Symptoms Of Bad Draft Inducer Motor: Don't Let It Affect Your Hvac System!

What does a bad inducer motor sound like? from truediy.net

When winter strikes, your HVAC system becomes your best friend. It keeps you warm and cozy while the outside world is freezing cold. However, it's not uncommon for the system to fail during the peak season. One of the key components of any HVAC system is the draft inducer motor. Its job is to pull the exhaust gases out of the furnace and vent them outside. When it malfunctions, you're in trouble. In this article, we'll discuss the symptoms of a bad draft inducer motor, and what you can do to avoid a complete system breakdown.

What is a Draft Inducer Motor?

Before diving into the symptoms, let's understand what a draft inducer motor is. As mentioned earlier, it's a small motor that helps remove exhaust gases from your furnace. It's located near the furnace's burner assembly and is responsible for creating a draft that pulls the gases out of your home. The motor is usually powered by electricity and is controlled by the HVAC system's control board.

The Symptoms

Here are the most common symptoms of a bad draft inducer motor:

1. Unusual Noise

A bad draft inducer motor can produce a loud, high-pitched noise that's hard to miss. This noise is usually caused by worn-out bearings or a damaged fan blade. If you hear any unusual noise coming from your HVAC system, it's time to call a technician.

2. Slow Start

If your furnace takes longer than usual to start, a bad draft inducer motor might be the culprit. The motor's job is to create a draft that pulls the gases out of the furnace. If it fails to do so, the system won't start, or it will take longer to start.

3. Poor Draft

If you notice that your furnace's draft is weak or non-existent, it's a clear sign that the draft inducer motor is not working correctly. This can cause dangerous gas buildup in your home, so it's essential to address the issue immediately.

4. System Shutdown

If the draft inducer motor fails entirely, your HVAC system will shut down. This is a safety feature that prevents gas buildup and potential explosions. If your furnace shuts down, it's time to call a technician.

The Solutions

Now that we know the symptoms let's discuss the solutions. There are three ways to deal with a bad draft inducer motor:

1. Repair

If the motor is still salvageable, a technician can repair it. This involves replacing the damaged parts or cleaning the motor's internals. The cost of repair depends on the extent of the damage and the technician's hourly rate. On average, it can cost between $200 to $500.

2. Replacement

If the motor is beyond repair, a replacement is necessary. This involves removing the damaged motor and installing a new one. The cost of a new motor depends on the make and model of your HVAC system. On average, it can cost between $300 to $800.

3. Upgrade

If you're facing frequent motor failures, it might be time to upgrade your HVAC system. Newer systems come with more efficient, durable motors that are less prone to failure. The cost of an upgrade depends on the make and model of your HVAC system. On average, it can cost between $3000 to $6000.

Conclusion

A bad draft inducer motor can cause several issues with your HVAC system. It's essential to keep an eye out for the symptoms and address them immediately. Whether it's a repair, replacement, or upgrade, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Remember, a well-maintained HVAC system is the key to a warm and comfortable home during the winter months.