How Much Does It Cost to Replace an HVAC Blower Motor?
If you're experiencing issues with your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, it could be due to a faulty blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for circulating air throughout your home or building. If it breaks down, it can cause your HVAC system to malfunction. Blower motor replacement can be a costly repair, but it's important to address the issue to ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently.
In this article, we'll find out what is a blower motor, the cost of HVAC blower motor replacement and factors that can impact the overall cost. Also, you’ll get to know the signs to replace the blower motor of your furnace or AC and how to replace HVAC blower motor hassle-freely.
What is a blower motor? what does a blower motor do?
A blower motor is responsible for circulating air throughout the system to ensure that warm or cool air reaches every part of the space. There are different types of blower motors, including furnace blower motor, AC blower motor, and HVAC blower motors, each designed for a specific purpose.
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A typical blower motor consists of a motor, a fan, and a blower motor resistor that regulates the motor's speed. The motor provides the energy to turn the fan blades, while the blower motor resistor controls the motor's speed to ensure the right amount of air is circulated throughout the system.
The primary function of a blower motor is to ensure proper air circulation in your HVAC system, which is critical for your comfort and health. During the summer months, the AC blower motor circulates cool air throughout your home, while in the winter, the furnace blower motor circulates warm air. The blower motor works by drawing in air from the return ducts and pushing it through the heat exchanger or evaporator coil before distributing it throughout the system.
Without a functioning blower motor, the air would remain stagnant and result in an uncomfortable indoor environment. If you notice reduced airflow or strange noises coming from your HVAC system, it may be time to check the blower motor and the blower motor resistor to ensure they are working correctly.
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Signs to replace blower motor of your furnace or AC
The blower motor is a complex mechanism, consisting of an electric motor, fan blades, and other parts, that can experience wear and tear over time. If you suspect that your blower motor is malfunctioning, it is essential to replace it immediately to avoid costly repairs or replacements of the entire system.
Here are some signs to look out for that may indicate that it is time to replace your blower motor:
Poor Airflow: If you notice a decrease in airflow from your vents, it could be a sign of a failing blower motor. A weak airflow may indicate that the motor is not functioning properly, resulting in poor air circulation and lower indoor air quality.
Strange Noises: If you hear strange noises coming from your furnace or AC, it could be due to a faulty blower motor. Squealing, grinding, or rattling sounds are a common sign that the motor is wearing out and requires immediate replacement.
Overheating: If you notice that your HVAC system is overheating or the blower motor feels hot to the touch, it could be a sign of a malfunctioning blower motor. Due to overheating the motor and other components of your HVAC system can be damaged.
High Energy Bills: A faulty blower motor can result in higher energy bills as it requires more energy to operate. Increases in your monthly energy costs may be the result of a faulty blower motor.
Age of the Motor: Like any other mechanical component, the blower motor has a limited lifespan. If your HVAC system is more than ten years old, it may be time to consider replacing the blower motor to avoid costly repairs or replacements of the entire system.
How to replace HVAC blower motor?
Here are the basic steps for replacing an HVAC blower motor:
- Turn off the power to your HVAC system at the circuit breaker.
- Locate the blower motor which is in the air handler or furnace cabinet of your HVAC system. Or else, check behind a removable panel or cover.
- Disconnect the electrical connections. Use a screwdriver, remove any screws or bolts that are holding the electrical connections to the blower motor. Carefully detach the electrical connections from the blower motor and set them aside.
- Remove the blower motor . Use a wrench or pliers to remove any screws or bolts that are securing the blower motor to the air handler or furnace cabinet. Carefully remove the blower motor from the system.
- Replace the blower motor. Install the new blower motor in the same location as the old one. Use the same screws or bolts to secure it to the air handler or furnace cabinet.
- Reconnect the electrical connections. Carefully reattach the electrical connections to the new blower motor. Double-check that all connections are secure.
- Finally, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and test the system to make sure the new blower motor is working properly. If the blower motor is not working, you may need to replace the blower motor resistor as well.
Furnace blower motor replacement may require additional steps, such as removing the furnace from the cabinet or disconnecting gas lines. Always refer to your system's manual or consult a professional if you are unsure about any part of the process.
What to consider to assess blower motor replacement costs?
If your blower motor is not functioning correctly, it may be time to consider a replacement. However, before jumping into a blower motor replacement, there are several factors to consider when assessing the costs involved.
Type of System
The type of system you have, whether it is a furnace or air conditioning system, will influence the cost of a HVAC blower motor replacement. Furnaces typically require larger motors than air conditioners, which can affect the overall cost of the replacement.
Motor Type : A blower motor can either be a single-speed model or a variable-speed model. In comparison to variable-speed motors, single-speed motors are more affordable. However, variable-speed motors are more energy-efficient, which could lead to cost savings on utility bills.
Age of the System : The age of your furnace or air conditioning system can affect the cost of a HVAC blower motor replacement. If your system is relatively new, it may be under warranty, which can significantly reduce the cost of the replacement. On the other hand, if your system is old, it may be more expensive to find a replacement motor that is compatible.
Labor Costs : Depending on factors like distance from a major city and the experience level of the technician, the price of labor can range widely. To save money, get estimates from several technicians and compare their work.
Home AC or furnace blower motor cost
The blower motor for a home air conditioner or furnace can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 on its own, depending on the manufacturer, the motor size, and the speed.
| Horsepower | Furnace & AC blower motor prices |
| One-quarter horsepower | $70 – $500 |
| One-third horsepower | $100 – $800 |
| One-half horsepower | $120 – $1,000 |
| Three-quarter horsepower | $150 – $1,500 |
| One horsepower | $250 – $2,000 |
Cost of a HVAC blower motor replacement by brand
Here are the current average prices for HVAC blower motor replacement from popular brands:
| Brand Name | HVAC Blower motor replacement cost by brand |
| American Standard | $180 – $2,000 |
| Trane | $180 – $2,000 |
| Carrier | $100 – $1,600 |
| Goodman | $100 – $1,200 |
| Amana | $100 – $1,200 |
| Rheem | $130 – $1,300 |
| York | $130 – $1,800 |
DIY vs hiring an HVAC professional for blower motor replacement
The replacement of a furnace blower motor is a challenging operation that is typically best left to professionals in the field of HVAC. The vast majority of householders do not have experience in replacing motors or have a solid understanding of how a furnace operates. If this task is carried out without the appropriate knowledge and training, there is a possibility that the furnace will fail to function properly. Also, it can consume an excessive amount of electricity, or even start a fire.
A HVAC professional will be familiar with the correct procedures for replacing a blower motor, including the necessary precautions to take when dealing with gas and electricity. The professional who is knowledgeable about furnaces will be able to provide the homeowner with an estimate of the costs and a timetable for the work.
When you hire a professional to complete this task, you get the added advantage of having access to their expertise regarding the overall condition of the furnace. They may recommend additional repairs or enhancements in order to ensure that the system in the home is in proper functioning order.
Tips to save money on blower motor replacement cost
Repairing or replacing your furnace's blower motor can be quite an expensive undertaking. You can, however, save yourself some significant money while still doing an adequate job by following a few straightforward recommendations.
Maintenance : Regular maintenance on your heating system ensures that it is always clean and in good working order. It not only makes unexpected repairs less likely, but it also makes the parts of the furnace last longer.
Multiple Quotes : Before making a final choice regarding the replacement of your furnace's blower motor, it is highly recommended that you first get at least three estimates from different local businesses. Compare the prices to determine which one offers the best value given your requirements.
Rebates : Investing in a new heating system? When you make your purchase, sign up for a rebate program so that you can receive a portion of the cost back. This will help you save money on your monthly utility bills.
As a general rule, replacing the blower motor is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire HVAC system. Investing in routine maintenance can help prevent costly repairs down the line. Overall, it's essential to prioritize regular maintenance and address issues promptly to ensure the long-term efficiency and functionality of your HVAC system.
FAQs on Blower Motor
How long do HVAC blower motors last?
A blower motor's lifespan depends on factors such as its usage, maintenance, and quality. It is estimated that HVAC blower motors last between ten and twenty years on average.
What causes blower motor failure?
Blower motor failure can be caused by a number of factors, including worn-out brushes, a faulty capacitor, a malfunctioning control module, or a burned-out motor. The specific cause depends on the age and usage of the motor, as well as the quality of its components.
How do I know if my HVAC blower motor is bad?
If your HVAC blower motor is bad, you may notice decreased airflow from your vents or strange noises coming from the unit.
How long does it take to replace a blower motor?
The time it takes to replace a blower motor in a furnace or AC system can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of unit, the complexity of the repair, and the experience of the technician. In general, a straightforward replacement of a blower motor can take anywhere from 1 to 4 hours. In some cases, the repair may take longer if the unit has additional problems.
