receiver

All receivers run constantly if connected to power. Maybe this one is just noisier than the old one.

IF it's a DVR --it always one no matter what the receiver status 

All receivers run whether you have them "on" or not. Otherwise the guide info would have to download every time you went to watch TV. So "off" is more of a standby mode.

By "runs constantly" do you mean it is noisy, such as the fan? What model is the new box? What is the model of the one it replaced (to check for any differences)?

I don't have the model numbers.  But the receiver they gave me was used.  It had recordings on it and future scheduled recordings and the receiver itself is all scratched up.  Not happy. Been with directv since the dish came out.

All Receivers are USED --If your unhappy with it --I suggest you call 1-800-531-5000 and tell them them replacement will NOT power ON -it's Now DOA.  

If you Keep the Receiver --DO this using the remote- Menu --Settings--RESET OPTIONS -Select --RESET to Defaults --that will clear all the old recording 

Receiver should be refurbished into like new condition. That would include resetting box back to factory defaults which clears prior recordings.

Since this box still had prior settings on it, then it did not go through proper refurbishing. I would call DirecTV back. Yes not powering on (so DoA) would reduce how much troubleshooting they could even try before getting another replacement. Still mention that the box had all that info before it couldn't power on, so they know it wasn't refurbished to begin with.