6 Signs of a Bad AC Blower Motor

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. HB Home Service Team is an HVAC and plumbing contractor for residential homes in Central PA. We provide professional AC installation, repair and maintenance services. 

Understanding Your Motor Type

The first thing to know is that there are different kinds of blower motors. The type that you have may affect your unit’s efficiency rating and how it performs. The type of blower motor in your system can influence its efficiency and performance:

• Single-speed motors: Single-speed motors are commonly found in standard air conditioning systems and operate at one speed — either fully on or off.
• Two-speed motors: These motors offer both high and low settings, allowing for more flexibility in airflow.
• Variable-speed motors: These advanced motors provide a full range of speed options, allowing for precise airflow management and maintaining a consistent home temperature. High-efficiency systems typically utilize either two-speed or variable-speed fans.

Signs of a Failing Blower Motor

Now, let’s look at the signs that you may have a bad motor.

1. Weak Airflow From Your Vents

One of the first signs you may notice is what feels like less air coming from your vents. A clogged air filter can cause this, so check that as a first step. If you have a two- or variable-speed motor, it could just be running on a lower setting, so check your thermostat. If a lower fan setting doesn’t account for the issue, consider scheduling a service call.

2. No Airflow

There are several mechanical problems that may cause no airflow, including a bad thermostat, a bad relay and a bad capacitor. If it’s your fan motor, you may have experienced other symptoms before it completely failed. Because of the complexity of the system and the components involved, it’s best to schedule a service call with a professional.

3. Unusual and Loud Sounds

What does a bad blower motor sound like? A faulty blower motor produces odd noises. Worn-out bearings create screeching or squealing sounds. If any internal components are damaged or loose, you may hear rattling or banging noises.

4. Climbing Utility Bills

There are a number of reasons you may see your utility bills climbing, including increasing energy costs. However, when you see your electricity consumption suddenly climbing, there may be an electrical drain on the system. A failing blower motor may experience additional electrical resistance, which will cause it to consume more energy to make it run.

5. Overheating

When your blower motor is struggling, it may start overheating, which is a hazard for many reasons. You may experience a hot or burning smell coming from your vents. If you do, shut down your system immediately to prevent a possible fire, and then schedule a service call to check for what component is causing it. The smell should dissipate once you shut down the system if it’s related to your air conditioner.

6. Tripping Circuit Breaker

Your air conditioner may cause the circuit breaker to trip repeatedly if it’s drawing too much power. A bad blower motor could cause this, but it could also be an issue with the condensing unit fan or the compressor. Do not ignore the problem and continue closing the circuit, but call to have a technician troubleshoot the problem.

Can a Bad Blower Motor Cause No AC?

Yes, a blown AC motor can stop your air conditioning system from cooling your home. Additionally, prolonged use of a malfunctioning blower motor may lead to further damage to other components in your AC system, resulting in more extensive and expensive repairs.

What Happens When Your Blower Motor Goes Out?

When the blower motor fails, it cannot circulate air through the system, resulting in no airflow from the vents. Even if the compressor is running, the cool air generated will not reach your living spaces. If you experience a complete lack of cooling, it’s essential to check the blower motor along with other potential issues like the thermostat or electrical components.

Importance of Regular Maintenance

Regular AC maintenance extends the life of your blower motor and improves the overall efficiency of your HVAC system. A well-maintained blower motor can lead to:

• Improved air quality: Dust and debris can accumulate in your blower motor and air ducts. Regular cleaning and maintenance help remove these contaminants, improving indoor air quality.
• Energy savings: An efficient blower motor uses less energy, which can result in lower utility bills. This is particularly significant during the peak cooling months when air conditioning systems work the hardest.
• Increased comfort: A properly functioning blower motor ensures consistent airflow, helping to maintain even temperatures throughout your home.

During a maintenance visit, your technician will clean your blower fan cage, balance it and test the motor. They’ll also lubricate the bearings if it’s not a sealed motor to keep them moving freely. This can get ahead of possible problems over the summer, helping you determine if you need a new motor before you’re left without a functional air conditioner.

Signs of Wear and Tear

In addition to the six signs mentioned earlier, it’s also important to watch for other indicators of wear and tear on your blower motor. These can include:

• Increased vibration: Excessive vibration can indicate that the blower motor is unbalanced or that there are loose components, leading to further damage if not addressed promptly.
• Frequent breakdowns: If you find yourself frequently needing repairs on your blower motor, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs to be investigated.
• Age of the system: An older HVAC system may be more prone to blower motor failures. Consider a replacement if the motor is nearing the end of its expected life span.

Why You Should Call HB Home Service Team

When it comes to maintaining your air conditioning system, the HB Home Service Team is your go-to expert in Harrisburg. Here’s why you should choose us for all your AC blower motor needs:

• Expert technicians: Our highly trained technicians possess extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and repairing AC blower motor issues. We ensure you receive reliable and effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.
• Comprehensive services: We don’t just address the symptoms — we evaluate your entire HVAC system to identify underlying problems. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs near the Harrisburg area, we’re equipped to handle it all.
• Customer-centric approach: At HB Home Service Team, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. We listen to your concerns and provide transparent communication throughout the service process, so you always know what to expect.
• Timely response: We understand that AC issues can arise unexpectedly, especially during hot weather. Our team is dedicated to providing prompt service, ensuring your home stays cool and comfortable when you need it most.
• Long-term solutions: We focus on delivering long-lasting solutions, not just quick fixes. Our expert AC maintenance plans prolong the life of your AC unit by checking the lubrication of moving parts, verifying the refrigerant level, performing leak detection and more. 
• Trusted reputation: Since 1974, residents in Harrisburg have relied on us for their heating and cooling needs. Our commitment to quality service earned us a loyal customer base and a reputation for excellence.

Prolong the Life of Your AC’s Fan Motor  

The HB Home Service Team takes pride in providing heating and AC maintenance, repair, and installation, along with indoor air quality solutions and a full range of residential electrical and plumbing services. 

Call to schedule your AC maintenance or repair appointment with one of our experienced technicians today.