You may have heard about the gas furnace blower motor if you have a furnace. Or, you have probably had issues with it and searched for, “why is my gas furnace blowing cold air?” or “How much is it to replace a Goodman furnace blower motor? or just “gas furnace installation?”

So, what exactly is a furnace blower motor? Why does it matter? And how do you know when it’s time to replace it?  What are the symptoms of bad blower motor? What if the blower motor is the reason you are ever calling for gas furnace repair? 

 In this post, we comprehensively respond to all these questions on furnace blower motors and more. We will explore the signs of a failing blower motor, the causes of its failure, whether or not it can be repaired, and whether you should replace gas furnace or just the blower motor. 

Additionally, we will discuss furnace blower motor replacement cost and the factors that can affect the pricing. Finally, we will highlight why you should trust HVAC Santa Clarita for all your furnace blower motor replacement or repair needs.

Let’s dive right in.

What is a Furnace Blower Motor?

A furnace blower motor plays a crucial role in the operation of your gas furnace. It is responsible for circulating the warmed air throughout your home via ductwork, ensuring even distribution and maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature.

Without a functioning blower motor, your furnace will not be able to produce the desired temperature.

It draws in cool air from the return vents and pushes it over the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger then warms the air before it is blown back into the living spaces through the supply vents. This continuous air circulation ensures that your house remains cozy during the colder months.

Signs You Need a New Blower Motor

A furnace blower motor can wear out over time just like any mechanical component. There are several signs to look out for that indicate you may need a new blower motor, or may need to have repair services. 

Feel free to contact us for  heating service Santa Clarita CA  if you notice any of these problems:

Weak or no airflow

Weak air flow from your supply vents could be an indicator. The motor may not generate enough power to push the air throughout your home. You may have to contact a professional HVAC technician to repair a blower motor if it is viable to maintain the same one. 

Excessive noise

Excessive or unusual noises from your heating system, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling, can indicate a faulty blower motor. These noises may indicate worn-out bearings or other internal issues.

Frequent cycling

If your furnace frequently turns on and off without completing an entire heating cycle, it may be due to a malfunctioning blower motor. The motor may be overheating or failing to engage correctly, leading to this cycling behavior.

This is a common problem to watch out for in any HVAC system. If you notice this, whether with a heating or cooling system, immediately contact a reliable HVAC company.

Increased energy bills

A failing blower motor can cause your furnace to work more and less efficiently, resulting in higher energy bills. If you notice a sudden and unexplained increase in heating costs, it’s worth checking the blower motor.

Increased air bills could be due to several problems, among them leaky air ducts, which call for intervention from an HVAC professional.

Burning smell

A burning smell from your heating system can be a severe warning sign. It could indicate an electrical issue with the blower motor(1), such as a motor overload or a malfunctioning capacitor.

If you experience any of these signs, it’s essential to have your blower motor inspected by a professional HVAC technician. They will assess the problem and determine if a replacement is necessary.

What Causes Furnace Blower Motor Failure?

Understanding the causes of furnace blower motor failure can help you take preventive measures and prolong the lifespan of your motor and other gas furnace parts. Several factors contribute to blower motor failure. Let’s take a closer look at them:

Lack of maintenance

Having your furnaces checked regularly is crucial for optimal functioning. Regularly cleaning or replacing your HVAC air filters can lead to dust and debris accumulation on the blower motor, making it to overheat and eventually fail.

If your heating system shuts suddenly, it could be due to prolonged periods without HVAC maintenance. Call HVAC Santa Clarita to help you fix such problems.

Age

Like any mechanical device, blower motors have a limited lifespan. On average, blower motors can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years(1), depending on HVAC maintenance and usage. As the motor ages, its efficiency decreases, and it becomes more prone to failure.

Electrical issues

Electrical problems like as power surges or voltage fluctuations, can damage the blower motor and its components. These issues can occur due to faulty wiring, lightning strikes, or power grid problems.

This is one reason you should avoid DIY furnace installation, repairs and replacements unless you understand what you are doing.

Excessive dirt and debris

The blower motor is in the air handler unit, which can be exposed to dirt, dust, and other contaminants. Over time, these particles can accumulate on the motor, obstructing its airflow and causing it to overheat.

Improper sizing or installation

If the blower motor is not the correct size for your furnace or is installed improperly, it can strain the motor excessively, leading to premature failure.

By addressing these potential causes, you can reduce the risk of blower motor failure and ensure the longevity of your furnace.

Can a Faulty Blower Motor Be Repaired?

When faced with a defective blower motor, the question often arises: can it be repaired, or is a replacement necessary? In many cases, a blower motor can be fixed, but depending on the extent of the damage and the availability of replacement parts. However, it’s essential to consider whether a repair is a cost-effective solution in the long run.

A repair may be a viable option if your blower motor is relatively new and the issue is minor, such as a faulty capacitor or worn bearings. However, if the motor is old, has significant damage, or requires expensive replacement parts, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new motor.

A qualified HVAC technician from HVAC Santa Clarita can assess your blower motor’s condition and provide a recommendation based on their expertise. We also offer maintenance, repair and replacement services for gas furnace inducer motor, heat exchanger, control board and other gas furnace parts. Give us a call today for all your heating needs. 

How Much Is A Furnace Blower Motor Replacement?

AC blower motor replacement cost varies largely depending on several factors. On average, the cost can go from $500 to $1,500, including parts and labor costs. Factors that can affect the cost include:

Motor type

Different blower motors are available, ranging from single-speed motors to variable-speed models. Variable-speed blower motors are more expensive due to their advanced features and energy-saving capabilities.

Motor size

The size of your blower motor must match your furnace’s specifications. Larger motors may cost more than smaller ones.

Labor costs

Labor costs for blower motor replacement can vary largely depending on your location and the complexity of the installation. It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from reputable HVAC companies to ensure you are getting a fair price.

Additional components

In some cases, replacing the blower motor may require replacing other components, such as the motor capacitor or fan belt. These additional accessories can add to the overall replacement cost.

Before committing to a blower motor replacement, it’s worth considering the potential energy savings and improved efficiency a new motor can provide. Investing in a high-quality, energy-efficient motor can offset the upfront cost through long-term energy savings.

Factors Affecting Blower Motor Replacement

Several factors can influence the decision to change your blower motor. These include:

Furnace age

If your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan, it is wiser and more cost-effective to replace both the furnace and the blower motor simultaneously. This ensures compatibility between the components and reduces the risk of future breakdowns.

Also, you may want to consider getting a heat pump installation instead of a new furnace, depending on whether or not you have an air conditioner or not. 

If this is something you are considering, feel free to reach out for heat pump service Santa Clarita CA. 

Energy efficiency

Upgrading to more energy-efficient furnace blower motors can result in long-term cost savings on your energy bills. Newer motors often have advanced features such as variable-speed operation, which can adjust the airflow based on the heating demands, resulting in improved comfort and efficiency.

Warranty coverage

If your furnace is still under warranty, replacing a damaged blower motor may be covered. Verify the terms and conditions of your warranty to determine if you are eligible for a replacement.

Overall furnace condition

It’s essential to consider the overall state of your furnace when deciding whether to replace the blower motor. If your furnace has other significant issues or is approaching the end of its lifespan, a replacement may be the most cost-effective solution.

Ultimately, the decision to replace your blower motor should be made in consultation with a professional HVAC technician. They will assess your situation and provide tailored recommendations based on their expertise.

Why You Should Trust HVAC Santa Clarita to Replace Your Furnace Blower Motor

You want to trust the experts regarding something as crucial as your home’s heating system. HVAC Santa Clarita has a proven track record of excellence in furnace blower motor replacement.

Our team of skilled HVAC professionals is dedicated to ensuring your home remains warm and comfortable throughout the winter months. With competitive pricing and unmatched expertise, we are your go-to choice for blower motor replacements.

Besides, we have your back whether you are looking for a Carrier blower motor, Trane blower motor, Goodman, Mitsubishi, Lennox, LG, and other popular HVAC brands.

FAQs

Can you replace a blower motor yourself?

While it’s technically possible to replace a furnace blower motor yourself, it’s a complex task that requires knowledge of HVAC systems. Hiring a professional technician is highly recommended to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. Look for “a c services near me” and get someone trusted.

How long does it take to replace a faulty blower motor?

The time it takes to replace a damaged blower motor can vary based on factors such as the type of furnace and the extent of the work required. On average, it can take up to three hours to complete the replacement.

What are some maintenance tips to prolong the life of blower motors?

To extend the life of your blower motors, regularly change your furnace filters, keep the motors and surrounding area clean, and schedule annual maintenance with a licensed HVAC technician.

Final Thoughts

A well-functioning gas furnace blower motor is crucial for maintaining a comfortable home during the colder months. Don’t let a failing blower motor leave you out in the cold. Take action immediately and call for HVAC repair if you notice something wrong with your gas furnace blower motor and central heating in general. 

 Contact HVAC Santa Clarita today, and let us take care of your heating system.

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HVAC Santa Clarita
26893 Bouquet Canyon Rd
Santa Clarita CA 91350

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References

https://www.forbes.com/home-improvement/hvac/how-much-does-a-gas-furnace-cost/