Air Conditioner Fan [Detailed Guide, Problems & Solutions]

One of the most critical parts of an air conditioner is the fan. Most air conditioners have two fans: a blower and a condenser fan. This article is a guide on using the fan and how to fix possible problems.

Table of Contents

Air Conditioner Fan Speed Adjustment

It is pretty straightforward to adjust the fan speed of your air conditioner. On your remote control, you will see a button labeled Fan Speed. Press it, and the fan speed will change between high, medium, and low. The fan speed you use per time will depend on the mode of operation.

What Does an Air Conditioner Fan Do?

An air conditioner fan has several functions. It circulates the cold air in the room and keeps the humidity down when it operates alone. The condenser fan keeps the compressor and condenser coil from overheating.

Air Conditioner Fan Not Working – How to Fix

Several faults can lead to the fan in your air conditioner not working, and we discuss them below:

1. Faulty Thermostat

Look at the thermostat to see if it is lit. Old batteries can stop it from working as it should. If the thermostat is not lit, remove and check the batteries. If possible, replace them and try using the thermostat again. 

Set the mode and operating mode for the air conditioner when it comes on.  For the fan to work, the cooling function must be running. So, adjust the settings, give the unit time to run, and see if the problem stops. If it does, you may have to replace the thermostat. Using the correct air conditioner temperature setting conserves energy without compromising on comfort.

2. Defective Fan Motor

Sometimes, the thermostat is not the source of the problem. So, if replacing the thermostat batteries or the thermostat does not solve the fan problem, check the motor. Turn off the air conditioner and open the front cover if it is the blower. Locate the blower and remove it.

Next, disconnect the wires and test the motor’s continuity using a multimeter. There must be a reading on the meter’s display to correspond with the values on the specifications sheet. If the value does not fit or the reading shows infinity or 0, the motor no longer works and requires a replacement.

The same steps apply to the condenser fan if it is not working. You will have to disconnect power to the outdoor unit, remove the condenser cover, and inspect the fan. Sometimes, debris can clog the motor and stop it from running. So, clean the motor and blades, turn them with your hand, and check how freely they turn.

If they show signs of stiffness, the problem may stem from the motor bearings, but also check the motor shaft to eliminate it from the list of possible causes. Also, ensure the blades are not damaged. Otherwise, replace them. And if the blades are in good working condition, run a continuity test on the motor and replace it if necessary.

3. Tripped Breaker

Checking the motor will inform you whether or not it is getting power. Check the circuit breaker if the motor is not faulty yet the fan is not working. This is especially necessary if there was a recent power outage, and a surge or spike in voltage may have tripped the breaker.

Turn it on if it is off or reset it. Next, turn on the air conditioner and wait for the compressor to run. Then, check the fan. If nothing changes, there may be a bad fuse in the breaker, and you need the services of a technician or electrician to solve the problem.

4. Clogged Filter

Typically, the air filter in your air conditioner, whether a central air conditioner, window, wall, split, or portable air conditioner, must be removed and cleaned every month. The reason is the filter tends to get dirty quickly, especially if the air quality in the area is poor. A dirty air filter can cause several problems in an air conditioner, including a faulty fan.

It is easy to clean the filter. Remove it from the air conditioner and put it in a sink. Pour a little mild detergent on it and run warm water over it. Wash it until it is thoroughly clean, rinse, and dry. Then, leave it out to air-dry. It is crucial that the filter completely dries before putting back into the air conditioner to prevent mold growth.

Some air filters do not need constant cleaning, such as the ionized types. They can stay in use and only need cleaning every three to six months. But most air conditioners use regular filters that need monthly cleaning and a replacement every three months.

An extremely clogged fan can stop the airflow so that it appears the blower is not working. You can only determine whether or not this is the case after cleaning or replacing the filter.

5. Frozen Evaporator Coil

One of the issues a significantly dirty filter causes is an ice accumulation on the evaporator coil. When air cannot get through the filter, the temperature of the coil will drop to the freezing point due to the cold refrigerant flowing in it. Also, dirt blankers the coil and prevents cold air from flowing out and causing extreme damage.

If you find that the coil is frozen, clean the filter or replace it and check the blower. A malfunctioning fan can also cause ice to accumulate on the coil. If the blower is not working, replace it, turn off the air conditioner, and allow the evaporator coil to thaw.

6. Damaged Run Capacitor

If your air conditioner does not run at all or constantly runs with a loud humming sound, the run capacitor may be damaged. That means the compressor and fan are not working as they should because the capacitor should supply the power for the components to operate. 

The same applies if the unit has a hard time starting, starts but does not blow cold air, or starts and shuts down within a short period. This article explains how to test the capacitor. And if it is no longer working, replace it.

7. Malfunctioning Compressor

A malfunctioning compressor may be due to a few reasons, one of them being a faulty condenser fan. But if you find other parts in good working condition and the compressor not working as it should, it may also indicate that the fan is no longer working.

A compressor that trips off too frequently will eventually affect the fan’s capacity to run, whether it is the blower or condenser. The same applies to other components. So, test the compressor to check for other faulty components to see if it gets power. It may have loose internal parts or an open circuit.

It is always best to contact the manufacturer if you notice problems with your air conditioner, especially if the appliance is still under warranty. Alternatively, contact a trusted independent technician for further assistance.

Air Conditioner Fan Making Noise – Solved

Noise from the fan in your air conditioner is likely from the blades or motor. If a shriek is coming from the unit, the bearings may be damaged in the motor. They cannot be repaired; the only solution is to replace the motor in such a situation.

The fan belt may be broken, and this can generate noise. The same also applies if there is a piece of debris stuck in the motor or the blades are hitting against the housing. Turn off the air conditioner and check the condensing unit. Inspect the fan to see if the blades are intact. If they are, check the motor. Also, check the indoor blower if the noise is coming from indoors; its motor may also be faulty and create noise. Replace the motor or fan if it does not seem to be working.

A whirring noise may stem from the condenser fan or blower in the indoor unit. Check the blades to see if debris is caught in them. Clean them if necessary. Also, see if they are tight on the motor shaft and tighten them as needed. 

Check the fan motors if the noise does not come from the blades. It does not have to mean they are faulty; simply cleaning the motors may stop the noise. So, ensure there is no dirt in them and inspect the bearings. Worn bearings tend to create noise. If that is the problem, in this case, you will need new fan motors.

Sometimes, the fan in an air conditioner makes a buzzing sound. Before checking the fans, inspect the condenser coil and compressor; they can also generate noise. If they are quiet, inspect the condenser fan and blower. Ensure they are balanced and the blades are tight on the shafts. If these do not apply, you may have to replace the faulty fan.

What Causes an Air Conditioner Fan to Stop Spinning?

The primary reason an air conditioner fan stops spinning is a faulty run capacitor. The capacitor is the part that keeps the fan up and running after it starts. In some cases, an air conditioner may have more than one capacitor, and others may have a dual-run capacitor that acts as both a start and run capacitor.

Whatever the case, the fan will not spin if the capacitor is dead. Visually inspect it for signs of damage such as rusting or leaking. Also, check to see if it is corroded or bulging. If the component is damaged, replace it. But if there is no clear sign of damage, use a multimeter to test for continuity. Replace the capacitor if it has no continuity.

Other reasons an air conditioner fan stops spinning are insufficient power supply, defective motor or fan, or a faulty fan belt. You should also check the contactor switch and air filter. In addition, debris can stop the fan from spinning by clogging the blades. So, check the fan through the condenser cover and clean it if necessary.

Check out these other articles…

Air Conditioner Condenser [Guide, Problems & Solutions]

Air Conditioner Remote Control [Guide, Problems & Solutions]

Air Conditioner Leaking/Dripping [Proven Solutions]

Do Air Conditioners Clean the Air? [Detailed Answer]

Air Conditioner Modes Explained in Detail

Air Conditioner Evaporator [Detailed Guide & Solutions]

How to Find the Age of a Carrier Air Conditioner [Quick Guide]

What Does an Air Conditioner Fan Do?

There are two fans in a typical air conditioner: a blower and a condenser fan. The blower in an air conditioner ensures the cold or warm air circulates the room. Without the fan, the air cannot spread and may be restricted in the unit. Also, the fan circulates normal room air when the cooling function is off.

The condenser fan is in the outdoor condensing unit and ensures the condenser coil and compressor do not overheat. The outdoor unit may stop working without the condenser fan due to heat. You will find the fan beside the condenser coil and compressor where it is most effective.

One vital advantage of using the fan mode in an air conditioner is that it reduces energy consumption while still producing air, though not cool. When the mode of operation is running, the compressor is off, so power consumption is low. The air conditioner tends to consume power when the cooling function is running and is very low.

Using the fan helps reduce the work that the unit does per time. This fact helps preserve the life of the unit for longer. It does not compromise on releasing enough air when running; the marked difference is that the temperature is not cool. It is usually best to use the mode early in the morning or when the weather is cool. It spreads the already-cool air in the room without increasing the electricity bills.

Air Conditioner Fan Always Running – Solved

Several reasons cause the fan in an air conditioner to keep running, even when the compressor is off. One of them is the size of the unit. A unit with a capacity too small to cool the room will constantly run as it tries to produce and maintain a cool temperature. It is not peculiar to the blower; you may also find the condenser fan running because the compressor and condenser coil will also operate, and the fan will need to keep them cool.

The same applies if the weather is hot and the air conditioner struggles to lower the internal temperature. Check the temperature and mode settings in the air conditioner. Ensure the operating mode is cool and the unit’s set temperature is lower than the ambient temperature. That way, the fan, and compressor will turn on and off at the appropriate time.

Other Possible Reasons

The fan may be set to On on the thermostat, which explains the constant running. Typically, the fan setting should be Auto; the fan runs only when the compressor runs. So, the fan should shut off if you correct the setting. Otherwise, check the next possible cause.

The relay switch may be damaged, or there is faulty wiring in the air conditioner. This issue usually prevents the unit from recognizing when it should turn off or come on again. The same problems can keep the thermostat’s setting from being communicated to the fan. That keeps the fan constantly running. In addition, a defective thermostat cannot regulate the temperature in the room, affecting how the fan responds. If the thermostat no longer works, replace it.

You can test the fan by turning it off and back to Auto to test its functionality. The fan should run only when the air conditioner runs. If that does not work, your air conditioner needs servicing. Schedule an appointment with the manufacturer or hire an independent HVAC technician.

Air Conditioner Fan and Compressor Not Running – Quick Fix

Check to see if the outdoor condensing unit is receiving electric power. One of the most probable reasons for this problem is a lack of electric power. The first step is to check the breaker beside the outdoor unit to see if it tripped. Open the panel and turn the breaker on if it is off. But if not, reset it and recheck the unit.

The breaker may have blown a fuse, and if that is the case, an electrician or HVAC technician needs to find and replace the bad fuse. There may also be an internal problem with the unit, and only a technician can troubleshoot and fix the problem.

Apart from the breaker, the fan’s fault may have caused the compressor to overheat and shut down. This is especially true if the unit constantly runs as it tries to lower the internal temperature. It is crucial to check the condenser and fix possible problems.

Debris can also stop the fan and compressor from working. The unit’s position exposes it to the elements, making it prone to get dirty too often. And when dirt covers it, there is no way for the heat from the refrigerant to be released into the atmosphere. Regularly cleaning the condensing unit will keep this from happening.

Furthermore, check the capacitor. Some air conditioners use only one capacitor for both the compressor and fan, and if the capacitor fails, both parts stop working. Therefore, check and replace the capacitor if it no longer works.

In addition, check the compressor and fan. If nothing else seems to be the cause of the problem, it may be that the compressor is failing or the fan is defective. Check the motor and blades; also, inspect the compressor. If you are unsure of the steps to take, employ the services of a qualified HVAC technician.

Air Conditioner Fan Blowing But Not Cooling – What to Do

A few issues cause an air conditioner fan to run without cooling the room. Do the following if you find the unit running without cold air:

1. Check the Air Filter

Check the filter if the air conditioner’s cooling function is active and the fan is running, but the unit is not blowing cold air. When it is dirty, it slows the flow of cold air from the unit. Typically, the air filter must be removed and cleaned every two weeks. At most, you should clean it every month. Otherwise, it stops functioning correctly.

Some air filters last longer than one month before they need cleaning. For such ones, they last about three or six months before they require washing. However, you must determine the quality of air in your area; it will inform the frequency at which you clean the unit. Also, replace the filters as often as possible to keep the air conditioner in optimum shape.

2. Check the Evaporator Coil

Disconnect the air conditioner from electric power and open the air handler. Inspect the evaporator coil to see if it is frozen. If it is, leave the unit off to give the evaporator coil some time to thaw. Ensure you keep an eye on the drain pan and pipe to prevent excess water from overflowing. Afterward, clean around the coil and check the filter if you have not already done that.

The air filter adversely affects the air conditioner by causing the evaporator coil to freeze. It clogs the coil and prevents it from blowing cold air. And when the temperature of the coil drops past a certain point, it freezes, restricting the flow of cold air.

Another possible cause of a frozen evaporator coil is low refrigerant. When the refrigerant level in the system drops, there will not be enough pressure, and the coil freezes. You may not be sure of the refrigerant problem unless you can detect a leak, which is the only possible reason refrigerant becomes insufficient.

3. Check the Thermostat

If you are sure the air conditioner compressor and fans are running, the problem may stem from the thermostat. An incorrectly set thermostat causes an air conditioner to produce only warm air where you want cool air. Check its setting and adjust it to Cool if it is wrong. Also, ensure the temperature is low enough to accommodate the cooling function.

After that, allow the unit to run for some time to cool the room. That helps you determine whether or not the thermostat is causing the problem. If there is no improvement, you may need a new thermostat. Use the help of a technician or test the thermostat yourself before purchasing one.

4. Check the Condenser 

A clogged condensing unit prevents warm air from leaving the room or air conditioner. It should dissipate the heat from the refrigerant, which it absorbs from the internal air. However, if the condenser cannot perform its duty, the heat becomes trapped and compromises the unit’s functionality. The fan may run but cannot produce cool air.

Since it is outside the house, it is pretty easy for dirt and debris to clog it. Clear away such debris as grass, leaves, lint, and others. If necessary, clean the fins with water, especially with stubborn dirt. Work carefully around the fins to prevent bending or breaking them. If you are unsure of the cleaning steps, which can be tricky because of the fins, call a professional for the job.

5. Check the Refrigerant

Checking the refrigerant level in the air conditioning system may not be a job for untrained personnel. It requires expertise, so it is crucial to contact an HVAC technician for assistance. And if there is a need to recharge the system, they are in the best position to do the job.

When the refrigerant level drops, the air conditioner cannot produce cool air even if the fan constantly blows. The reason is that it is the job of the refrigerant to absorb warmth from the air and leave it cold. An insufficient amount cannot be adequate.

Note: There may be debris stuck in the blades if the other components of the system are working. You may want to determine whether or not the fan’s motor is running while the blades are not turning. If the motor is working, clean the blades to remove every piece of debris.

Air Conditioner Furnace Fan Not Working – Solution

If you find that the furnace blower of your air conditioner is not working, check the breaker that controls the furnace. It may have tripped due to a sudden spike in voltage, especially if there was a recent power outage. If that is the case, turn the breaker on, power the unit, and give it time to produce warm air.

If the problem persists, check the thermostat’s setting. Ensure it is set to Heat and the temperature is high enough to accommodate the mode of operation. Setting it too low may trigger the furnace to think it produces warm air while the room is still cold. Give the unit some to run before deciding if you need to take further steps.

The fan issue may stem from a dirty filter in the furnace. As with every air conditioning, the filter in the furnace must be removed and cleaned every month. When it is significantly dirty, warm air cannot flow out of the unit, giving the impression that the furnace fan no longer works.

Sometimes, the air conditioner will produce a steady flow of cold air instead of warm. It does not mean the furnace fan does not work; after all, some units that have both cooling and heating functions use the same fan. 

However, it may mean that the burner or heat exchanger is faulty. Inspect the flame in the furnace’s burner; it should be all blue. If you see a red, orange, or yellow flame, there is dirt on the burner that needs cleaning. The heat exchanger may also be broken or cracked, which is a safety hazard. Replace it if that is the case.

If none of the above fixes the problem, run a test on the furnace fan. Turn off the furnace and set the thermostat to Fan only. Give the unit several minutes to run, and if the fan automatically comes on, it is not faulty. Something else is causing the problem, and you may need professional services to find and permanently fix it.

But if the fan does not come on, it may be a wiring issue with the breaker or fan motor. The problem may also be with the thermostat. It is best to use the services of an HVAC technician to troubleshoot these parts and fix the problem.

Air Conditioner Fan Goes On and Off – Quick FIx

Check the capacitor and fan motor if the fan constantly turns on and off. It may be that the capacitor is faulty and can no longer supply adequate power to the fan’s motor. You may also notice that the compressor has operating issues if the capacitor is defective.

The fan motor may also be defective due to loose internal wiring or worn bearings. You will need to test the motor using a multimeter to check for continuity and replace the moto if necessary. Dirt can cause the fan to turn on and off in short intervals. The same is true if the thermostat setting is incorrect. 

Therefore, check the condensing unit for trapped dirt and clean it if necessary. Ensure the fan moves freely, and the motor is not noisy. Next, check the thermostat and adjust the setting as needed. If the problem continues after taking these steps, contact a technician for further assistance.

Air Conditioner Fan Making Grinding Noise – Solved

If the noise comes from inside the house, check the blower motor. It may have worn bearings, or the blade is loose from the shaft. But if the noise comes from outside the house, check the fan inside the condensing unit; the motor’s bearings may have worn out, or the blade is no longer attached to the shaft.

If the motor bearings are the problem, you will need to replace the motor. The bearings do not have a replacement, and you cannot fix them any other way. However, if the blade of the condenser or blower is loose, try fixing it back on the shaft using new screws. And if the blade is broken, replace it or the entire fan assembly.

Air Conditioner Fan Hitting Something – Quick Fix

The fan is most likely loose or has shifted from its position in the unit. The blade may have loosened on the motor shaft and is hitting the sides of the housing. Disconnect the unit from electric power and inspect the fan. Sometimes, the issue is one you can fix yourself. 

Reattach the blade to the shaft if it is loose, or try fixing the fan back to its position if necessary. But if it is not a job you can do yourself, let the professionals assist you. Otherwise, you risk further irreparable damage to the air conditioner or fan.

Air Conditioner Fan Hitting Water – Quick Fix

Some air conditioners are designed to sling water to the outside condenser. The units have a sling ring close to the blade at the rear. When the water in the base pan reaches a certain level, the slinger picks and throws it at the condenser coil to help release heat. It also reduces the water in the drain pan.

However, this process should throw water outside, not inside. And you must never hear the fan hitting water inside the unit. If water spits out of the air conditioner or you hear the fan hitting the water, you may need to adjust the unit so that it slightly tilts to the back, not to the front. You may also need to clean the air conditioner, especially the air filter.

If the drain line becomes clogged with dirt, it restricts the outflow of water from the air conditioner. As a result, the condensate remains in the drain pan, sometimes overflowing. The fan’s position makes it easy to hit the water when the pan is full. So, it is crucial to clean the drain and pan; the problem is likely to stop that way.

Air Conditioner Fan Keeps Running When Turned Off – What to Do

Check the thermostat’s fan setting; you may have set it to On instead of Auto. Setting the fan to On will keep it running all the time, even when the compressor and other moving parts cycle off. Adjust the setting and see if there is a change.

A rise in the internal temperature may also trigger the fan to run all the time. It is a way to try lowering the temperature because it senses that the cooling function is not working as it should. Ensure the compressor runs when you power the air conditioner and the fan blows out cold air.

You may also have to test the wire connections and motor; a malfunction causes the fan to run all the time. You will need the help of a professional to find other possible causes of the fan malfunction.

Typically, the fan should cycle off at the same time as the compressor when the air conditioner is in the Cool operating mode. Most other modes use the same method, but the Fan mode keeps the fan running to circulate air in the room.

Air Conditioner Fan Not Spinning Fast Enough – How to Fix

A few things can cause the fan in an air conditioner to spin too slow:

1. Speed Setting

Setting the fan speed low causes it to spin slowly. A typical air conditioner has different fan speed selections, from high to medium and to low. Check the remote control or control panel for the Fan Speed button; press it and watch it move to different speed settings. If you want the fan to spin fast, select High for the fan speed.

2. Motor Bearings

Check the motor’s bearings for signs of dirt or wear. If the bearings are dirty, the blades will have difficulty turning. The same applies if the bearings are worn. Oil them with gear oil, give it time to soak in, and try the fan again. You have fixed the issue if the fan begins to turn better, corresponding with the speed setting. Otherwise, you may have to replace the motor because you cannot fix the bearings.

3. Dirt

Debris may be stuck in the fan, restricting its movement. Remove the cover of the condensing unit to reveal the fan and clean it. Pull out any piece of debris around the blades, motor, condenser coil, and even the compressor.

Also, check to see if the fan properly sits on the shaft. If the installation is not well done, the fan can move from its position and have difficulty spinning. Remove the fan and reinstall it correctly; it is usually easy. If not, use the services of a professional. Remember that running regular maintenance checks on the air conditioner prevents issues with any part.

4. Frost

The thermostat’s temperature setting must be lower than the outside temperature, especially when the weather is cold. Otherwise, the unit will form frost and stop the fan from spinning freely. Although a malfunctioning fan can cause ice to form, ice can also prevent the fan from working as it should. 

Turn the unit off and allow the frost to melt. After that, ensure you set the thermostat correctly and keep an eye on the fan. It will help you determine whether or not the fault is from the thermostat; if it is not working, it can keep the compressor running and lead to further freezing.

5. Fan Belt

If your air conditioner is one of those that use fan belts, the belt may be stretched or broken. If that is the case, the fan will slowly spin. Inspect the belt if it has one; if it is stretched or damaged, replace it.

6. Run Capacitor

The capacitor is the component that provides the power boost needed by the fan’s motor to keep running. If it begins to malfunction, it may show by the fan’s slow movements even when you select High on the fan speed. 

While some air conditioners use one capacitor for both the fan and compressor, others have more than one.so, you may find the compressor still working when the fan is not. Contact an HVAC technician to check the capacitor and determine if it is causing the problem before fixing it.

Air Conditioner Fan Not Spinning But Hums – Solved

The motor may be bad, or dirt may be stuck in it or the blade. Also, the bearings may be jammed or dirty. It is crucial to inspect the motor, shaft, bearings, and other fan parts. However, the most probable reason the fan is humming or buzzing without spinning is a defective capacitor.

Take a thin stick and push it through the fan grate to the blade. Give the blade a push to see if it takes off spinning. Never use a stick made out of conductive material to prevent injuries. Also, never put your hand inside or near the fan grate while the air conditioner is running.

If the blade starts spinning, the capacitor is likely defective. The push you gave the blade did the capacitor’s job, so you need a new one. But if the blade does not spin, the motor may be bad, or dirt may keep the blade stuck.

Another way to test the capacitor is to inspect it. But it can be a complicated process if you are unsure of what to do. Capacitors store power for a while, even after getting disconnected from power. So, you may want to discharge the capacitor or use professional help.

If you are to do the test yourself, disconnect the air conditioner from electric power and power down the circuit breaker. Remove the cover on the condensing unit to properly inspect the capacitor; it is a small device in the shape of a cylinder usually connected to the fan or compressor with wires and clamped to the housing. 

After discharging the capacitor, check for leaks or signs of bulging. Also, the capacitor may be corroded or rusted, which are clear signs it is damaged. If you see these, replace the capacitor. But if not, test it for continuity using a multimeter and if there is none, replace the capacitor.

How to Lubricate an Air Conditioner Fan

Disconnect the air conditioner from electric power and turn off the circuit breaker. Next, find the fan motor; it is usually inside the condensing unit outside the house. So, remove the unit’s top cover, which may mean unmounting some screws or bolts.

Fan motors usually have oil ports on the bottom parts. If the fan motor in the unit is housed in a cage, turn the cage upside down to locate the ports. If they are not there, check the top part of the motor. When you find them, remove the plugs covering them to enable you to lubricate the motor.

The next step is to connect a nozzle to the can of lubricant and spray it into the ports. Keep doing so until the oil starts leaking out of the ports. Clean the excess oil, put the plugs back into the ports, and turn the fan blade to distribute the oil evenly in the motor. Then, give it a few minutes before turning the unit on to test the fan.

Before choosing a lubricant for your air conditioner fan motor, it is best to remember the brand and AC type you own. The manufacturer and model will determine the type of motor oil you use since manufacturers do not always produce the same motors. In other words, the motor types differ and may not respond to the same kind of motor oil. Contacting the manufacturer may go a long way in helping you find a suitable lubricant.

The lubricant must be resistant to corrosion and rust, and it must also come with a foaming control agent and be resistant to water. Furthermore, the oil must not excessively react to oxidation and must have the capacity to prevent sludge, deposits, and acidity. In addition, choose one that efficiently filters and has no additive exhaustion.

Air Conditioner Fan Turning in the Wrong Direction – What to Do

Contact the installation team for the air conditioner or hire an independent HVAC technician to inspect the fan. Typically, an air conditioner fan, whether a blower or condenser fan, goes in the wrong direction because of a defective start capacitor or a reversal in the start wiring connections for single-phase motors with one speed. 

Other possible causes are a reversal in the motor’s supply leads if it is a three-phase single-speed motor or the fan belt is backward. Sometimes, the belt turns if the unit has more than one blower, and the air from other blowers affects the one in question. The problem is not unique to single-speed motors, but you will need professional help if your two-speed motor has the same problem.

Air Conditioner Fan Not Working After Power Outage – Solution

The breaker that controls the unit may have tripped during the power outage. Check it if the fan does not work after power is restored and reset it if necessary. Sometimes, the outage may cause a voltage spike, blowing one or more fuses. In such a case, replace the damaged fuses. You will need the help of a technician for the job.

Also, the circuit that controls the air conditioner may be overloaded, causing the fan not to work after a power outage. Try unloading the circuit by removing other appliances from it and leaving only the air conditioner. Reconnect the other devices to other power circuits if the fan begins working again.

If none of the above works, turn off the air conditioner and turn it on again. That simple process may trigger the fan motor to start working. If the fan does not begin working, turn the unit off again, wait about thirty minutes, and turn it on, leaving it running for a few minutes before inspecting it.

In addition to the above, check the thermostat. It may be off, which is possible after a power outage. Ensure it has functional batteries, turn it on, and adjust the fan settings. Set the fan to Auto instead of On and set the temperature. However, use professional help if the fan problem persists after taking the steps above.

Does an Air Conditioner Fan Speed Affect Electricity Consumption?

Using only the fan mode of operation in an air conditioner affects electricity consumption, but not as much as other operating modes. The fan consumes considerably less energy because it does not need the compressor, which is the component that draws the most power while in use.

When Should You Run the Fan on Your Air Conditioner?

The fan runs along with other operating modes because it is responsible for blowing the cold or warm air into the room. When setting the mode and temperature, you must set the fan speed; the speed will determine how well the room cools and how fast, even though it does not significantly affect energy consumption. You can select High, Medium, or Low fan speeds. 

The fan mode of operation is insufficient when the day is hot. It is only beneficial at night when the temperature drops or on days with a nip in the air. Also, use the fan when the room is cold enough, and there is no need for further cooling.

Air Conditioner Fan Overheating – Solved

Regularly maintain the fan’s motor by checking for debris and cleaning the blades. Dirt makes running difficult for the motor, and the strain causes the fan to overheat. Also, lubricate the motor as often as possible to prevent friction, which encourages overheating.

If the fan’s motor is smaller than the air conditioner’s capacity, it will run too often as it tries to meet the unit’s demands. This issue usually comes up if there is a need to replace the motor without replacing the entire fan assembly. In addition, an old motor will work extra to keep up with the unit and, in that process, overheats.

It is always best to employ the services of a professional HVAC technician if you notice the fan is overheating or other air conditioner problems. There may be other underlying causes that only a trained eye can detect. Besides, your air conditioner may need servicing, and the technician is in the best position for the job.

Recap

This article is a detailed guide on fixing different issues with an air conditioner fan. Learn how to detect a faulty fan and fix it, when to use the Fan mode of operation, why the fan stops working, why it runs too slowly, and other problems. 

However, while there are many DIY steps in this article to make repairs easy and more affordable, it is usually best to use the services of a professional. That way, you are sure of a permanent fix and proper servicing. 

Therefore, contact the manufacturer to request service, especially if the air conditioner is still under warranty. Alternatively, hire an independent HVAC technician if you have a trusted one for further assistance.

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