Are you struggling to maintain optimal airflow in your home? You might have a problem with your HVAC blower motor. The blower motor manages the power behind the hot and cool air circulating out from your HVAC system. This essential component of your HVAC system is responsible for evenly distributing heat, improving energy efficiency, and maximizing indoor ventilation.
Gaining a better understanding of blower motor function will help you to keep it running properly and recognize when it isn’t.
What Is a Blower Motor and Why Is It Important?
The HVAC blower motor is an essential piece of any HVAC system. This component provides power to the blow fan, which is needed to keep air moving through the system properly. The blower motor helps ensure consistent heating or cooling throughout the home. It also helps improve indoor air quality. When your blow motor operates efficiently, it can also help improve energy efficiency and lower your energy bills.
How Does a Blower Motor Work in an HVAC System?
The HVAC blower motor is the component that turns on your system’s fan, pushing the hot or cold air out of the unit and into your home. Air heating systems such as electric and gas furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini-splits all utilize a blower motor to transfer this air.
Anytime your thermostat communicates to your heating or cooling system that the temperature settings are not being met, your system will kick on. It’s the job of your blower motor to then operate the fan to circulate that produced air.
Types of Blower Motors and Their Benefits
There are different types of blower motors, and each operates slightly differently. Here's how the most common options compare:
- Single-Speed: This motor will run at a single speed and turn off when the set temperature is reached. Single-speed blower motors tend to be less expensive and easier to install. However, they aren't as energy-efficient and are more susceptible to general wear and tear.
- Variable Speed: This motor will constantly run at various lower speeds to continue air circulation throughout your home. The demand for air will determine the variation in speed that this motor will provide. For these reasons, a variable motor is typically more energy-efficient and creates a more consistent temperature.
- Direct Current Motors: These are an energy-efficient option that automatically adjusts airflow based on the system's output. These HVAC blower motors are an investment and typically require professional installation.
- Permanent Split Capacitor: These motors are set at a fixed speed, making them less energy-efficient than other options. You also have less control over the airflow of the system.
Where to Locate the Blower Motor in Your HVAC System
The exact HVAC blower motor location will vary slightly depending on the system type and model. For most furnaces, your blower motor will be located in the base of the unit next to the air filter. For most ACs and heat pumps, it will be located inside the air handler (i.e., the indoor unit). It’s also possible that certain units may share a blower motor in the air handler—typically with an AC and furnace.
For a mini-split system, each indoor unit will have its own blower motor that is typically located behind the air handler casing and between the control panel and the fan blade.
In some cases, your blower motor may be tucked behind many wires and parts, so if you’re not having any luck locating it in your unit, it’s best to leave the navigation and service to the experts.
Signs Your Blower Motor Might Need Attention
If you notice weak airflow, humming noises, or uneven heating or cooling, your HVAC blower motor might not be operating correctly. Blower motors typically last around 10 to 20 years, so if your HVAC system is older, it may be time to invest in a replacement.
Here are other common signs to look for:
- Weak or zero airflow from vents
- Unusual noises or smells coming from the HVAC unit
- Higher energy bills for the same amount of heated or cooled air
- A burning smell caused by overheating
- Rattling or humming noises coming from your HVAC system
Though you could be spot-on in assuming your blower motor needs replacing, it’s possible there are one or more other concurrent issues with your HVAC system. HVAC systems require regular maintenance and annual inspections to run properly. To avoid costly replacements and ongoing issues, schedule regular maintenance with your local Aire Serv®. We offer residential and commercial HVAC services.
Related Topic: What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?
Simple Maintenance Tips for Blower Motors
With proper maintenance and preventative care, you can extend the longevity of your HVAC blower motor and improve operational efficiency. Here are some steps you can take to keep your blower motor in excellent condition:
- Replace your air filters every six to nine months.
- Keep the motor bearings lubricated.
- Check and replace the fan belt if you notice signs of wear and tear.
- Remove any dirt, grime, or dust to avoid clogged filters.
- Schedule a maintenance checkup with an Aire Serv professional.
Whether your blower motor is old or experiencing other issues, the Aire Serv team is here to help you improve your blower motor function.
Related Topic: How to Clean a Gas Furnace
When to Consider Replacing the Blower Motor
Some problems can't be fixed with simple maintenance. If your blower motor is over 10-15 years old, it might be time to consider a replacement. You may also need to replace your system if you have ongoing temperature control, electrical, or fan issues.
If you need to replace your blower motor, consider upgrading to a variable-speed motor. These motors are more energy-efficient and last longer than the other standard models, offering long-term saving opportunities and improving the overall performance of your HVAC system.
Let Aire Serv Troubleshoot Your Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor is the power behind your HVAC’s air circulation. If it’s not operating at peak efficiency, your home won’t be able to easily reach its normal, comfortable temperature. If you suspect a faulty or broken blower motor, contact your local Aire Serv professional. We respond promptly to emergency needs and have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and fix the problem so you and your family stay comfortable throughout the year. Give us a call today or request an appointment online to get started.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Aire Serv is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Aire Serv location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.
FAQs About HVAC Blower Motors
As an industry leader and a brand that is trusted by homeowners and businesses nationwide for our knowledge and experience, we’re happy to answer your HVAC questions. Here are answers to some of the frequently asked questions about your heating and cooling blower motor.
What does the HVAC blower motor do?
The blower motor is an electric motor responsible for circulating air, serving an essential role within an HVAC system. It powers a fan, often called a blower wheel or cage, to move air through the ductwork and into the living spaces.
In heating mode, the blower motor pushes air across the heat exchanger to distribute warm air. In cooling mode, it circulates air over the evaporator coil to deliver chilled air. The blower motor's speed can be adjusted to control airflow, contributing to consistent temperature and comfort throughout a building.
Do a furnace and AC use the same blower?
Yes, in most modern residential HVAC systems, a single blower motor is used for both the furnace (heating) and the air conditioner (cooling).
The blower motor is typically located within the furnace unit, where it powers a fan that moves air through the ductwork. When the furnace is heating, the blower motor pushes air across the heat exchanger, distributing the warmed air throughout your home. When the air conditioner is cooling, the same blower motor circulates air across the evaporator coil of the AC unit, distributing the chilled air.
How do I know when I need to replace my HVAC blower motor?
An HVAC professional can provide the most accurate recommendation of when to replace a blower motor in a residential or commercial HVAC system. However, some common warning signs that your motor may be failing include:
- Weak or no airflow: If you notice significantly less air coming from your vents, or no air at all, the blower motor might be failing to circulate air properly.
- Unusual noises: Strange sounds like rattling, screeching, grinding, or banging coming from your unit when it's running can indicate a problem with the motor's components, such as worn bearings or loose parts.
- Intermittent operation: If the blower fan starts and stops sporadically without the thermostat changing, the motor may be struggling to run consistently.
- Overheating: A burning smell coming from your vents or the furnace shutting down frequently could mean the motor is overheating and may be near failure.
- Increased energy bills: A failing motor might draw more power to operate, leading to a sudden and unexplained rise in your electricity costs.
Is it possible to repair a failing blower motor, or does it always need to be replaced?
Minor issues with a blower motor, such as loose wiring or a faulty capacitor, may be repairable. However, if the motor windings are damaged, the bearings are worn out, or the motor is consistently overheating, replacement is usually the most reliable and cost-effective solution. Repairing a severely damaged furnace blower with a motor may only provide a temporary fix and could lead to further problems.
Can a dirty air filter cause the motor blower to fail?
Yes, a dirty air filter is a very common cause of blower motor problems and premature failure. When the filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it restricts airflow. This restriction forces the blower motor to work much harder to move air through the system. The increased strain can lead to overheating, increased energy consumption, and eventually motor failure. Regular air filter replacement is important to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your entire HVAC system, including the blower motor.
How can I prolong the life of my HVAC blower motor?
Here are some essential maintenance tips to extend the lifespan of your blower motor:
- Replace air filters regularly: This is the most critical step. Check your filter monthly and replace it when it's dirty—typically every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and air quality.
- Schedule regular HVAC system maintenance: Service professionals will inspect and clean the blower motor and other components. They can also identify potential issues before they lead to costly repairs.
- Ensure proper ventilation: Make sure vents and registers are not blocked by furniture or other objects. Ensure your system has adequate airflow to reduce strain on the blower motor.
- Address unusual noises promptly: If you hear any strange sounds coming from your HVAC unit, don't ignore them. Contact a qualified service professional to diagnose and fix the issue before it causes more significant damage to the blower motor or other components
