The condenser fan located inside your outdoor HVAC unit is critical to the performance of your cooling system. The fan motor is what turns the blades to create air movement across the condenser coil and aid the heat transfer process. Keeping the HVAC condenser fan motor working properly can help extend the life of key components housed in your outdoor unit.
Leading Condenser Fan Motor Problem: Overheating
Condenser fans are designed to operate safely up to a certain temperature, which is typically 150 degrees. If the motor overheats, it can seize up and stop working. Over time, a non-functioning fan can result in damage to your HVAC system’s most costly component – the compressor.
There are certain signs that warn you the fan motor has gone bad:
- Your cooling system runs, but airflow from your vents no longer feels cool.
- The top of the condenser cabinet feels hot (not warm) to the touch.
- There’s a steady buzzing or humming noise coming from the outdoor unit.
Underlying Reasons Why a Condenser Fan Fails
There are a few reasons why a condenser fan motor might overheat and quit working properly, such as:
- Faulty motor. The motor can give out due to age, or it may be faulty and fail prematurely.
- Bad capacitor. If the start-run capacitor malfunctions, the fan may not start, or may turn too slowly.
- Circuit board or wiring problems. The fan might run intermittently, quit running repeatedly, or stop altogether.
- Restricted airflow. Insufficient space around the outdoor cabinet can restrict airflow through the unit and cause the fan motor to overheat.
- Lack of maintenance. A build up of dirt and debris on and around the fan, and/or friction from a lack of lubricant can cause overheating.
Yearly professional maintenance is a necessity to keep your condenser fan working properly and avoid discomfort and damage to your HVAC system. A technician will inspect and clean the fan, and lubricate its moving parts to ensure it stays running reliably.
To schedule maintenance that includes HVAC condenser fan motor care for your Lorain home, contact us at Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area