I used it non-stop for at least 20-25 minutes, continual feed as I was shredding stacks of old documents. Once it senses it is getting too hot it will shut-off automatically and a red signal light illuminates to let you know. Once the motor cools down sufficiently you can start reusing. I worked it hard for 3 straight days and have had it for 2 months with regular shredding intervals with no issues whatsoever.