalances, excess humidity removal in winter, or insufficient humidity retention. Continuous operation may also wear bearings and increase maintenance needs.
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FAQs
Is it harmful if the fan runs all the time?
Continuous running is not immediately dangerous, but it increases wear and energy costs and may indicate underlying electrical faults that could escalate if not addressed.
Can a dirty filter make the fan run nonstop?
A very dirty filter can cause the system to run longer to maintain set temperatures, but it usually does not cause the fan to never shut off. Still, a clogged filter stresses motors and should be replaced.
Will replacing the thermostat fix the issue?
Replacing a malfunctioning thermostat often resolves fan control issues, especially when the thermostat fails to switch the G circuit properly. Confirm wiring and rule out control board faults first.
Key Diagnostic Tips For Technicians
Measure control voltages at the thermostat and air handler, verify relay coil status versus control signals, and perform motor amp draw tests to detect motor wear or mechanical binding. Check for stored diagnostic codes on the control board for faster fault isolation.
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Applying these steps will help identify why a heat pump fan not turning off and guide appropriate repairs to restore efficient, reliable operation.
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