Weak or Absent Airflow
Weak airflow or total lack of it is the most obvious sign of a bad blower motor. The problem could be due to a clogged blower from accumulated dust or debris. It could also be due to leaky air ducts or a bad capacitor.
Cost for a single-stage blower motor could run between $300 and $900, while cost for a variable-speed blower could be between $600 and $1,500. Remember, though, the higher upfront costs for a variable-speed blower motor will be offset by reduced monthly energy bills.
Undo the screws on the motor to remove the belly band. The rotation of the motor needs to match the direction of the fans, so position them accordingly. Attach the new motor to the belly band. Center the new motor on the fan wheel, fasten the bolts, and connect the capacitor.
One of the most prevalent factors that can cause a blower motor to stop working is a blown fuse. A fuse prevents electrical circuits from an excessive flow of current that may run in them. Over time or due to any sudden surge, it might blow the fuse and cut power to the blower motor.
Signs of Trouble: Watch out for wobbling blades, unusual noises, or sluggish fan speeds. These could indicate worn-out parts, loose connections, or a failing motor, all signs it might be time for a replacement.
Strange Rattling, Clanking, or Screeching
One of the first signs you may notice when there's an issue with the blower motor is a strange noise coming from the indoor unit or air handler.
A failing blower motor may emit unusual sounds. This may sound like screeching or squealing if it has bad bearings. You may hear a rattle or a banging sound if something inside the motor has broken or come loose.
In general, it can take two to three hours to replace a typical blower motor. If a highly qualified technician has the part in stock, it can take as little as 1.5 hours.
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.
How Long Does a Furnace Blower Motor Last? 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.
Unscrew the blower cover. Give the blower time to cool down completely before proceeding. Push the reset button (typically a red button behind the blower motor).
A non-working furnace fan typically stems from electrical issues, mechanical failures, or control problems. Start troubleshooting by checking your circuit breaker, thermostat settings, and air filter condition.
With the right tools and careful attention to safety, most homeowners can successfully install a ceiling fan in just a few hours. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, whether you're replacing an existing light fixture or installing a brand-new fan.
The motor won't spin – If the rotor that holds the fan blower wheel won't spin or is hard to spin, it's a good sign that the blower motor is shot. Once again, if the motor is getting proper voltage and the capacitor is good, but the blower won't freely spin, it may have seized, which is not uncommon.
Make sure that the power cord hasn't melted or a fuse hasn't been blown. If your cables are looking fine, try unplugging the fan for a few minutes and then plugging it back in again. Sometimes, this process can reset the motor and solve your furnace problems.
The replacement of the blower motor is common and straightforward, so most shops will perform the repair — many on the same day.
Faulty Blower Motor
If your blower motor is experiencing some issues, you may hear a high-pitched squeal or whistling sound. You may also experience rattling and loud screeching noises. The motor blower pushes warm air out of the furnace through the ducts into your home.