Signs You Need a New HVAC Blower Motor

Imagine it’s a scorching summer day and your air conditioner is producing inadequate airflow, or it’s freezing outside, and your heater won’t turn on. Frustrating, right? A common cause of these issues is a failing HVAC blower motor, which powers the fan that circulates air throughout your home. HVAC.com details the signs your blower motor needs replacing and the cost of a new one.

What’s the Role of an HVAC Blower Motor?

Located inside your furnace or air handler, the HVAC blower motor drives the fan that pushes air from your HVAC system, through the ducts, and into your home’s living areas. Essentially, it ensures that warm or cool air is distributed evenly throughout your home to keep it comfortable year-round.

HVAC blower motors typically last about 15-20 years – about the lifespan of your system – but can break down prematurely due to a lack of maintenance, excessive wear and tear from dirt buildup, electrical issues, or overuse.

Signs Your HVAC Blower Motor Needs to Be Replaced

1. No Airflow

If your HVAC system’s blower motor fails completely, you won’t feel any air coming through the vents. This means you’ll have no heating or cooling in your home, even when the system is running. A blower motor can fail completely because of electrical malfunctions, mechanical damage, or excessive wear that stops it from working properly.

2. Reduced Airflow

If you’re still getting some air but the airflow is weak, the blower motor may not be working at full capacity. This can be caused by a bad capacitor, an accumulation of dust and dirt, or simply old age. You might notice reduced heating or cooling efficiency and less air coming through the vents than usual.

3. Unusual Noises

If your blower motor starts making strange noises like grinding, squealing, or rattling, it’s a red flag. These sounds often indicate worn-out bearings, a damaged fan, or other internal problems that might require a new motor. Contact an HVAC dealer to help determine whether the blower motor should be repaired or replaced.

4. Overheating Motor

Are you noticing a burnt smell when your HVAC system is on? Overheating might mean there are serious issues that could require replacing the blower motor. Overheating can be caused by clogged air filters, a dirty blower fan, electrical problems, or just wear and tear from aging. All of these can put extra strain on the motor and lead to overheating.

5. Excessive Vibration

Excessive vibration from your HVAC system could mean the blower motor is unbalanced or its mounts are worn. Ignoring this issue could lead to further damage, so it’s important to contact an HVAC contractor if you notice a vibration.

6. High Energy Bills

A failing blower motor can make your HVAC system work harder, which can cause energy bills to spike. If you notice a sudden increase with your energy bills without any corresponding heat wave or cold spell, it’s a good idea to have your blower motor checked and possibly replaced.

The Cost of Replacing a Blower Motor

The cost of replacing a blower motor can vary based on factors like the motor type, size, labor, and where you live. On average, expect to spend between $300 and $800 for parts and labor. More complex or high-efficiency systems might cost more. Replacing your HVAC blower motor might seem like a big expense, but catching a failing motor early can save you from more expensive repairs and headaches later on.