How Long Do HVAC Blower Motors Usually Last?

Repairing and replacing blower motors in furnaces, air conditioners, and heat pumps are tasks many HVAC companies in Dayton, OH, perform regularly. Since you use your heating and cooling system throughout the year to stay comfortable indoors, it’s not unusual for various components to wear down over time. So, how long do HVAC blower motors last?

At A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling, we know the answer to that question depends on several factors. Consult our guide below to learn more about this essential component, its function, and its average lifespan.

What Does a Blower Motor Do?

A blower motor forms an essential part of an HVAC system. It blows conditioned air throughout your house. In the winter, it distributes heated air from the furnace, and in the summer, it distributes cold air. 

Your equipment may include a single-speed motor, which turns on and off periodically to reach the temperature on the thermostat. If not, it may contain a variable-speed unit that adjusts its speed while operating for enhanced temperature control. Regardless of which one your HVAC has, without a functional blower motor, the system won’t distribute air.

The Average Lifespan of Blower Motors in HVAC

How long do HVAC blower motors last? The answer varies depending on component type, maintenance, and other factors. Here is a closer breakdown of the average fan motor lifespans:

• Air Conditioners: 10 to 15 years 
• Furnaces: 10 to 20 years with regular maintenance
• Heat Pumps: 10 to 15 years

Contributing Factors to Fan Motor Efficiency and Longevity

So, why is it difficult to pinpoint how long this equipment lasts? Maintenance remains one of the driving factors in its durability and longevity. When you keep your HVAC system in good condition by scheduling annual inspections, you increase the chance of technicians spotting and repairing problems that could trigger a major malfunction. 

You must also consider wear and tear. The more you run your system, the quicker the fan motor will wear down. 

Another factor is environmental conditions. When this HVAC part stays constantly exposed to excessive humidity and pollutants, it can cause problems with the blower motor’s operations. 

Typical Warning Signs of a Blower Motor in Need of Servicing

After learning the answer to “How long do HVAC blower motors last?” it’s time to learn about the symptoms of a component that’s malfunctioning, outdated, or in need of maintenance. Here are the top warning signs to watch for in your heating and cooling system. 

Burning Odors

Does something smell like it is burning whenever your HVAC unit turns on? The problem could be a failing blower motor.

When the component struggles to reach and maintain the temperature on the thermostat, it experiences excessive wear. As such, it begins overheating, which causes a burning odor. After some time, the system may shut down as a safety precaution because it reaches unreasonably high temperatures.

Lack of Air From the Vents

One of the top blower motor repair or replacement signs is that little to no air comes in from the vents. If you neglect the system’s need for routine maintenance, it may have a layer of grime and dust on its components, preventing it from functioning correctly. Some air might flow from the vents, but not enough to make a noticeable difference in your home’s indoor climate. 

If no air comes from the vent, it might be due to a complete blower motor failure. The fan must work for the HVAC unit to distribute conditioned air. If you encounter this issue, contact a professional technician immediately for an inspection; you might need a blower replacement.

Strange Noises From the HVAC Unit

When your furnace or air conditioning runs, you might hear a gentle hum from the equipment. However, you should not hear loud squeals or squeaks. If you do, the motor may need some professional attention. 

The sound typically stems from friction as moving parts grind against each other. An experienced technician can inspect the system and lubricate its bearings to promote smoother operations. In some cases, replacing small parts is necessary. 

Tips for Maximizing Your Equipment’s Lifespan

So, how long do HVAC blower motors last? The best way to ensure motor durability and optimal performance in your equipment is to maintain it. Scheduling professional HVAC tune-ups and inspections is excellent for keeping blower motors in great condition. Here are other things you can do to maximize the component’s lifespan:

• Change the Air Filter Regularly. Filters trap airborne debris like dust and dirt, so they’ll clog over time. Change them every one to three months to ensure optimal airflow through your furnace and prevent the blower motor from overworking and overheating.
• Don’t Ignore Unusual Noises or Smells. If your system starts making strange noises or producing unusual odors, contact a local HVAC company to inspect your equipment. The longer you wait to seek help, the shorter your equipment’s lifespan will be.
• Maintain Optimal Thermostat Settings. Constantly adjusting the thermostat could put unintentional stress on the fan motor. Set the temperature to an optimal range.
• Avoid Blocked Vents and Registers. Blocked vents restrict airflow through the HVAC system, which can cause the fan motor to work harder to distribute conditioned air.
• Insulate Your Home. Insulating your property minimizes the heat transfer between your indoor spaces and the outdoor environment. Your residence will maintain a consistent temperature, resulting in a lighter workload for your heating and cooling unit. 

Contact One of the Top HVAC Companies in Dayton, OH, to Repair or Replace Your Blower Motor

How long do HVAC blower motors last? We at A1 Mechanical Heating & Cooling know that the average blower motor lifespan is between ten and twenty years.

Professional HVAC maintenance is the best way to keep this vital part running smoothly. As one of the top HVAC companies in Dayton, OH, we offer top-notch HVAC solutions, including blower replacement, HVAC repair, and routine maintenance. 

Our factory-trained technicians strive to deliver world-class services with superior customer support. We partner with the industry’s best suppliers to ensure quality parts replacements. If your system needs repair or maintenance, call our crew at (937) 865-2325 to schedule an appointment.