What Happens When Your AC Blower Motor Fails?

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What Happens When Your AC Blower Motor Fails?

28 August 2023
 Categories: , Blog


Your AC unit usually works perfectly fine and continues to deliver chilled air to your home. But when it breaks, it suddenly loses the ability to chill your home, and you might find it unbearable when it is sweltering outside. One particular component that can break in an AC unit is the blower motor. 

What Does the Blower Motor Do?

Simply put, a blower motor is a component that turns on your system's fan that moves hot and cold air into and out of your home. Air heating systems such as electric and gas furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, and mini splits utilize a blower motor to transfer this air. For most ACs, the blower motor will be inside the air handler.

Why Is It Important? 

A blower motor is vital for an AC unit because it distributes the cooled air throughout your home. It helps the AC cool your home efficiently. A blower motor also helps remove excess humidity from your indoor air, improving your comfort and preventing mold growth.

Unfortunately, blower motors often fail due to various reasons.

Wear and Tear

Over time, the moving parts of the blower motor can wear out or break down, causing reduced performance or complete failure.

Dirt and Dust

Maintaining regular cleaning of the blower motor is essential to prevent the buildup of dirt and dust on the fan blades, bearings, and other parts. Overlooking this necessary step might cause problems such as friction and overheating.

Electrical Issues

Faulty wiring, loose connections, power surges, or short circuits can damage the blower motor or its capacitor, preventing it from starting or running properly.

Improper Installation

If the blower motor is not installed correctly or matched with the right size and type of AC unit, it can cause stress on the motor and reduce its lifespan.

How Can an AC Repair Technician Fix It?

If your AC unit is not blowing any air or making strange noises, contact a repair technician promptly. The extent of the damage will determine whether the entire blower motor unit, including the motor, fan, and housing, needs to be replaced or if individual parts can be swapped out.

A blower motor moves air throughout your household. If it fails, call a professional to determine whether it can be repaired and to look for other potential problems affecting the performance of your unit. Doing so can ensure that your AC unit is able to cool your home efficiently.

Contact an AC repair technician to learn more.