When the chill of winter descends upon Santa Clarita, your gas furnace becomes an instrumental part of maintaining a warm and cozy home.

To ensure maximum comfort, all parts of the heating system, including the gas furnace inducer motor, blower motor, heat exchanger, etc., must function well. This is why the heating season is often crowned with people looking for “gas furnace repair in my area” just to ensure everything is right with their systems.

At HVAC Santa Clarita, we understand the importance of every component in your heating system, and today, we’re shining a spotlight on a vital player in your furnace’s performance – the inducer motor. We also look at heating troubleshooting tips and heating repair Santa Clarita.

Keep reading on.

What Does An Inducer Motor Do?

The inducer motor quietly performs an essential task that keeps your gas furnace running smoothly. This small but mighty component is responsible for expelling harmful combustion gases from your home, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Simply put, inducing airflow helps maintain proper combustion, prevents the accumulation of harmful gases, and promotes the overall functionality of the heating equipment.

Signs of a Bad Furnace Inducer Motor

Like any part of your HVAC system, the furnace draft inducer can encounter issues over time. Recognizing these problems early is vital to avoiding more significant headaches. Here are some common signs of inducer motor trouble:

1. Unusual Noises: If you hear loud or unusual noises from your furnace, it could indicate a failing draft inducer motor. High-pitched squeals or rattling sounds should be investigated promptly.
2. Frequent Shutdowns: An inducer motor malfunction can lead to your furnace repeatedly shutting down. If your heating system struggles to stay operational, it’s time for a check-up.
3. Inconsistent Heating: A faulty inducer motor can affect your furnace’s ability to maintain consistent temperatures in your home. If you notice uneven heating, it might be due to this component.
4. Increased Energy Bills: An inefficient inducer motor can make your gas furnace to work harder and consume more energy. Keep an eye on your energy bills for any unexpected spikes.
5. Visible Damage or Wear: Inspect the inducer motor for signs of damage or wear, such as rust, corrosion, or loose parts. These physical indications can be strong indicators of motor trouble.
6. Ignition Problems: If your furnace has trouble igniting or staying lit, the inducer motor’s performance may be compromised. This can lead to ignition failures and reduced heating efficiency.
7. Weak Draft: The inducer motor creates a draft that assists combustion. If you notice a weak or insufficient draft, it may be due to a failing motor.
8. Error Codes on the Furnace Control Board: Some modern furnaces have diagnostic features that display error codes. If your furnace control board indicates a problem related to the inducer motor, it clearly shows that it needs attention.

Troubleshooting Inducer Motor Issues

While some minor gas furnace issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, it’s crucial to remember that the inducer motor is complex. Attempting DIY repairs (1) without proper knowledge can lead to further damage. Here are some safe steps you can take:

1. Check for Obstructions: Ensure no obstructions or debris are blocking the inducer motor’s airflow.
2. Inspect Wiring: Examine the wiring connections for any loose or damaged wires. If you find any, consult a professional for repairs.
3. Clean the Fan: Gently clean the fan blades if they appear dirty or clogged.

Why Furnace Inducer Motors Fail

When your inducer motor fails, you do not want to go straight to doing a gas furnace replacement or repair without understanding the cause of the problem.

Whether you are troubleshooting or calling a professional to repair or replace it, it is great to always get to the root of the problem to avoid repeat cases.

Here are possible reasons for gas furnace inducer motor failure:

Furnace inducer motors are critical components in your heating system, but they can fail for several reasons:

1. Age and Wear: Inducer motors have a lifespan of around 15-20 years, but continuous use can lead to wear and eventual failure.
2. Dirt and Debris: Accumulated dust and debris on the fan blades and housing can make the motor work harder, causing overheating and premature failure.
3. Moisture and Corrosion: Moisture can enter the motor housing, leading to corrosion and internal damage. Proper sealing and maintenance are essential.
4. Electrical Problems: Loose or damaged electrical connections disrupt the motor’s operation and can lead to failure.
5. Blocked Venting: If the venting system becomes blocked, the motor may struggle to exhaust combustion gases, potentially causing overheating and failure.
6. Excessive Heating: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can lead to motor failure. Ensure proper furnace operation and maintenance to prevent this.
7. Manufacturing Defects: Rare but possible manufacturing defects or poor-quality components can contribute to motor failure.
8. Overuse or Incorrect Sizing: Undersized furnaces right or constant use right from installation stage due to extreme cold can lead to quicker wear and tear on the motor.

Trust the Professionals at HVAC Santa Clarita

When it comes to gas furnace inducer motor problems, safety is paramount. That’s where we come in. At HVAC Santa Clarita, our certified technicians have the knowledge and technical expertise to diagnose and repair any inducer motor issues. We also offer other HVAC services such as AC installation and AC repair Santa Clarita.

Trust us because of our:

• Swift Response: We understand the urgency of heating problems and are here to provide quick solutions. We serve our clients 24/7, so do not wait for business hours to give us a call.
• Precision Repairs: Our technicians are trained to handle inducer motor, and other parts repairs with precision and care, ensuring your furnace functions optimally.
• Replacement Services: In cases where repairs are not feasible, we offer inducer motor replacement services using high-quality, dependable gas furnace parts and brands.

Don’t let a malfunctioning inducer motor compromise your comfort and safety this winter. Trust the experts at HVAC Santa Clarita to keep your gas furnace in peak condition. Contact us today for a warm and worry-free home all season long. Your comfort is our priority.

Feel free to call us about heat pump installation in Santa Clarita CA. Heat pumps are also a viable and affordable replacement for damaged gas furnaces.

FAQs

Can You Oil a Furnace Inducer Motor?

No, you should not oil a furnace inducer motor. Most modern furnace inducer motors are sealed and lubricated for life, and they do not require additional oiling or maintenance. Attempting to oil such motors can lead to damage and reduce their efficiency. If you suspect a problem with your inducer motor, it’s best to consult a HVAC technician for proper diagnosis and repair or HVAC replacement if necessary.

What Do I Do When My Furnace Inducer Motor Does Not Start?

If the furnace inducer motor doesn’t start, check the power supply thermostat settings and look for error codes on the control panel. If issues persist, consult a professional technician for diagnosis and repair.

What happens if the inducer motor stops working?

When the inducer motor fails, the furnace can’t correctly vent combustion gases, leading to safety risks, heating system shutdowns, and potential damage. Professional repair or replacement is necessary.

How Long Should An Inducer Motor Run?

The inducer motor in a furnace runs during the entire heating cycle. It starts before ignition and continues until the furnace’s heating cycle ends, ensuring proper ventilation and combustion. The exact cycle duration can vary depending on the furnace’s design and the specific heating demands of your home, but it typically runs for the duration of the heating process.

How much does it cost to replace a furnace inducer?

The cost to replace a furnace inducer motor varies, typically ranging from $300 to $800(1) or more, factoring in brand, labor, warranty, and any additional repairs required.

Can you run a furnace without an inducer motor?

Running a furnace without an inducer motor is not safe or practical. In fact, it is just as important as a gas furnace heat exchanger. 

The inducer motor is essential for venting combustion gases, ensuring proper furnace operation, and preventing carbon monoxide buildup in your home. Operating a furnace without it is dangerous(2) and should never be attempted. If your inducer motor is not functioning correctly, a qualified HVAC technician should repair or replace it to maintain safety and heating system functionality.

The Takeaway – Inducer Motor For Furnace

In conclusion, a furnace inducer motor is a vital part that ensures your heating system’s safe and efficient operation. Recognizing signs of failure, such as unusual noises or frequent shutdowns, is crucial. This is why it’s important to consult a qualified HVAC personnel to diagnose and address any gas furnace problem, ensuring your home remains comfortable, safe, and warm during the colder months. Remember, regular heating maintenance can help prevent such issues and prolong the life of your furnace.

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26893 Bouquet Canyon Rd
Santa Clarita CA 91350

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References

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Draft+Inducer+Motor+Replacement/123157

https://www.ehow.com/info_12197374_happens-furnace-inducer-goes-out.html