Performing routine furnace cleaning can improve efficiency, extend the life of your equipment, and ensure proper operation. However, many homeowners overlook inspecting and cleaning the blower motor as part of furnace cleaning. Subsequently, this can negatively impact furnace performance.
The Blower Motor
The blower motor inside your furnace circulates heated or cooled air through the ductwork to condition your home. Consequently, it runs continuously while your furnace is operating. Therefore, the blower motor:
- Uses electricity that accounts for about 20% of a furnace’s total energy consumption.
•Distributes air through the ducts at the proper rate to maintain temperature setpoints.
•Determines air distribution and comfort levels throughout your home.
Blower Motor Issues
Over time, dust, dirt and debris accumulate inside the motor housing. Hence, excess dust buildup can:
•Reduce the motor’s efficiency by up to 20%. This wastes energy and increases utility bills.
•Cause the motor to run hotter, shortening its lifespan and leading to premature failure.
•Restrict air movement through the furnace, resulting in uneven temperatures and comfort issues.
•Cause excessive vibration that can damage the motor bearings and electrical connections.
•Trigger the motor’s thermal overload protector and deactivate the furnace.
Inspection and Cleaning
Since the blower motor operates constantly, inspecting and cleaning it regularly is essential. However, regular furnace vacuuming does little to clean the motor itself.
Therefore, during furnace cleaning you should:
- Remove the blower motor cover to inspect the motor assembly for dust and debris buildup.
•Use compressed air to blow out any dust that has accumulated inside the motor housing and around the shaft and bearings.
•Vacuum up any remaining loose dust and wipe the interior motor surfaces with a rag.
•In severe cases, you may need to remove the motor from the furnace to gain better access for thorough cleaning.
•Replace the blower motor cover and lubricate the motor bearings following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
By cleaning the blower motor as part of routine furnace maintenance, you can:
- Improve airflow and efficiency
•Extend the life of the motor
•Enhance comfort levels
•Lower energy costs
In summary, inspecting and cleaning the blower motor should be included as part of regular furnace cleaning. Removing accumulated dust and debris can help optimize furnace performance, reduce utility bills and prolong the life of your equipment.