How to find the Best AC Fan Motor

If your Air Conditioning unit is on the fritz, don’t worry; you can do a few things to get it running again. In the HVAC industry, various fan motors are being replaced daily. In my experience as a mechanical design engineer, they are probably the most common repair on an air conditioning system.

Unfortunately, it does mean that your AC will be out of action until it is replaced. However, the fact that they are a common repair also means that there are many options for replacements!

Here I’ll show you how to do some basic checks to see if it is actually your fan motor that is bad and find the best AC fan motor replacement for your unit. Try to stay cool!

Bottom line: If your AC fan motor is starting to fail, it’s essential to replace it as soon as possible. You can look at a few different places, but our top two recommendations are Grainger and Ferguson. Both of these companies offer a wide selection of AC fan motors, so you’re sure to find one that fits your system. And because they’re both well-established companies, you can be confident that you’re getting a quality product.

Common Air Conditioning Motors

Air conditioners use a variety of different motors to power their many functions. The most common air conditioning motors are condenser fan motors, blower motors, ECM motors, combustion fan motors, and compressor motors.

Each of these motors serves a specific purpose within the air conditioning unit, requiring different power and maintenance levels. Below we’ll take a closer look at each type of motor and what it does.

Condenser Fan Motor

An AC condenser fan motor is vital to any air conditioning system. It helps to circulate cool air throughout the home or office by spinning the blades of the condenser unit. Without this motor, the air conditioner would not be able to function properly.

The AC condenser fan motor is located outside the home, usually on the roof or in the backyard. It is responsible for circulating air over the coils of the condenser unit, which helps to cool down the refrigerant inside. This refrigerant is then circulated through the evaporator coils inside the home, where it helps to cool down the air.

Without a properly functioning AC condenser fan motor, the air conditioner will not be able to cool down the home or office properly.

Blower Motor

A blower motor is a component of an HVAC system that helps move air through the home’s ductwork. The blower motor is responsible for circulating air throughout the home and can be controlled by a switch or thermostat. The motor is located in the air handler, typically in the attic, garage, or basement of the home.

The blower motor plays an important role in the overall efficiency of the HVAC system. A properly sized and functioning blower motor will help circulate air evenly throughout the home, providing consistent comfort. In addition, a properly operating blower motor can also help extend the HVAC system’s life by preventing overworking of other components.

ECM Motor

An AC ECM motor is an electronically controlled motor used in HVAC systems. It is a brushless DC electric motor that uses Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to control the speed of the motor. The AC ECM motor is more efficient than a standard AC induction motor and can save up to 30% on energy costs.

The AC ECM motor is also known as a variable speed blower motor or a modulating blower motor. It is connected to the HVAC system’s blower unit and regulates the system’s airflow. The AC ECM motor can operate at different speeds, depending on the demand for airflow. When the need for airflow is high, the AC ECM motor will increase its speed to provide the necessary airflow. When the demand for airflow is low, the AC ECM motor will decrease its speed, saving energy.

Combustion Fan Motors

A combustion fan motor is a motor that helps circulate air in an HVAC system. The motor is responsible for moving air through the system and into the various rooms of a home or building. The motor is typically located near the furnace or other heat source.

The primary purpose of the combustion fan motor is to circulate warm air throughout the HVAC system. This circulation helps distribute heat evenly and keeps the temperature in the home or building comfortable. In addition to circulating warm air, the combustion fan motor helps remove stale air and circulate fresh air into the HVAC system.

The combustion fan motor is an essential part of an HVAC system and is vital in keeping the system running smoothly. Without the motor, the HVAC system would not be able to circulate air properly and would not be able to maintain a comfortable temperature in the home or building.

Compressor Motors

A Compressor Motor is the central component in a hermetically sealed compressor. It drives the refrigerant pump and its associated mechanical components. The compressor motor is a vital part of any HVAC system, and its proper operation is essential to the efficiency and performance of the entire system.

The compressor motor compresses refrigerant gas and circulates it through the evaporator coils. This cools the air passing over the coils, and the cooled air is circulated throughout the home or building. In order to maintain optimal efficiency, the compressor motor must be properly sized for the specific application.

There are two main types of compressor motors: single-stage and two-stage. Single-stage compressors are typically used in smaller applications, such as residential air conditioning units. Two-stage compressors are more powerful and are usually used in larger commercial and industrial applications.

The size of the compressor motor will determine the amount of refrigerant that can be circulated through the system. The larger the motor, the more refrigerant it can circulate.

How to Check if Your AC Fan Motor is Bad

It’s summertime, and living is easy – until your air conditioner starts acting up. Then, suddenly, it feels like the temperature inside your home is rising by the minute. You begin to sweat and feel uncomfortable, so you head to your thermostat to see what’s happening.

You can also check if your AC fan motor is bad by looking for certain signs and symptoms. For instance, if the fan motor is making strange noises or is not working as efficiently as it used to, it is likely that the motor is going bad.

Additionally, you can also check the current draw of the fan motor. If the current draw is higher than average, this is another sign that the motor is going bad. Finally, you can also check the temperature of the AC unit itself. If the unit is warmer than usual, then this could be a sign that the fan motor is not working correctly.

Here are some further steps to ensure that you are testing your AC fan motor properly and to confirm that it is not working:

Ensure the Thermostat is On

If you want to ensure your thermostat is not on when inspecting your AC fan motor, you can do a few things. First, check the breaker box and make sure the power is off to the unit. Next, remove the access panel to the thermostat and disconnect the wires from the terminals. Finally, use a multimeter to test for continuity between the two terminals. If there is no continuity, then the thermostat is not on.

Check for Tripped Breakers

Many homeowners don’t know how to check for a tripped breaker when inspecting their AC fan motor. This can be a problem because a tripped breaker can cause your AC unit to shut down, leaving you without air conditioning. Luckily, checking for a tripped breaker is easy and only takes a few minutes.

The breaker is located in the breaker box, usually near the AC unit. To check the breaker, simply turn it off and back on again. If the breaker trips again, there is a problem with the AC unit that needs to be repaired or replaced.

Replace Air Filters

When you inspect your AC fan motor, it is important to check the air filters and replace them if necessary. Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause the motor to overheat, leading to serious damage.

You should check your air filters every month or two and replace them as needed. It is also a good idea to keep a spare set of air filters on hand so that you can replace them immediately if they become dirty.

To replace the air filters, remove the old air filters and insert the new ones. Be sure to insert them in the correct direction to work properly. Finally, turn on the AC unit and test the motor to ensure it is working properly.

Examine Outside Fan

One of the things you’ll also want to do is take a look at the outside fan. This component helps to keep the motor cool, and if it’s not working properly, it can cause the motor to overheat. Here’s what you need to know about examining the outside fan:

First, take a look at the blades. If they’re bent or damaged in any way, that can cause the fan to operate less effectively. Ensure all the blades are in good condition and pointing in the same direction.

If the outside fan isn’t turning, that’s another issue you’ll need to address. Sometimes the problem is as simple as a blown fuse; other times, it may be necessary to replace the motor.

Clear Fan Blades of Obstructions

The fan motor is responsible for circulating air throughout the AC unit, and if it becomes obstructed, it can cause several problems. An obstruction can cause the fan motor to overheat, leading to a loss of power and eventually damaging the motor. Additionally, an obstruction can cause the fan blades to bend or break, leading to damage.

To prevent these problems, it’s important to regularly inspect the fan motor and clear any obstructions that may be present. You can do this by removing the cover from the AC unit and using a flashlight to inspect the fan blades. If you see any debris or obstructions, be sure to remove them carefully so as not to damage the fan blades.

Try Kickstarting Fan Blades

If your air conditioner’s fan blades aren’t moving, it could be because the fan motor has seized up. To try and kickstart the fan motor, first, ensure that there is power running to the unit. Next, locate the fan motor and give the blades a spin by hand. If they don’t budge, you may need a screwdriver or another HVAC tool to pry them open.

Once they’re moving, the fan motor should start up and begin moving the blades on its own. If it doesn’t, you may need to replace the fan motor altogether.

How to Test Your AC Fan Motor

Your AC’s fan motor is responsible for circulating air through your home, and it is one of the most important parts of your AC unit. If your fan motor isn’t working properly, your AC unit won’t be able to cool your home effectively. That’s why it’s important to test your fan motor regularly to ensure it is working properly.

Here’s how to test your AC fan motor:

Check the Power

Unfortunately, fan motors can eventually break down or malfunction like any other mechanical device. If you think your AC fan motor is not working properly, you can perform a few tests to check the power going to the motor.

First, locate the fan motor on your AC unit. The location will vary depending on the make and model of your air conditioner, but the motor is typically located near the top of the unit.

Once you’ve found the motor, use a multimeter to test the voltage going to the motor. The voltage should be between 208 and 230 volts. If it’s lower than this, it could indicate a problem with your AC unit’s electrical system.

Next, use the multimeter to test the current going to the fan motor. The current should be between 4 and 6 amps. If it’s outside of this range, it could indicate that the fan motor is drawing too much or too little power, which can lead to problems down the line.

If you don’t have a multimeter, you can also test the power going to the fan motor by feeling the AC unit’s power cord. The cord should be warm to the touch but not hot. If it’s hot, it could indicate a problem with the motor.

Check the Windings

Whether you’re troubleshooting a noisy fan motor or just want to ensure your AC unit is running efficiently, it’s essential to know how to check the windings in your AC fan motor. While this may sound like a daunting task, it’s actually quite simple and only takes a few minutes.

To check the windings in your AC fan motor, you will need:

• A multimeter
• An AC power source

First, disconnect your AC unit from its power source. Then, use your multimeter to test the continuity of the winding coils. To do this, touch one lead of the multimeter to each end of each coil. If the meter reading shows continuity, the coil is not damaged, and you can move on to the next one.

If you find any damaged coils, you will need to replace them. Once all the coils have been tested and replaced (if necessary), reassemble the AC unit and reconnect it to its power source.

Inspect the AC Capacitor

The capacitor is responsible for providing the electric charge that helps start and run the motor. If the capacitor is damaged or not working properly, it can cause the motor to overheat and fail.

To inspect the AC capacitor, first, check the outside of the capacitor for any signs of damage. If the capacitor is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Next, check the voltage rating on the capacitor. The voltage rating should be equal to or greater than the voltage of your AC system.

If the voltage rating is too low, it can cause the motor to overheat and fail. Finally, check the capacitance on the capacitor. The capacitance is measured in microfarads (μF). The higher the capacitance, the more electric charge the capacitor can store.

If the capacitance is too low, it can cause the motor to overheat and fail.

Finding the Right Replacement Motor

A broken fan motor is one of the most common issues that AC owners face.

When your AC’s fan motor breaks, it can be a frustrating experience. Not only does it mean that your AC will no longer work properly, but it can also be expensive to replace. Thankfully, you can do a few things to ensure you get the right replacement motor for your AC unit.

You’ll first need to identify the make, model, and specifications of your existing fan motor. Once you have this information, you can start shopping around for replacement motors. You can look at a few different places, including online retailers and appliance stores.

Grainger

Grainger is a trusted name for finding high-quality AC fan motors. With over 1 million products available, Grainger has the selection and variety customers need to find the perfect motor for their application.

In addition to a wide range of AC fan motors, Grainger offers expert customer service, fast shipping, and competitive prices. Whether you’re looking for a single-phase or three-phase AC motor, Grainger will have some options for you.

Pros

• Grainger is a reliable source for AC fans and motors.
• They offer a wide selection of both new and used products, so you’re sure to find what you need.
• Their prices are also competitive.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that Grainger’s customer service is not always responsive.
• Because Grainger is an online-only retailer, you’ll need to factor in shipping time when ordering from them.

Overall, though, Grainger is a good option for finding AC fan motors, and I have had no problems with them in the past.

Ferguson

When it comes to choosing a replacement AC fan motor, Ferguson is a great option. The company has been in business for over 50 years and is a trusted name in the HVAC industry. Ferguson offers a wide selection of models, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. In addition, the company provides various warranties, so you can be sure you’re getting a product that will last.

If you’re not sure exactly what type of motor you need, their knowledgeable staff will be more than happy to help you find the right one. And if you need it in a hurry, they can usually get it to you quickly.

Pros

• Ferguson has a wide selection of replacement AC fan motors available, so you’re sure to find one that’s compatible with your unit.
• The prices of Ferguson’s replacement AC fan motors are very competitive, and they often offer discounts and promotions on their products.
• Ferguson also offers a warranty on their replacement AC fan motors, so you can be confident in your purchase.

Cons

• Ferguson’s customer service may not be as responsive as you’d like when you have questions or concerns about your purchase.
• You may also need to wait for your replacement AC fan motor to be shipped from Ferguson, which could take a few days.

Amazon

Amazon is a great source to check out if you need a replacement AC fan motor. You can find various AC fan motors on Amazon from brands like GE, Emerson, and more. With Amazon’s Prime shipping, you can get your new AC fan motor shipped free in just two days.

When shopping for a replacement AC fan motor on Amazon, read the product descriptions carefully. This way, you can be sure to select the right motor for your needs. And if you have any questions about a particular AC fan motor, don’t hesitate to contact the seller directly.

Pros

• Replacement AC fan motors from Amazon are usually cheaper than those from local contractors.
• You can also read reviews from other customers to see if the quality is good.

Cons

• You may not be able to find the exact model you need
• Shipping may take a while.

Amazon is a great reference to have for replacement AC fan motors. While they may not have the most extensive inventory, they do stock a wide range of motors, and in my experience, Amazon has come in very handy when looking for a fan motor!

Home Depot

Home Depot is one of the largest home improvement stores in the United States. They sell a wide variety of products, including replacement AC fan motors. You can find various brands and models of replacement AC fan motors at Home Depot.

If you’re unsure which replacement AC fan motor is right for you, you can always ask a Home Depot associate for help. They should be able to point you in the right direction and help you find the perfect replacement AC fan motor for your home.

Pros

• Home Depot offers a wide selection of AC fan motors to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.
• Prices are also very competitive, and you can often find sales or discounts that can save you even more money.
• Home Depot provides helpful installation instructions and videos on their website.

Cons

• As Home Depot is a large chain store, there’s always the possibility that they may not have the exact model of AC fan motor you need in stock.
• If you do need to return or exchange your motor, you’ll likely have to pay for shipping charges – which can add up quickly.
• Some customers have complained about the quality of Home Depot’s AC fan motors, so be sure to do your research before making your purchase.

While I have never personally ordered a fan motor from Home Depot, I know HVAC contractors that have, and they said that they didn’t find any decrease in quality in their products.

HVACPartsShop

HVACPartsShop carries various replacement AC fan motors from top brands like Carrier, Lennox, Rheem, and Trane. Whether you need a single-speed or variable-speed motor, they have the perfect one for your needs. Plus, their prices are very competitive.

Their knowledgeable staff is always available to help you find the right replacement motor for your AC unit. And, they offer free shipping on all orders over $100!

Pros

• When you purchase a replacement AC fan motor from HVACPartsShop, you can rest assured knowing that your purchase is backed by a warranty.
• The customer service team at HVACPartsShop is second to none. They are always available to answer any questions you may have about your purchase, and they will do whatever it takes to make sure you are satisfied with your new motor.
• HVACPartsShop offers some of the most competitive prices on replacement motors, so you can be sure you are getting a good deal.

Cons

• Depending on where you live, your new motor may take a few days to arrive. HVACPartsShop ships all orders via UPS, so you can track your package and know exactly when it will arrive.

FAQ’s

Final Thoughts

Air conditioning fan motors are important parts of the system and can fail for several reasons. There are a few different types of AC fan motors- common ones being the condenser fan motor, blower motor, ECM motor, and combustion fan motor. There are also multiple ways to troubleshoot your air conditioner fan motor before you replace it.

We hope this article has helped you become more familiar with common AC fan motors and that you can find replacement motors at various online retailers.

Have any questions? Leave them in the comments below!

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Ryan Clancy

Ryan joined the HVAC career when he took a position as a mechanical design engineer in NYC. He loved helping customers find the right system for their homes, along with being able to see some of the most beautiful penthouses and apartments in Manhattan.

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