An air conditioning system works using a refrigerant that is condensed and evaporated in repeated cycles. The liquid refrigerant is converted into a gas by the compressor and into a liquid again by the condenser. The refrigerant absorbs heat as it travels through the evaporator coil. Then the fan blows warm indoor air across the coil and pushes cooled air into the duct system from where it is circulated throughout the home.
If you have a split-system air conditioner, your system will have two fans. There is one inside your home that is housed inside the air handler unit or the furnace. This fan blows cold air into your home and pulls return air back into the system where it is cooled by the evaporator coil. The condenser fan pulls air through the condenser to remove heat from your home. The fans play a crucial role in keeping your home cool and comfortable. If your AC fan is not working, it could be due to various reasons, including:
Thermostat settings
One of the most common reasons why your AC fan is not spinning is because of incorrect thermostat settings. The thermostat should be set for cooling and not heating. You should switch it to auto or cooling mode and select the right temperature.
Capacitor Problems
A dead capacitor is another common problem. An air conditioner has several capacitors that perform individual tasks. The Start Capacitor sends energy signals to the motor and the Run Capacitor keeps the motor going. Over time, capacitors can fail and require replacement. However, it is important to note that capacitors may function similarly to batteries, but that’s about it. You cannot replace them as easily as you replace the batteries. Capacitors are connected to the wiring inside your air conditioning system so you cannot just replace the capacitor yourself. They are high-voltage devices that can prove dangerous so the task should be left to the technicians.
Power issues
A power issue can be the reason why your AC fan is not spinning. When the system is overheating, it can cause the circuit breaker to trip. The fan will stop spinning and the AC won’t work. In this case, all you need to do is check the circuit breaker box and turn the switch back on. If the circuit breaker trips again, you should call a repair technician right away.
Broken fan blade
If you hear an unusual noise coming from your air conditioner’s outdoor unit, it could be due to a broken or bent fan blade. To check if a broken fan blade is a problem, turn off the system and look through the wire grill or fan guard. If a blade is broken or cracked, keep the system switched off and call an HVAC technician for repairs.
Fan motor
When the fan motor has overheated, short-circuited, or worn down, it won’t work to deliver the cooled air into your home. This often happens when the air conditioner is overworked or in need of maintenance. Depending on the extent of damage, you may have to replace the motor bearing or the part entirely.
Broken belt
A faulty or broken belt can also cause the AC fan to spin erroneously or not spin at all. The belt wears down over time and needs to be replaced. Removing the broken belt and then looping the new belt in the correct manner needs skill. So, it is better not to attempt it yourself.
Like any other device, your air conditioners also need regular maintenance to keep them working efficiently. Call us now to schedule a repair or maintenance visit by our team of experienced technicians.