The condenser fan motor on my central air unit has seized up (tried like crazy to turn it it, but no go). I'm not sure how old the motor is but I'm guessing it's original, so about 12 years old. I have located a universal motor that is listed as being compatable with my motor (same horse power, voltage, RPM's, etc) for about $100 online. The installation looks fairly simple, looks like I will just need to pull the electrical wires out of the existing motor and connect them to the new motor in the same fashion that I did when replacing our garbage disposal. I have 3 questions: Has anyone used a universal motor to replace an original one before and how well did it do? Is there any reason I wouldn't be able to do this myself? (Yes, I know to make sure and disconnect the power) If I did need a professional to replace the motor for me, would I be better off getting the motor myself and having them install it or allowing them to purchase the motor (maybe they can get a better deal) and have them install it.

electrical hvac air-conditioning fan First off, I vote for a new unit if you can swing it, but $100 is a lot cheaper and you are not likely to offset the cost of a new unit with the savings from a newer, more efficient unit for many years.ratings of hvac systems The condenser fan motor isn't that hard to change, you just need basic hand tools and a gear puller. removal of air conditioning unitsIt would also be a good time to replace the fan start capacitor as well.portable ac unit commercial Not the $100 option, but you may want to consider replacing the entire blower unit rather than the fan itself. Newer units will be more efficient, offer features like a variable speed motor, and come with a warranty. But if you go that route, you will likely want a professional to come in for the install.

Regardless, always get the price for the parts from the professionals separate from labor. There's a good chance they are marking up the prices and even going over to the local HI store will get you a better deal (for big stuff, online is usually the cheapest).Browse other questions tagged electrical hvac air-conditioning fan or ask your own question.The fan control module is part of the AC control system. It is used to tell the AC condenser fan when to turn on and in some cases the same unit is used for the radiator fan as well. Though uncommon the AC fan control module can fail over time. This article will cover the most common replacement of the fan control module. The location of the fan control module and the repair procedure will vary by make and model. Consult the owner's manual for specifics on your vehicle. Step 1: Check the fan control module. Before any repairs are made it is important to make sure the fan control module is the culprit. It can have many different symptoms such as the fans not working at all or running to long.

Before the AC control module is replaced it must be diagnosed as the fan control relay or a failed fan are more common causes of these symptoms. Step 2: Locate the fan control module. The fan control module can be located in a variety of places on the vehicle. The most common is on the radiator fan and condenser fan assembly as shown above. Other possible places are along the firewall of the vehicle or even under the dash. Check the owner's manual if you are having trouble locating your particular vehicle's fan control module. Step 3: Unplug the connectors for the fan control module. Before the fan control module is removed the electrical connectors must be removed. There may be multiple connectors depending on how many fans the unit controls. Unplug the connectors and set them close but out of the way. Step 4: Removing the Fan control module. Once the electrical connectors are disconnected we can now unbolt the unit. Typically only a few bolts hold the control module in place on the fan assembly.

Remove these bolts and place them in a safe location. They will be reused in a moment. With the unit removed compare it to the new one and make sure they are identical and have the some connections. Step 5: Installing the new fan control module. Install the new fan control module in place of the one that was removed. Loosely install all of the mounting bolts before tightening anything. Once all bolts are installed tighten them to factory specifications. After all of the bolts are tight we will grab the electrical connectors that were set aside. Now plug the electrical connectors into the new fan control module. Step 1: Check over the installation. With any repairs we will always check our work for any errors before starting the vehicle. Make sure the fan control module in in the proper location and seated fully. Take a look at the electrical connections and ensure they are all tight. Step 2: Checking fan operation. Now we can start the engine and inspect the fans.

Turn the AC on and set it to the coldest setting. The condenser fan should turn on immediately. The radiator fan will take longer to turn on. This fan does not turn on until the engine has warmed up. Wait for the engine to warm up and ensure the radiator fan is working as well. Lastly make sure the AC is blowing cold air and the vehicle is not overheating. When a fan control module fail it can be no fun and lead to the AC not working and the vehicle overheating. Replacing the fan control module can restore proper operation to both these systems and the repair should be performed as soon as symptoms are detected. If any of the instructions are unclear or you do not fully understand contact a professional such as the ones at YourMechanic for a service appointment.Window air conditioners are heavy, so get some help removing it from the window. Repairing the fan in a window air conditioner can be as simple as giving its bearings a generous shot of a penetrating oil-lubricant, or it may require replacing the motor assembly.

The fan motors used in window air conditioners are inexpensive and designed with welded cases and therefore cheaper to replace than to repair. Remove From Window Unplug the unit from the wall outlet and remove the screws holding the side accordion panels and the window unit in place. Air conditioners are heavy, so have a helper hold the unit securely while you remove the mounting screws. This ensures that the unit does not fall out the window. With your helper, slide the unit from the window and set it on the floor where you can work on it comfortably. Remove the screws holding the case in place and slide it off the unit. Be careful when handling the case because the razor-sharp edges of the sheet metal can cut you. Clean and Check Fan Movement Before you begin working on the air conditioner, clean the unit with a shop vacuum. Your household vacuum will also do the job if it has a wand attachment. Make sure that you vacuum out the inside of the fan motor housing by placing the mouth of the wand against the holes in the ends of the motor's case.

Dirt, dust bunnies and pet hair can accumulate inside the motor and keep the motor's rotor from turning freely. Next, check to see if the fan blade turns easily by hand. Check to see if the blades have become bent and are rubbing against the fan's shroud. These motors produce very little torque when starting and almost any dirt in the bearings or the slightest contact with the shroud around the blade will keep them from running properly. Check the Motor's Bearings If the fan blades were bent and the shroud around the blade has not come loose, chances are the motor has bad bearings that will need to be replaced. To check the bearings, grasp the blade in your hand and try moving the shaft from side to side. Any appreciable movement confirms bad bearings, and the motor will need to be replaced. If the blades were not bent but do not turn freely, give the bearings a generous shot of penetrating oil. If that frees up the shaft and the blade turns freely, you have probably saved yourself the cost of replacing the motor.