Blower fans are responsible for distributing cool air through your home. Located at the base of the air handler, they draw warm air down into your air conditioner, pushing it through the evaporator where it’s cooled and blown back into your house. Without a functional fan, your air conditioning system cannot manage indoor temperatures. Regrettably, blower fans occasionally encounter problems with their motors. Sometimes the problem stems from bad wiring or a faulty capacitor. Other times, the control circuits have encountered an error and, like a computer, need to be powered down and restarted. For homeowners whose fans won’t start or that start and stop sporadically, here is how to reset a blower motor.
How to Reset a Blower Motor
Resetting a blower motor is a surprisingly simple procedure that can be completed without professional assistance. You’ll need a flashlight, screwdriver, and some rags. Consult your manual before you start, for specific instructions related to your fan. However, for most fans, the process is fairly straightforward.
- Cut Power to the Air Conditioner. Always cut power from your electrical panel before working with electrical appliances. Locate the right breaker switch and flip it from “ON” to “OFF.”
- Access the Blower Motor. As stated above, blower motors are housed inside the air handler, normally located in your basement or attic. Some panels open with a latch, while others are screwed in place. If this is the case, remove the screws and store them somewhere safe before setting the panel aside.
- Inspect the Motor. Contact an HVAC tech if you see any visible damage (cracks, discoloration, scorch marks), which might indicate a serious problem with the fan. Otherwise, clear away any dust or debris with a rag, making sure to work gently.
- Reset the Motor. Most blower motors are controlled by a red or black switch on the side of the unit. Hold the button down for a few seconds (the manual will tell you precisely how long), then release.
- Replace the Panel and Restore Power. Reattach the panel, making sure it’s secure before going back to the breaker box and restoring power to the unit.
Once current is flowing back into the unit, set the thermostat to your desired temperature. If the fan switches on and starts circulating air, then the problem has been resolved. However, if the fan is still inoperable, calling an HVAC contractor is your best course of action.
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Repairing a blower fan can cost hundreds of dollars and derail your household budget. Most fan repairs come about due to wear and tear, one of the few types of damage not covered by home insurance. Agway, on the other hand, specializes in this type of protection. Our EnergyGuardTM Home Repair Program covers your heating, cooling, and electrical systems from problems brought about by daily use.
When the need for repair occurs, our customers don’t have to worry about finding a qualified repairman. They call us instead. We maintain an extensive network of HVAC contractors in your area and send the first available one straight to your door. There are no service fees or deductibles either. We pay for the visit and all covered parts. Don’t let a malfunction upset your finances. Sign up and start enjoying the benefits of EnergyGuardTM today!
