Fans are an integral component of air conditioning systems. Fans are vital in the cooling and heat release processes. They are needed to efficiently move the conditioned air around your home through the system. Unfortunately, many homeowners often overlook this small and unobtrusive component, failing to recognize the potential repair issues that could cause their system to grind to a halt.
The Mechanics of Air Conditioning Fans:
The number of fans in your air conditioning system will depend on a number of factors including the size of your home and system requirements. Each fan has wiring, a motor, and blades, which means that there is an opportunity for faults to develop. Even the most talented DIY enthusiast should avoid attempting to fix air conditioning fans, as repair issues can be complex, but knowing the signs of common repair issues can help you to deal with any problems quickly.
Motor Problems:
Whether you are talking about the motor powering your power drill or the one in your air conditioning fan, there is always the possibility for problems. Motors can burn out, overheat or suffer from component issues such as damaged ball bearings. Unfortunately, even a seemingly minor motor issue can trigger a malfunction or cause it to stop completely. In many cases, the simplest solution is to replace the motor itself, but this will require the experience and expertise of a trained professional, to determine the best remedy.
Electrical Issues:
The fans inside your air conditioning system contain a complex network of wiring. Unfortunately, electrical wiring can fray, disconnect or corrode even with normal wear and tear. These types of issues can trigger a malfunction and cause the affected fan to break down. Your breakdown may be the result of a loose connection which could be quickly remedied, but if the issue is more complex, it will need more detailed attention. Electrical issues can be difficult to diagnose as the underlying fault will need to be traced to its source before it can be corrected. A trained air conditioning expert will be able to inspect your entire air conditioning system and check for areas which may be vulnerable to electrical issues.
Damaged Fan Blades:
Your fan will have a number of metal fan blades that are needed to distribute the airflow. While these blades are fairly sturdy, they are still vulnerable to damage; they can become loosened with wear or become bent and broken. Damaged fans may seem like a minor issue, but as they are misaligned, they can impact other components in the system causing damage on contact. Damaged fan blades can also be noisy and clunky, which will compromise your comfort when the system is running, particularly at night when the family is trying to relax or sleep. Damaged blades should be addressed and repaired quickly to minimize the risk of contact damage to the system and further damage to the blades. If the blades are merely bent, it may be possible for them to be manipulated back into place, but this requires a delicate touch, alternatively a replacement part may be required.