Why Replacing Your Condenser Fan Motor Is a Smart Move
When your air conditioner isn’t cooling the way it should, or it’s making strange noises, the issue could be coming from a wear out or failing part. A common part which wears out on older AC systems or heat pumps which have a significant number of run time hours is the condenser fan motor. It’s not something most homeowners think about until something goes wrong but trust us—keeping this part in good shape is crucial for your comfort (and your wallet). At REEIS Air Conditioning, we’re all about helping you get the most out of your system, and sometimes that means knowing when it’s time for a replacement.
What Does the Condenser Fan Motor Do?
The condenser fan motor is in the outdoor condensing unit of your air conditioner or heat pump system. The condensing fan motor pull air through the condenser coil and remove heat from the refrigerant. In simple terms: it helps your air conditioner do its job by removing the heat stored in the HVAC refrigerant and exhausting it outside your home.
What are signs its time to consider replacing your condenser fan motor?
Here are a few warning signs to look out for:
· Your AC is running, but the air isn’t cold
· The outdoor fan isn’t spinning
· You hear unusual humming, grinding, or rattling noises
· The system turns on and off more frequently than usual
· Burning smells or overheating from the outdoor unit
· There is oil dripping from your condenser fan motor bearing indicated failure is pending
· When you test the amp draw of the condensing fan motor, the fan is pulling more amps than the manufacturer’s specifications. This typically means the motor is at risk of failure and it is consuming more electricity than it is designed to.
If any of these sounds familiar, don’t wait—call the experts at REEIS Air Conditioning. We’ll diagnose the issue and give you honest, transparent recommendations.
What are the benefits of replacing your air conditioner or heat pump condensing fan motor?
We get it—replacing a part might seem like a hassle or an extra expense you weren’t planning for. But here’s the truth: replacing a worn-out condenser fan motor can save you big in the long run.
✅ Prevent bigger breakdowns – A failed fan motor can lead to compressor damage, which is much more expensive to fix.
✅ Improve energy efficiency – A struggling motor works harder (and uses more energy) to try to cool your home.
✅ Extend the life of your system – Keeping all parts in good working order reduces overall wear and tear.
✅ Enjoy consistent comfort – No more hot spots or surprise breakdowns in the middle of summer.
✅ Reduce the strain on the compressor motor and compressor.
✅ Minimize wear and tear on electrical parts such as start assist kit, contractors and capacitors
What is the risk of not replacing a failing condenser fan motor?
Operating your AC with a failing condenser fan motor risks severe compressor damage due to inadequate heat dissipation. This causes inefficient cooling, skyrocketing energy bills, and potential system shutdown. Continuous operation can lead to complete compressor failure, resulting in expensive repairs or premature replacement of your entire AC unit.
What is the typical life span of a condensing fan motor?
Air conditioning condensing fan motors may last a bit longer than a heat pump condensing fan motor as the heat pump will run during both the air conditioning and heating seasons. A heat pump operates in reverse of the air conditioner during heating system. This can significantly increase the running times of the condensing fan motor. Condensing fan motors can last anywhere from 6 – 10 years. Older fans tend to last longer as they are less efficient had typically have more robust windings.
What is the does a condensing fan motor cost to replace?
There are a variety of sizes and types of condenser fan motors. If you are considering using one of Arizona’s best air conditioning service and repair companies, you can expect to pay between $600 - $1,500 to replace a condensing fan motor. It is always recommended to also replace the capacity with the motor and the contactor if it is pitted.
Why choose Phoenix’s best air conditioning company, REEIS?
At REEIS, we have Nate certified, experienced technicians who evaluate your air conditioning system needs. Our technicians are not commissioned based sales technicians but true HVAC repair technicians. We have upfront pricing with no hidden fees, and we guarantee the quality of our workmanship and offer extended warranties on all part replacements. With any HVAC service or repair, REEIS always recommends making a fact or evidence-based decision on whether to purchase a part or repair. With a condenser fan motor, the technicians should be showing you the condition of the motor or the electrical testing readings to provide evidence of the recommendation.
