HVAC systems consist of many components, each playing an important role in the heating process. Whether your Birmingham, AL area home utilizes a furnace or a heat pump for wintertime warmth, a blower fan is the component responsible for moving heat to living areas, keeping your family cozy.
Douglas Cooling & Heating provides expert HVAC services in Birmingham to care for all heating system components. Below, we’ll share more information about your heating system’s blower fan to better understand its importance to the heating process. In addition, we’ll cover how to know if yours requires service.
What Is an HVAC Blower Fan?
The HVAC blower fan, also called a blower motor, is the system component responsible for circulating heated air through the home’s ductwork. The blower fan also works during the cooling process to circulate chilled air throughout the home.
Blower motors can be single-speed or variable-speed.
- Single-speed blower motors work at one speed. They operate at full energy capacity to blow air through the ductwork.
- Variable-speed blower motors operate at different speeds based on the comfort needs of the home. This type of blower motor uses less energy and delivers better temperature and humidity control.
HVAC Blower Fan Trouble Signs
If your HVAC system’s blower fan isn’t operating correctly, comfort control issues result. Solving blower motor problems often requires the assistance of a qualified HVAC technician. Below are some signs your blower fan needs service from an HVAC professional.
Heating system runs constantly without creating comfortable indoor temperatures
A furnace that runs around the clock without keeping indoor living areas at a comfortable temperature needs service. While the furnace or heat pump is creating or transferring heat to warm the air, this warm air is not being sent into your home.
A blower motor malfunction is likely the source of this issue. Loose, worn out belts or bad bearings may prevent the blower fan from operating correctly. Another example is the blower fan may not be receiving power. This may be due to a flipped breaker or a short in the component’s electrical wiring.
Loud noises when furnace starts, stops, or runs
Faulty blower fan components can be responsible for sudden, unsettling sounds when your furnace or air handler runs.
Squeals
Loose blower motor belts often cause a squeal when the heating system runs. Unlubricated shaft bearings can also cause a similar noise. Our HVAC technicians solve the issue when they tighten or replace belts and lubricate bearings.
Scrapes or Clanks
These sounds of metal against metal result from a loose blower fan wheel. When the blower fan is loose, it strikes the housing casing. This causes the scraping sound during heating cycle operation. If you hear this sound, turn off the heating system right away and contact us for help. Our HVAC technicians inspect the system for damage and replace broken components.
Screeches and Rattles
Sounds at the start of a heating cycle are often related to the bearings within the blower fan. If the bearings are not lubricated regularly, the blower fan may seize and cause damage to the system as well as strange noises.
Your heating system’s blower fan is key for the distribution of warm air throughout your Birmingham, AL area home. Regular preventative maintenance and tune ups can keep your blower motor in good working order. Service prevents performance issues such as efficiency and comfort loss, plus potential damage.
For the most convenience and value, check out our Maintenance Agreements. We offer three levels to fit every budget.
Douglas Cooling & Heating in Birmingham is Your HVAC Partner
Protect your HVAC system’s blower fan with maintenance and repair from Douglas Service. If you experience any of the issues mentioned above, contact us now and schedule a service call. If you find you need to replace, we offer free estimates and finance options.
