An HVAC system consists of many moving parts that work together to ensure your comfort. It can be overwhelming to know how all of this works, but as a responsible homeowner, it is always a good idea to understand the key functions of some important parts. For example, when you get your HVAC unit serviced, you might come across something known as a blower motor. You may understand that this is a key component of your HVAC system. But, do you really know the answer to what is a blower motor?
In this article, we explain what a blower motor is, the common problems encountered with these motors, and why they are critical to the functioning of every HVAC unit. To learn more or schedule HVAC maintenance if you are experiencing problems with your HVAC blower motor or any other HVAC components, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons in St. Louis today.
What is an HVAC Blower Motor?
To explain it in simple terms, a blower motor is a key part of your HVAC unit that ensures that your home temperature is set according to the thermostat. It is responsible for sending the conditioned air from the heat pump, air conditioner, or furnace into the entire home. Once the air is cooled/heated, the blower turns a fan that forces this air through the ducts and out of the vents located in different parts of your house.
Blower Motor Types
Now that you know the answer to what is a blower motor, it is important to understand the types. Every HVAC unit comes with two options for blower motors. The two types are single-speed blower motor and variable-speed blower motor.
- Single Speed Blower: This type of blower motor turns on only when the temperature of your house (as indicated in the thermostat) increases or drops well past the set temperature. Once the appropriate indoor temperature is reached, it switches off.
- Variable Speed Blower: This blower motor is quite different from the first one, as it comes with the ability to move at different speeds. As a result, the flow of air into your home can be better controlled. Also known as Electronically Commutated Motor (ECM), the variable speed blower motor is considered to be more energy-efficient as it runs at low speeds to provide continuous air circulation.
Which is Better – Variable Speed or Single Speed
Single-speed blower motors and variable-speed blower motors are quite different from each other. The best way to understand them is with this example of a car with multiple gears. When driving a car, you will find that you have to switch gears based on what is needed, which is exactly what a variable speed blower motor does with its speed. A single-speed motor, on the other hand, runs at only one speed (full or nothing). So, here is what makes the variable speed motor better:
- Variable speed motors consume only around 2-4 amps of electricity, making them more energy-efficient. Less energy consumption translates into lower utility bills.
- They prevent cold spots in your home by circulating air through the home more frequently.
- Variable-speed motors operate with lesser noise than single-speed ones.
- They deliver consistent performance and more comfort.
What are Common Issues with Blower Motors?
Now that you understand what a blower motor is, it is important to understand the problems that can occur. Problems with your HVAC unit’s blower are bound to occur from time to time, which is why regular maintenance is necessary for ensuring smooth operation. Common issues include:
- Faulty control or fan relay
- Faulty fan belt
- Faulty motor
- Bad wiring
- Weak or bad motor capacitor
- Blocked filter
- Climate control switch problem
- Debris-clogged blower wheel
Schedule Your HVAC Unit Servicing with Galmiche & Sons Today
To prevent any blower motor problems from occurring in the first place, it is a good idea to get your HVAC unit serviced regularly (before the start of every winter or summer). If you are experiencing any issues with your blower motor or just want to schedule your annual maintenance, contact Galmiche & Sons today at 314-993-1110. Our St. Louis expert heating and air conditioning technicians will answer all of your questions about what a blower motor is and will ensure that your HVAC unit is running as smoothly as it should.
