AC Fan Not Working? Try These 3 Easy Fixes in 2024

Why Your Air Conditioner Fan Won’t Run

When your air conditioner fan fails in the heat of a southern summer, you know it right away as the inside of your home heats up quickly. Let's take a look at some common reasons your fan might quit:

• Tripped house circuit breaker: The inside blower unit won’t get power if the house circuit breaker trips.
• Faulty fan motor: The fan motor spins the blower wheel that circulates air through the system. When the fan motor fails, the fan won't spin and no air will circulate. Replacing the fan motor typically requires an HVAC repair service call to fix the AC fan.
• Loose or broken wires: Loose or broken wires can prevent the fan motor from getting the electric current needed to spin the blower wheel. The wires going to the fan motor are difficult to access for a homeowner. You’ll usually need to have a service technician fix this type of problem too.
• Failed capacitor: The capacitor jump-starts the fan motor. If it's not working right, the fan might not start or might run slower. A technician can test the capacitor and replace it if necessary.
• Control failure: Most air conditioner units use an electronic control board and relays to control the fan. If the electronic control board or a relay fails, the fan won’t run. Professional AC repair service is often needed to diagnose and repair this type of failure as well.
• Tripped condensate drain float switch: If the condensate drain pipe gets clogged and water backs up into the drain pan below the evaporator, a flow switch trips and the control shuts off the fan in many AC units. You can sometimes fix the AC fan yourself when this failure occurs.

Remember, it's almost always wise to consult a professional HVAC technician to fix the air conditioner fan when you notice that it's not running. They have the professional know-how and skills to accurately diagnose the problem and make necessary repairs or replacements quickly.

Also realize, regular maintenance and timely repairs can prevent future AC system failures and keep your air conditioner unit running smoothly.

Steps to Troubleshoot a Non-Working Air Conditioner Fan

There are several steps you can take to identify and potentially fix the problem when the AC fan quits. Follow these steps to get your air conditioner fan back in action.

1. Check for Power

Make sure your inside unit is getting power. Check the house circuit breaker and reset the breaker if it has tripped. Some inside blower units have a light switch beside the unit. Make sure that light switch is turned on so the unit gets power.

2. Reset the Electronic Control Board

Sometimes, a power surge or glitch through the electric power lines will cause the electronic control board to quit working. Try shutting the system off at the thermostat then shutting off the house circuit breakers for the air conditioner for 5 minutes. Restore power and see if the unit works.

3. Check for a Clog in the Condensate Drain Line

This is the #1 fix for a fan not blowing. Watch this DIY video and follow the instructions to clear the condensate drain line if it’s clogged:

You can be the hero of your home if you pull off this troubleshooting fix when the AC stops working in the summer.

Remember, if you're unsure or uncomfortable doing any of these troubleshooting steps, schedule AC repair service. Air conditioner fan repair can be complicated. A qualified technician will have the tools and expertise to diagnose and fix AC fan issues effectively.

Preventing Air Conditioner Fan Problems

Regular cleaning of AC air vents can help prevent problems with your air conditioner fan. Dust, dirt, and debris can build up on the fan return vent grills going to the inside unit, inhibiting cooling air glow going to the fan motor. To prevent this, clean the return air vents regularly.

Proper airflow and ventilation are also crucial for the best performance of your air conditioner fan. Make sure there's nothing blocking the return airflow around the unit, like furniture or indoor plants. Also, ensure that you replace the AC air filters on time—no exceptions. You may even need to change the air filters more often than called for in the heat of summer when the unit runs more often. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and put unnecessary strain on the fan motor.

While regular cleaning can help prevent issues with your air conditioner fan, it's also important to schedule professional inspections and AC tune-ups. A trained technician can identify and fix any potential problems before they become major issues. They can check the fan motor, lubricate moving parts, and ensure that the electrical connections are secure.

Regular professional maintenance won’t just help prevent breakdowns, your central AC will last longer when it’s well-maintained

By following these AC preventive maintenance tips, you can keep your air conditioner running smoothly and efficiently, ensuring a cool and comfortable home during long, hot summers.