Low airflow from AC vents is a frustrating issue, especially when the weather is heating up. So when you notice weak AC airflow, it’s naturally going to be a priority to fix the problem. In this guide, we’ll explain why issues with the blower motor are often the cause of weak airflow, cover other common causes, and go over what to do if you suspect an issue with this component.
Why Weak AC Airflow Could Be a Blower Motor Problem
If your blower motor is beginning to slow down, you’ll notice weaker airflow, and your home will take longer to cool down. Weak air coming from AC vents can be caused by other issues, but this is one of the most common reasons. If the blower motor is in fact the source of the problem, you’ll need to hire someone to perform the necessary AC repairs in Boise.
What Does the AC Blower Motor Do?
To understand how AC blower motor problems affect airflow, we need to look at the function of this important component.
How it works
Your blower motor is a component designed to push cooled air from your air conditioner through HVAC ducts and throughout your home. It’s one of the most important parts of any HVAC system, moving cooled air from the evaporator coils of your air conditioner throughout the ductwork in your home. It’s designed to work in tandem with the air handler and thermostat, making it essential for good air circulation and home comfort.
Where it’s located
Your blower motor is typically found in the indoor unit of your HVAC system (either your air handler or furnace), though locations might vary depending on whether you have a split or packaged AC system.
Common Signs of a Failing Blower Motor
What are the signs of a bad AC blower motor? If you notice the following symptoms, there’s a good chance the blower motor is to blame.
Weak or no air from vents
If your air conditioner isn’t blowing hard (or at all), the blower motor is one of the first parts to check. If your system seems to be running, but rooms stay warm or only cool down partially, it means the air either isn’t being cooled (which may indicate a refrigerant issue) or isn’t being dispersed throughout the home (typically indicating a blower motor or ductwork issue).
Strange noises when the AC turns on
Unusual noises are another sure sign that something is wrong with your air conditioner. A trained HVAC technician (such as the team at Express Plumbing) can identify common AC issues based on the sounds they hear. A hissing noise may indicate a refrigerant leak, and banging sounds could mean a component or belt has come loose. Grinding, rattling, and squealing sounds, on the other hand, often happen because of a worn-out motor.
Blower runs intermittently or not at all
Your blower is the main source of noise when your air conditioner is running normally. So if it sounds like the unit is only running intermittently, cycling on and off frequently, you most likely have an issue with your blower motor. Of course, if the unit won’t run at all, it’s a more serious issue with several potential causes, including an AC blower motor that isn’t working properly.
Overheating or tripped breakers
If the motor draws too much power due to wear or an electrical issue, it can lead to overheating, blown fuses, or a tripped breaker. This can be harder to identify without electrical experience, so we recommend consulting with an HVAC professional.
High energy bills without increased use
If your AC usage hasn’t increased, but your energy bills are, it often means your failing motor is working harder to do its job, reducing energy efficiency and costing you more on your utility bills.
Other Causes of Low Airflow From Vents
Blower motors aren’t the only cause of issues with your central air. Low airflow can also be caused by:
- Dirty or clogged air filters
- Leaky or blocked HVAC ductwork
- Frozen evaporator coils
Because it can be difficult to definitively find the cause of low AC airflow, we recommend contacting a trusted local HVAC company to diagnose your system and advise on whether you need AC repair or replacement.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Low Airflow
The risks of this issue go beyond weak AC vent airflow in the house. Prolonged strain on a failing blower motor can damage other AC components, ballooning repair expenses. It also results in reduced comfort and uneven cooling throughout the home, increased energy costs, and worse indoor air quality. If left unchecked for too long, low airflow can cause total system failure, forcing you to replace the entire HVAC unit.
Fix Blower Motor Problems with Express Plumbing
If you’re ready to say goodbye to inconsistent cooling and weak AC airflow, our team is here to help. We use our skills, experience, and knowledge to quickly diagnose and repair this common AC issue, helping you enjoy the comforts of home sooner. Schedule an HVAC inspection today to address weak airflow at the source!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to keep running the AC if airflow is low?
Running an AC with poor airflow puts excess strain on the components, reducing energy efficiency and shortening the lifespan of your unit while delivering subpar cooling. You should repair your weak airflow issue before using the AC again.
What causes an AC blower motor to stop working?
Blown AC fuses are a common cause for a failed blower motor, but general wear and tear, dirty air filters, and failed capacitors can also cause this component to malfunction.
Can a dirty air filter affect airflow from the vents?
Yes, a dirty air filter affects AC airflow. Clogged filters put strain on the blower motor and allow dust and debris into the system, causing a range of airflow issues that can greatly affect home comfort.
