Furnace Blower Motor: How It Works and Troubleshooting Tips
A furnace blower motor is an essential part of your house’s HVAC system. These motors are used to push air throughout your home, resulting in convenient cooling and heating. If the motor malfunctions, your family may not receive the comfort level they expect. It’s important to understand how a furnace blower motor works, how to maintain it, and how to know when it needs to be replaced. Here’s a guide to help you understand how to keep your furnace blower motor running at optimal performance.
What Is a Furnace Blower Motor?
A furnace blower motor is an electric motor found in the combustion chamber of a furnace. It powers a fan that forces hot air past the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger then sends the hot air into the ducts of the home. Furnace blower motors typically run on single or three phase power supplies, and have various types of speed settings that can be used to regulate air flow.
How Does a Furnace Blower Motor Work?
A furnace blower motor is powered by electricity that circulates air over a heat exchanger, located in the chamber of the furnace. The heat exchanger heats the air and then pushes it through the return ducts, which carries the hot air throughout your home. Your furnace blower motor is the pump that pushes the warm air from the chamber of the furnace to the ducts.
Furnace Blower Motor Maintenance
It’s important to keep your furnace blower motor properly maintained so it will last longer. The motor should be inspected and lubricated on a regular basis to make sure it’s running at peak performance. Be sure to check for loose wires and other signs of wear. You may also want to have your furnace blower motor inspected for any particles that may have been stuck inside the motor, as these could damage the wiring. You can also check the temperature of the motor to make sure it’s not running too hot.
Knowing When to Replace Your Furnace Blower Motor
Sometimes, even with proper maintenance, your furnace blower motor may need to be replaced. There are a few signs to watch out for.
If your motor is making strange noises, such as screeching, grinding, or humming, it may be time to replace it. Likewise, if the motor is not pushing air through the vents, or if the air being pushed is too weak, it could be due to a faulty motor. You should also check for leaks around the motor, as this could indicate that the motor needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
If your furnace blower motor is malfunctioning, it’s important to have it replaced or repaired as soon as possible to keep your home warm and comfortable. It’s important to understand how the motor works and how to maintain it in order for it to last. If you would like to learn more about furnace blower motors, feel free to visit AC Installation & Repair, or give us a call at (866) 516-1222 to speak to one of our experienced technicians.
Preventive Action to Avoid Furnace Blower Motor Issues
1. Cleaning:
It is important to regularly check and clean the furnace blower motor and surrounding area. This should include the debris, cobwebs, and any accumulated dust and dirt around the motor, which can reduce its efficiency. Also check the connections to the motor and make sure they are secure.
2. Lubrication:
For proper furnace operation, the motor must be lubricated on a regular basis. This is usually done by applying a lubricant such as oil or grease to the motor's bearings. The exact type of lubricant and how often it should be applied varies depending on the model of the furnace, so it is important to check the manufacturer's instructions for the proper steps.
3. Inspect Fan Blades:
It is also important to inspect the fan blades for damage or cracks. If the blades are warped or damaged, they should be replaced immediately. If the blades are in good condition, regular lubrication and cleaning will help ensure that the furnace blower motor works properly.
4. Replace any Damaged Parts:
If any damaged or worn parts of the furnace are discovered, they must be replaced immediately. This will help ensure that the furnace blower motor is running properly and that any risk of further damage or breakdown is minimized.
5. Regular Maintenance:
It is also important to have the furnace blower motor and other components inspected and serviced annually by a qualified HVAC technician. This will help to prevent any issues that could lead to costly repairs or breakdowns. Additionally, having a qualified HVAC technician check the furnace blower motor will also help to ensure that it is running efficiently and safely.
FURNACE BLOWER MOTOR Repair Costs in San Diego
For repair costs of a furnace blower motor in San Diego, it's recommended to call Local Reliable Appliance Repair. The minimum repair or installation cost is typically around $80, depending on the part cost and labor necessary. Complex repairs or full installations can range from $150 to $200.
Common parts that will likely need to be replaced include a blower wheel, a motor run capacitor, and a blower motor relay. The cost for replacing these parts will depend on the brand, size, and type of motor you are replacing. Generally, a blower wheel can range from $40 to $80, a motor run capacitor from $30 to $125, and a blower motor relay from $10 to $50.
Labor will also be a factor when seeking repairs in San Diego. Overall service fees in San Diego typically range from $45 to $95 per hour. Thus, depending on the repair time, labor costs could be substantially higher than the parts cost.
Materials cost should also be taken into account. You may need to purchase additional wires or a fiberglass safety chimney for installation. Reliable Appliance will provide advice and a materials estimate when discussing your repair project.
When you need an reliable repair or installation for your furnace blower motor in San Diego, call Local Reliable Appliance Repair. They can provide a detailed estimate and offer expert advice on the best solutions.
How to Choose the Right Furnace Blower Motor
When it comes to furnace blower motors, one should consider a few key factors. The size, design, and horsepower of the motor should all be taken into account when making your decision. Additionally, the amount of noise and efficiency of the motor should be considered before making a purchase.
Finding a reliable, experienced HVAC and appliance repair company is essential when looking to purchase a blower motor. Local businesses like Reliable HVAC and Appliance Repair in San Diego are a great choice because they offer same-day service, expert technicians with a minimum of five years of experience, and affordable pricing. As a first-time customer, you can also take advantage of their $25 off labor offer.
By dealing with a reputable and experienced HVAC and appliance repair company, such as Reliable Appliance Repair, you can be sure that your new blower motor will be reliable, energy-efficient, and quiet. So, don't hesitate to contact Reliable Appliance Repair for all of your HVAC and appliance repair needs!
FAQ – Furnace Blower Motor: How It Works and Troubleshooting Tips
What is a Furnace Blower Motor?
A furnace blower motor is a motor inside your furnace that powers the fan that pushes hot air throughout your home. It is a vital component of your HVAC system and is responsible for controlling the heated air that is delivered to the rooms in your house.
How Does a Furnace Blower Motor Work?
A furnace blower motor has an electric motor that is connected to a fan blade. When the blower motor is activated, the fan blade spins and sends air through a series of ducts and out of vents. This airflow circulates heated air throughout the house and keeps the rooms warm.
What are Some Causes of a Furnace Blower Motor Not Working?
Some common causes of a furnace blower motor not working are a blown fuse, a defective circuit breaker, a mis-wired motor, and a broken motor. These can all be signs that your furnace blower motor is not working correctly and needs to be fixed or replaced.
What are Some Troubleshooting Tips for a Furnace Blower Motor?
If you're having trouble troubleshooting your furnace blower motor, the first step is to make sure the power is on and that the fuses and circuit breakers are not defective. Additionally, check that the motor is correctly wired, and inspect the motor for signs of damage.
When Should I Contact a Professional for Furnace Blower Motor Repairs?
If your furnace blower motor is not working correctly, it is best to contact a professional for repairs. A technician can inspect your furnace and determine what repairs are needed. If you are having trouble troubleshooting the problem, or if the motor is damaged, a professional can correctly diagnose and repair your furnace.
If you're having any issues with your furnace blower motor, it is best to call a reliable appliance repair technician at (866) 516-1222.