A furnace blower motor is an essential part of your HVAC system. It plays the key role of circulating heated air throughout your home, ensuring comfort during the colder months. When this motor starts to fail, you can find yourself without heat – and that’s something you definitely want to avoid. By catching issues early, you can prevent further damage and save yourself time and money on repairs. Today, we’ll walk you through how to check your furnace blower motor, diagnose common problems, and give you practical tips on how to keep things running smoothly.
Signs Your Furnace Blower Motor is Failing
Before your furnace blower motor completely stops working, there are several signs to look out for. These early warnings can help you catch problems before they become more serious:
Weak Airflow
One of the first signs of a failing blower motor is weak airflow coming from your vents. If you notice that the air isn’t coming through as strongly as it used to, it could be due to dust and dirt buildup, or it might mean the motor is starting to wear out.
No Airflow
If you suddenly find that there’s no air coming out of your vents at all, this is a sign that the motor may have completely failed. It could also be an issue with the thermostat or a problem with the wiring, but either way, you’ll need to investigate.
Rising Electricity Bills
A blower motor that’s struggling to work properly can cause a spike in your electricity bills. If you notice that your utility costs are rising, it might be due to the motor working overtime because of dirt buildup or general wear and tear.
Strange Sounds
Grinding, squealing, or other unusual noises coming from your furnace are never a good sign. These sounds typically mean that the motor needs lubrication or is beginning to wear out. If left unchecked, these issues can lead to more serious damage.
Overheating
If your furnace seems to be running too hot, it could be a sign that the blower motor isn’t working as efficiently as it should. This could lead to even bigger problems, including fire hazards, so it’s something that needs to be addressed immediately.
How to Test Your Furnace Blower Motor
If you suspect that your furnace blower motor is having issues, you can do a simple test to help diagnose the problem. Here’s how you can go about it:
1. Turn Off the Power to the Furnace
Safety first! Always make sure to turn off the power to your furnace before you begin any kind of maintenance or testing. You can do this by switching off the furnace’s power switch or cutting the power at the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the Furnace Access Panels
Next, remove the access panels to expose the blower motor. This will allow you to see the motor and other components up close so you can properly inspect them.
3. Test the Motor Circuit Continuity
Grab a multimeter to check the continuity of the blower motor circuit. This tool is key for testing if the motor is functioning properly. Place the red and black probes of the multimeter on the terminals of the motor. If the circuit is complete, you’ll see minimal resistance on the meter, which indicates that the motor is working normally.
4. Check the Thermostat
The thermostat sends signals to the blower motor, so if your thermostat isn’t working properly, the motor may not get the right signals to turn on. Check the thermostat settings to ensure it’s set to the desired temperature and calibrated correctly.
5. Inspect the Motor Windings
The windings inside the motor are responsible for generating the electromagnetic field that powers the motor. Using your multimeter, check the resistance between the winding terminals. A healthy motor will show low resistance. If you see very high resistance or “infinity” readings, this could mean the windings are damaged.
6. Check the Capacitor
The capacitor helps the blower motor start and keeps it running smoothly. If it’s faulty, the motor may not work at all. Check the capacitor for signs of damage, like bulging or leaks, and test it with a multimeter to ensure it’s functioning properly.
How to Test Your Furnace Blower Motor with a Multimeter
A multimeter is a valuable tool for checking the health of your blower motor. Here’s a simple guide on how to use it:
Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms).
Disconnect the blower motor from the power supply and remove the lead wires.
Place the multimeter leads on the motor’s terminals.
If the reading is between 1 and 20 ohms, the motor is in good shape. If the reading shows “infinity” or “zero,” the motor is likely failing.
Common Causes of Furnace Blower Motor Failure
There are several reasons why a furnace blower motor might fail. Some of the most common causes include:
Age and Wear
Like any appliance, blower motors wear out over time due to constant use. Older motors are more prone to issues and may need to be replaced after years of service.
Dirt and Debris
Dirt and dust can accumulate in the motor, blocking airflow and putting extra strain on it. This can lead to overheating or even motor failure if not cleaned regularly.
Improper Maintenance
Neglecting regular maintenance like cleaning or lubrication can cause the motor to seize up. Without proper care, it’s more likely to fail prematurely.
Improper Sizing
If the blower motor is too small for your HVAC system’s needs, it can overheat or burn out because it’s working too hard. Always ensure the motor is properly sized for the system.
What to Do If Your Furnace Blower Motor Fails
Consider Replacing the Motor
If the motor is old, severely damaged, or showing signs of failure that can’t be fixed, it may be time to replace it. Replacing a blower motor can be an expensive job, but it’s essential for the overall efficiency and safety of your heating system.
Call a Professional
If you’re not comfortable performing these tests or dealing with electrical components, don’t hesitate to contact a professional HVAC technician. They have the skills and experience to properly diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your system works as it should.
Conclusion
Keeping your furnace blower motor in good condition is key to maintaining a comfortable home, especially in the winter months. By regularly checking the motor, keeping it clean, and addressing issues early, you can prevent costly breakdowns and avoid being left without heat when you need it most. If you’re ever in doubt or need assistance, Eco Pro Heating & Cooling is here to help. Our experienced technicians can inspect, diagnose, and repair your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy.
If you’re located in the Central PA area and need assistance with your furnace, Total Line is here to help! Our team of skilled technicians can provide expert installation and maintenance services tailored to your needs. Contact us today for a consultation and let us ensure your home remains comfortable year-round!
Read More
Comments