Furnace inducer motor keeps running in Greater Vancouver

The inducer motor is the small fan that runs at the start of every cycle to clear the flue and prove proper venting before the burners light. If it keeps running non-stop, even when there is no call for heat, something in the control or safety chain is usually stuck. Here is what to know for your Greater Vancouver furnace.

What the Inducer Motor Does and Why It Stays On

The inducer (or draft) motor pulls combustion gases through the heat exchanger and out the vent, and a pressure switch confirms it is doing its job before the furnace allows ignition. Normally it runs only during the startup sequence and for a short post-purge after the burners shut off. If it runs continuously, the furnace control may be stuck waiting for a signal it never receives.

Common causes include a control board that is not ending the cycle, a thermostat sending a continuous heat call, or a pressure switch or wiring fault that keeps the board in a startup loop. A blocked vent can also keep the inducer running while the furnace tries and fails to prove draft.

• Confirm the thermostat is set to Auto and not stuck calling for heat
• Check that exterior intake and exhaust pipes are clear of leaves, snow, or nests
• Note whether the burners ever light or the inducer just runs alone

When to Bring In a Technician

If the thermostat is set correctly and the vents are clear but the inducer still will not stop, the issue is inside the furnace's control and safety circuit. A stuck pressure switch, a faulty control board, or a venting problem all require a licensed technician, since they involve combustion safety and electrical components.

A running inducer that cannot prove draft can indicate a venting concern, so do not ignore it. If you ever smell exhaust or gas, leave the home and call your gas utility's emergency line first, then arrange service.

• Have a technician test the pressure switch and control board
• Do not bypass the pressure switch or any safety device
• Treat any exhaust or gas odour as an emergency: leave and call the gas utility

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it normal for the inducer motor to run all the time?

No. It should run during startup and for a brief post-purge, then stop. Continuous running usually means the control board, pressure switch, or thermostat is keeping the furnace in a startup state.

Can a blocked vent keep the inducer running?

Yes. If the inducer cannot establish proper draft because the vent is blocked, the furnace may keep it running while it waits for the pressure switch to close. Clearing exterior vents is a safe homeowner check.

Is a constantly running inducer dangerous?

It points to a venting or control fault that should be addressed, since proper draft is a combustion-safety function. If you smell exhaust or gas, leave the home and call your gas utility's emergency line before anything else.

Why does the inducer run but the burners never light?

The burners only fire once the pressure switch confirms draft. If that signal never arrives, the furnace stays in startup with the inducer running and the burners off, which a technician should diagnose.

HeatLand Heating & Cooling is a licensed and insured, TSBC-certified HVAC company serving homeowners across Greater Vancouver. Our technicians diagnose the real fault, explain your options in plain language, and complete the work safely and to code.

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