However, they can eventually burn out, so if your AC unit's blower motor is old, it might be time for a new one. One sign of a faulty blower motor is an air conditioner that still runs without blowing cool air. Remember: If the blower motor stops working, air is not moving through the system.
Your AC's blower motor is responsible for moving air through your air conditioner to cool it and then pushing it back out into your home. Without this incredible component, your AC can't provide any cooling effect, no matter how much the compressor runs.
A blower motor is the part of an AC or furnace that controls the amount of air pushed through the air handler. A motor's performance can largely affect air conditioners' functionality in meeting industry standards. Blower motors typically come in two types – single-speed blower motors and multi-speed blower motors.
If the blower motor is going bad, it will struggle to operate the fan. The result will be weak airflow coming from the vents inside your living spaces. This airflow issue can be one of the main symptoms that indicate the component needs to be replaced.
Blower motors are designed to last just as long as your furnace itself, anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Just as with any HVAC system, the better maintained and serviced your equipment is by experienced HVAC technicians the longer it will last and the fewer repairs you'll face.
Blower Motor Resistor Test
Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect. Okay, let's say there's no melting going on, but your fan doesn't work on all speeds. Typically, if the fan will work on some speeds but not on others, the resistor is suspect.
The replacement of the blower motor is common and straightforward, so most shops will perform the repair — many on the same day.
If your blower motor is not functioning properly, it can't circulate air through your AC system, causing the evaporator coil to become too cold and eventually freeze up.
A Failed Motor
An HVAC blower motor will occasionally fail due to age, wearing out, or not being cleaned regularly. Symptoms may include strange noises, burning smells, or just plain refusing to turn on. If this happens and the motor is no longer operable, a new blower motor may be needed.
Although AC fan motors can last 10-15 years or more, a lack of regular maintenance can shorten their lifespan. Here are some signs you may need AC fan motor replacement.
What Does The Blower Motor Do? The blower motor controls the airflow for the heating and cooling system; it is one of the main components for the HVAC system to operate properly. The blower motor turns on the fan in your HVAC system, allowing the air to circulate out of the system and into the rooms of your home.
So what caused your air conditioner to stop working? Most likely, your AC system lost its charge of refrigerant. Or, due to an electrical fault, its compressor is not engaging when you turn on the system. Another possibility is that an internal obstruction is blocking the circulation of refrigerant.
Blowing the fuse cuts the power to the unit to prevent electrical damage. If your AC has shut down and won't start again, especially if you've noticed odd electrical behavior immediately before the shutdown, chances are the fuse has done its job and will need to be replaced.
Average Costs for Blower Motor Replacement
Standard Blower Motors: These might cost between $400-700, excluding labor. Advanced Multi-Speed or Variable-Speed Motors: These are generally more expensive, with costs ranging between $650-1250, not including labor.
Without the motion of the fans, the air will not be moved properly, and thus the until will not cool your home. The best way to keep your AC fan motor running properly is to ensure it gets regular maintenance and air conditioning repairs by a professional.
Some of the reasons a blower motor might fail are overheating, and excessive moisture. When dust, dirt, and debris build up, it can cause the windings and bearings to burn up more quickly.
If the motor is making rattling, clanking, or banging sounds, it may be because of a loose or broken part inside the system. Loud banging sounds are especially worrisome. They're usually a sign that something within the system is damaged or disconnected, potentially indicating the need to replace the blower motor.
It typically takes one to four hours for the technician to replace the AC fan motor. Normally, good technicians will check for other issues during this replacement. If more problems are found, they will be repaired as well.