Should I replace the condenser fan motor?
Before you replace the air conditioner fan motor, it is a good idea to consider the cost and to consider whether it is worth replacing. Some of the factors to consider are listed below.
- Will you be able to perform the job yourself?
- What is the cost for a replacement motor?
- Would it be cheaper in the long run to replace the entire unit?
- How do you know the fan motor is bad?
Can I replace the motor myself?
The job of replacing the condenser fan motor is relatively easy DIY project and you can even watch the HvacRepairGuy video to see how to do it.
AC Fan Replacement
What does it cost to replace the motor?
The cost for a HVAC company to replace the motor will typically be around 500 dollars with about 250 dollars for the part and another 250 dollars for the labor of the HVAC technician.
If you do it yourself, you can get a universal replacement motor for about 150 dollars and save all of the labor cost for an average savings of about 350 dollars.
Should I replace the entire air conditioner?
If you have had many problems with your current ac unit and it is more than ten years old, you might want to consider replacing the entire unit. Newer units are more efficient and can provide substantial savings on your electric bill as well as having a warranty so that you do not have to worry about having future problems. The cost for a new central ac system can be from two to four thousand dollars and you should consider whether you plan on staying in the home long enough time to make the cost worthwhile.
How do I know the ac fan motor is bad?
To begin, shut the power off to the unit and check to see if the fan blade spins freely. If it does not, the motor should be replaced. If the blade spins freely, you should feel the motor to see if it is hot.
If the motor is hot, you should check it's run capacitor using our handy guide and replace it as necessary. If the run capacitor was bad, you should allow the fan motor to cool. Then you can turn the unit back on and see if the motor starts and comes up to speed. If the fan fails to start or does not run at full speed, it should be replaced.
Replacement Motor Selection
The next step, in air conditioner fan replacement, is to select the proper replacement motor. This is also a good time to consider a money saving upgrade for your air conditioner.
All motors have a model/manufacturers number on them. You can usually find an exact replacement with that number.
If you are unable to find an exact replacement, you can usually use a universal replacement. Here is what you should look for and match:
- The motor diameter in inches (3.3, 5, 5.5, 6.5)
- The operating voltage (115, 208-230, 460)
- The horsepower (1/8, 1/6, 1/4, 1/3, 1/2) ** Many universal replacement motors have more than one horsepower rating**
- The size of the shaft in inches
- The speed in rpm
- The direction of rotation. (** Many universal replacement motors are dual rotation. The direction of rotation is easily changed to meet the required need.**)
- The mounting method. (** Many universal replacement motors can be mounted in multiple ways.**)
Air Conditioner Fan Replacement
- Ensure that the power to the unit is off
- Write down the colors of the fan motor wires and where they are connected
- Remove the motor and fan assembly. (There are several different ways that they can be mounted. Generally, what is required is to loosen the bolt on the band that holds the motor in place. On some units, the motor mounts are built into the motor.)
- Remove the fan blade from the motor. (It is important that you note the orientation of the blade on the motor shaft. To remove the fan blade, loosen the set screws and twist and pull the blade off the shaft.)
- The replacement motor is installed by simply reversing the removal procedure. (You should pay special attention to make sure the fan blade is centered in the opening on the unit.)
- The run capacitor should be replaced anytime a motor is replaced. (Ensure that you have the proper size for your motor and the desired horsepower (for multi horsepower motors).)
- Complete your air conditioner fan replacement by verifying proper rotation and cooling system operation