Fans are used for various purposes. They are used for applications such as cooling and ventilation. You may also be familiar with the condenser fan motor as part of your air conditioning system. Yet, it is possible that you do not know much about it — how it works or how to maintain it properly. As a result, you likely often make a mistake when using it. Although you may know that they help keep your home a lot warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This article will explain what a condenser fan motor is and the most common issues you might experience with it. 

What Is a Condenser Fan Motor?

The condenser fan motor is crucial in distributing the heat from within your home to the outside. This type of cooling fan is designed to help remove heat from an HVAC system. They are typically found near the bottom of an HVAC unit, behind a backdoor electrical panel. The spinning blades move air over the condenser to move heat away from the refrigerant. The blades pick up warm air from the compressor and send it through an evaporator coil into your home. 

Common Condenser Fan Motor Issues

The condenser fan blades are not turning

This problem could be due to an electrical issue, but it could also be caused by something else. For example, the fan blades not turning could be caused by an issue with the power coming into the system. Other times, it could be because of an issue with the motor itself. In either case, we recommend replacing the motor to get your air conditioner back up and running normally.

The fan makes a rattling noise at high speed

Something must be in the way of the fan, such as obstructions or debris. That causes friction, which causes heat and more strain on the motor — eventually leading to a much louder noise than usual. That can also make it difficult (or even impossible) for air to move through the system.

The AC fan motor blades spin slowly

Is your condenser fan running slower than normal? It may mean that the equipment’s voltage is lower than normal. Alternatively, there may be issues with the A/C’s circuit board. Also, if the fan motor’s bearings get damaged, the motor will not spin freely. 

There are loose condenser fan blades

The blades on your condenser fan may be loose. It can be a minor problem, such as needing to tighten a few screws, or it could be more major, such as an issue with the motor. Loose blades can become bent or broken, which can damage your system.

The condenser fan is short cycling

Short cycling occurs when the system turns on and off too often, rapidly, or irregularly. Causes of short cycling include a refrigerant leak, evaporator coil icing, and control board or switch problems. It can also indicate that the fan motor is getting older and may eventually fail. 

Troubleshooting Your Condenser Fan Motor

You may perform a few checks if you suspect your condenser fan motor is faulty. These include the following:

  • Check the motor bearings and shaft
  • Test the motor windings for opens or shorts
  • Check the motor windings for short to ground
  • Test the motor capacitor

However, we recommend you contact a professional air conditioning service for help. Unless you are confident and experienced in HVAC repairs, repairing it yourself could lead to more problems and expenses.

Air Conditioner Repair Near Me

When your air conditioning system breaks down, you want a company you can count on to do the job. Pioneers Heating and Air is your one-stop shop for all your heating, cooling, and air conditioning needs. We are BBB-rated, so you can be confident your repair project is in good hands with us. Our technicians specialize in repairs and replacements of air conditioning units, condenser fan motors, and other parts. Plus, we offer competitive prices and great deals on new HVAC installations. So call us today if you need top-quality HVAC service in Pasadena and Altadena, CA. 

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