Diagnosing Faulty AC Fan Motor
#1 Strange Noise
If you notice a strange noise coming from the outdoor unit of your air conditioner, then there may be an issue with your condenser fan motor. Faulty condenser fan motors emit a whirring, rattling, or clunking noise as the motor struggles to maintain its function. Shut off the air conditioner immediately, and check on the blower motor.
#2 AC Unit Overheating
The condenser fan motor is mainly responsible for drawing out the hot air from your air conditioning system. When the AC fan motor breaks down, it can no longer push the warm air out of the AC unit, causing the unit to overheat. Immediately shut off the air conditioner when this happens to avoid further damage.
#3 Condenser Fan Motor Not Blowing
Another symptom of a faulty condenser fan motor is when you notice there is no exhaust coming out of the outside unit. No exhaust pushed out of your air conditioning unit means that the condenser fan motor is not working properly, and will cause your AC unit to overheat if you keep using the cooling system.
How to Replace AC Condenser Fan Motor: A Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the Power to Your AC Unit
First, cut the power to your AC system. The condenser fan motor powers the fan blades and blower of the air conditioning unit, so it is best to shut off the air conditioning unit to prevent accidents, electrocution, and damages to your AC components.
Step 2: Unbolt the Housing of the Outdoor Unit
The next step is to unbolt the housing of the outdoor unit. Use a screwdriver or a power drill to unscrew the bolts holding the unit in place. Carefully remove the panels, and set them aside. Make sure to keep all the screws and bolts labeled to piece them back together later on.
Step 3: Locate the Fan Motor, and Take a Reference Photo
Next, locate the fan motor. Depending on the model of your condenser unit, you may see the condenser fins and coils first before you get to the fan motor. Remove the obstructing parts, and take a reference photo of the fan motor to know the proper wiring connections.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wires, and Unbolt the Blower Motor
Disconnect the wires, and unbolt the blower motor from its perch. Carefully cut the wires, or remove the pieces joining the wires together, if any. Use a screwdriver or power drill to remove the bolts holding the motor in place, then carefully remove the old, faulty motor.
Step 5: Secure the New AC Fan Motor in Place
Place the new AC fan motor, and secure it in place using bolts and screws. Check back at the reference photo to know the proper configuration of the motor. Make sure that the motor is secured on its perch, and won't rotate, move, or shake as the motor operates.
Step 6: Connect the Wires
Reconnect the wires to the new motor. Check back at the reference photo, and reattach the wires together as seen in the photo. Ensure the connections are secure, and make sure they are properly covered from the outdoor elements.
Step 7: Close the Housing, and Restore the Power
Finally, piece the condenser unit back together by placing the condenser coils and fins back together, and securing the housing panels with bolts and screws. To test your AC repair, restore the power back onto your unit, and check for strange sounds, smells, and functions of your new fan motor.
Alternatively, check here for a more complete guide.
AC Fan Motor Replacement Cost
How much does a fan motor replacement cost? There are a number of cost factors included in determining the total cost to replace the fan motor of your AC system. For one, you will need to know the type and model of the broken condenser fan motor to replace it with the same or similar one. Installation and labor costs can drive the price higher as well.
On average, you may be looking at a total cost between $300 to $600, depending on the type of condenser unit you have. An HVAC technician can easily replace the AC fan motors for you, but you may need to factor in extra budget for labor.
Where to Buy Replacement Condenser Fan Motor
#1 Official Stores
Most air conditioner brands have AC condenser fan motors available for purchase as a replacement part. This is an ideal place for you to purchase your condenser fan motor replacement as official stores often provide warranties, and will immediately know the right model you need for your unit. However, they cannot install the fan motor for you.
#2 Hardware Stores
Some hardware stores carry AC condenser fan motor replacement units for common air conditioner brands, but you may have trouble looking for a hardware store that carries your specific fan motor model.
#3 Air Conditioner Repair Companies
Our purchasing services at Luce will match you with the right kind of fan motor you need for your AC unit. Skip the guesswork, and let our HVAC professionals guide you in purchasing the correct fan motor replacement, which our technicians can install into your air conditioning system at moderate installation costs.
Looking for an aircon part? Give us a call to avail of our purchasing services, and make your aircon repairs easy, convenient, and stress-free!
