Your HVAC: Condenser Fan Motors and Blower Motors

Every house has a different AC system. But some of the components are similar. Therefore, homeowners need to know about the types of HVAC motors, especially if they have a broken or malfunctioning HVAC system. An air conditioner fan motor's role is to drive the fan to keep the air moving in and out of the house. It is vital to blow the hot air outside and cold air inside through the ductwork. 

An HVAC unit's fan motor should be in great shape and running well for the AC unit to work efficiently.  If the HVAC unit is not cooling effectively, making odd sounds, or not generating enough airflow, it indicates a problem with the fan motor. 

Condenser fan motor

A condenser fan motor is installed in the condensing unit of the HVAC system located outdoors. It powers the fan blades to cool the refrigerant in the condensing coil. Since it is exposed to the elements, it is sealed on the sides and ends to keep water out. They usually come in horsepower ranging from 1/6hp to 1/3 hp. These motors generally have a dual capacitor and three wires. The main issue that surfaces during hot summers with a condenser fan motor is a bad capacitor. General wear and tear, and dirt and dust build-up due to low maintenance can affect its functioning, and make the indoor air warm due to poor airflow. A smooth running and well-maintained condenser fan motor reduces energy consumption, improves air quality, and extends your HVAC unit's life. 

Blower motor

A blower motor is located indoors to maintain a comfortable temperature inside the home. It is similar in appearance to the condenser fan motor, except the blower is ventilated on the sides or the ends to let the air pass through. A blower motor blows cold air through the ducts when the air conditioning system is in use. There are two types of blower motors, single-speed motors, that operate at one speed, and variable-speed motors, which adjust their speed to blow air at changing speed levels. Single-speed motors are less energy-efficient than a variable-speed. Blower motors have immense power and can move a large volume of air. The fan spins to circulate the cold air to different parts of the house through ducts and vents to ensure that the home temperature is the same as the temperature set on the thermostat. Issues with blower motors arise when dirty air passing through them blocks the vent holes, causing the motor to overheat. It can also experience a capacitor failure. 

Fan motors are vital components of the HVAC system and need to be in perfect condition to keep your air conditioning working efficiently. Any malfunction in the fan motor requires immediate attention to keep your home comfortable during the hot summers. An air conditioning and heating expert can efficiently perform fan motor repair and replacement to ensure low energy costs, better air quality, and increased comfort.

Stud Air Conditioning is a full-service installation, maintenance, and repair HVAC company serving  Broward, Miami-Dade, West Palm Beach, and Port St. Lucie counties. Call us when you need help with your heating or cooling needs at (954)324-2905. We can help!