Why Is My AC Fan Not Working?

In the heat of the summer, your air conditioner is the appliance or system you appreciate most. So, when something goes wrong, such as the AC fan not working, you notice it immediately and call an HVAC service company even faster.

In this blog post, we'll cover some of the main reasons your AC fan might not be working, such as:

Sometimes, a simple thermostat setting or power supply issue is to blame for the AC fan not working.

To rule this out, homeowners can check the following:

• Ensure the thermostat mode is set to "cool."
• Check that the temperature setting is set to lower than the current indoor temperature.
• Make sure the circuit breaker isn't tripped.
• Check that the batteries don't need to be replaced (if the thermostat uses them).

In this scenario, correcting a basic issue here may resolve the problem without further troubleshooting.

A capacitor is responsible for giving the fan motor the jolt of electricity it needs to start spinning. So, if your air conditioner fan isn't spinning, one of the most common reasons is simply a failed capacitor.

Some of the symptoms of a broken capacitor may include:

• Clicking sounds from the outdoor unit
• A humming noise without fan movement
• Blowing warm air
• Unit turning on and off
• AC not turning on
• Burning smell

If you suspect your AC has a capacitor issue, know this isn't a DIY problem. Capacitors should only be replaced by a professional, as there are electrical safety risks.

A properly maintained air conditioner can last between 15 and 20 years. However, certain parts may need to be repaired and replaced throughout its lifespan. For example, AC fan motors can wear out over time from age, heat, and heavy use.

A failed fan motor could be the reason your AC isn't working. Some of the common signs of a failed fan motor are:

• The fan doesn't spin at all despite the correct thermostat settings
• Loud or unusual noises from the outdoor unit
• The circuit breaker trips when the AC starts
• Weak airflow from the AC

If you suspect you're dealing with a failed fan motor, contact a professional for an AC tune-up. Attempting to fix it yourself can pose a risk of electrical shocks or potentially cause permanent damage to the AC.

If you're lucky, your "broken" AC fan is actually just a cleanliness problem. Debris such as leaves, dirt, or sticks can obstruct the fan. Dirt buildup can also add strain to the motor, leading to the AC fan not working efficiently.

The good news is that this is a simple fix. Start by visually inspecting the outdoor unit for blockages when the system is powered off. If you find any debris, clean it off.

To avoid a similar problem in the future, ensure that you maintain regular cleaning around the outdoor unit.

Still have a broken air conditioner and a hot home? It's time to call in the professionals for help. Call Jon Wayne for your AC fan repair if:

• The fan still doesn't spin after checking the thermostat and power
• You suspect a bad capacitor or a failed motor
• The unit is making loud or unusual noises
• You're uncomfortable troubleshooting safely on your own

Jon Wayne's commitment to fast response times means a NATE-certified technician can be at your doorstep soon to restore cooling and prevent damage to other parts of the system.