How often do you need to replace a blower motor?
The blower motor in your HVAC system is a critical component that circulates air throughout your home. Knowing when to replace this motor can help ensure your home stays comfortable and your system runs efficiently. As a general rule, you should replace your blower motor every 10-15 years, or sooner if it starts exhibiting signs of wear and tear.
What is a Blower Motor?
The blower motor is responsible for pushing air through the ductwork and into the various rooms of your home. It is an essential part of your HVAC system, as it ensures the heated or cooled air produced by the furnace or air conditioner is distributed evenly throughout your living space. Without a functioning blower motor, your HVAC system would be unable to circulate air effectively.
Signs Your Blower Motor Needs Replacement
- Unusual Noises: If your blower motor is making grinding, squealing, or rattling noises, it may be a sign that the motor bearings are wearing out and the motor needs to be replaced.
- Reduced Airflow: If you notice a decrease in the amount of air coming from your vents, it could indicate that the blower motor is failing and not able to push air through the ductwork as efficiently.
- Increased Energy Bills: As a blower motor ages, it may become less efficient, causing your HVAC system to work harder and use more energy to circulate air, leading to higher utility bills.
- Frequent Cycling: If your HVAC system is constantly turning on and off, it could be a sign that the blower motor is struggling to maintain the desired airflow, causing the system to cycle more frequently.
If you notice any of these issues, it's a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your blower motor and determine if it needs to be replaced.
Factors Affecting Blower Motor Lifespan
The lifespan of a blower motor can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Usage: Blower motors that run more frequently, such as in homes with larger HVAC systems or in hot or cold climates, will generally have a shorter lifespan than those in more moderate climates with less HVAC usage.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the blower motor and ensuring the system is free of debris, can help extend the motor's lifespan.
- Quality: Higher-quality blower motors tend to last longer than cheaper, lower-quality models.
By being aware of the signs of a failing blower motor and taking steps to maintain your HVAC system, you can help ensure your blower motor lasts as long as possible and keep your home comfortable year-round.
What is the lifespan of a blower?
between 15 and 20 years
Typically, the lifespan of furnace blower motors spans from a minimum of 10 years up to about 20 years, with most enduring an average period between 15 and 20 years. The same blower motor is used for both heating in the winter and cooling in the summer, making it essential for maintaining indoor climate control.
What makes a blower motor go bad?
Overheating is one of the most frequent occurrences that can render the blower motor inoperative. If the motor has overheated, it may shut itself down to prevent damage. You should keep your HVAC clean and clear of any blockages or debris to avoid overheating and maintain efficiency.
Is it worth replacing a blower motor?
Replacing the blower motor is likely the best decision if your furnace is under warranty or relatively new. It might be better to replace the furnace if it's old or has a lot of issues that require frequent repairs. On average, a new blower motor costs $300 to $900.
Is it expensive to replace a blower motor?
The average blower motor replacement cost is $560, but the final price depends on labor fees, as well as the cost of the parts. Some higher-end models feature large or hard-to-reach motors, which could bring your HVAC blower replacement cost to as much as $2,400.
How long should a blower motor last?
10 to 20 years
Blower motors are designed to last just as long as your furnace itself, anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Just as with any HVAC system, the better maintained and serviced your equipment is by experienced HVAC technicians the longer it will last and the fewer repairs you'll face.
What is the lifespan of a car blower motor?
While a well-maintained blower motor can last the lifetime of your vehicle, factors such as wear and tear, corrosion, and electrical issues can cause premature failure. If you experience any symptoms of a bad blower motor, it's important to have it checked and replaced if necessary to avoid further damage.
How do I know if my blower motor is going out?
Weak or No Airflow From The Vents
Since a blower motor's whole job is to force air through your vents, a key sign it might be broken is if little to no airflow is coming from your vents.
How can you tell if your car blower motor is bad?
Compartment. Here's the location on a toyota camry. And here's the location on a suzuki ferenza. The first symptom is unusual noises.
How much does it cost to replace a blower motor?
Average Costs for Blower Motor Replacement
Standard Blower Motors: These might cost between $400-700, excluding labor. Advanced Multi-Speed or Variable-Speed Motors: These are generally more expensive, with costs ranging between $650-1250, not including labor.
How do I know if my blower motor needs to be replaced?
No Airflow
If you notice that there is no warm air at all coming through your heat registers, then you may have a broken blower motor. This generally means the blower motor has failed completely, which may indicate there have been problems for a while.
