AC units are an essential part of many homes and businesses. They keep us comfortable in the summer and help to reduce our indoor humidity. When an AC unit’s motor goes out, it’s important to get it replaced as soon as possible. However, this isn’t a task that a layperson can carry out on their own. Here are the steps involved in replacing an AC motor and why you should leave it to an AC technician.
Wearing Protective Gear While Working on an AC Unit
Working on an AC unit can be a dangerous job. The AC unit’s motor is full of moving parts that can easily slice through the skin. AC technicians must wear protective gear when working on a unit, including gloves, long sleeves, and pants, to protect their skin. They also need to wear safety glasses to protect their eyes and earplugs to protect their ears from the noise. Taking all precautions to keep safe while on the job is crucial.
Using the Right Tools to Replace an AC Unit’s Motor
An AC technician’s tool kit includes many items to replace an AC unit’s motor. They need screwdrivers, wrenches, and other hand tools to loosen and tighten parts. They also need a power drill to make holes for the new motor.
Removing the AC Unit’s Old Motor
One of the most crucial steps during this process is removing the old motor. First, the AC technician must disconnect the power supply to the AC unit. Next, the technician will remove the bolts holding the motor. Once the motor is free, they will disconnect the wires that are attached to it. Finally, they will remove the old motor from the AC unit and dispose of it properly.
Replacing an AC unit can be a complex process, and removing the old motor is a critical step. With careful planning and execution, AC technicians can ensure that the job is done right. They will install the new motor in the same position as the old one and reconnect all the wires. Finally, they will test the new unit to ensure it works properly. At [company name], our AC technicians are highly trained and experienced in replacing AC unit motors.
What Are Some of the Common Signs That a Motor Needs to Be Replaced?
When your AC has a struggling or failed motor, you’ll likely notice several signs that there’s an issue. The following covers some of the most common.
Your AC Unit Is Making Strange Noises
If you notice your AC unit making strange noises, this could be a sign that something is wrong with the motor. Common sounds to listen for include grinding, squealing, or humming noises.
The Fan Isn’t Spinning
One of the most common signs of an issue with your AC motor is a non-operating fan. If you notice that the fan isn’t spinning when you turn on your air conditioning unit, there is likely an issue with either the capacitor or winding resistance, which are responsible for supplying power to start up and run the motor.
Your Energy Bills Have Increased
If your monthly energy bills have increased but you haven’t made any significant changes to how often you use your AC unit, this is another indication that there could be an issue with the motor. When AC motors begin to fail, they usually do not operate as efficiently as they did when they were new. This means that your AC unit will have to work harder and run longer to maintain optimal temperatures in your home, which in turn causes energy bills to increase.
The Unit Is Overheating
Another common symptom of a failing AC motor is overheating. If you feel like your home isn’t cooling off as much as it used to or if airflow feels significantly weaker than before, there’s a chance that overheating has caused damage to your unit’s windings. It will need to be replaced for your unit to function properly again.
Your Unit Is Shutting Off Intermittently
Finally, if your AC unit is shutting off erratically for no apparent reason, this could also indicate that there is an issue with your motor. AC motors are responsible for keeping units running smoothly and steadily without interruption.
Why You Should Rely on the Professionals for AC Motor Replacement
Anyone who has had their AC break knows it can be a real headache, especially at the height of summer when it gets hot and muggy without air conditioning. AC units can also be quite an undertaking to fix on your own. To avoid this stress point, you can rely on the services of professional AC technicians who will use premium-quality materials and components to ensure a long-lasting fix. The technicians at Woodward Heating Air Plumbing can service all types of air conditioning equipment and are also available for emergency repairs in the Salem, Oregon area.
The removal and replacement process of an AC unit can take a few hours, but it’s well worth it to ensure that your air conditioning runs smoothly. In addition, AC technicians will often take the time to explain the problem and repair process to their customers so that they can rest assured knowing that their AC unit is back in working order.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace an AC Motor?
Replacing an AC motor can be relatively affordable, depending on the make and model of your AC unit. You can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 for a new motor. However, some higher-end units may cost closer to $1,000 or more.
The labor costs for replacing an AC motor can also be affordable – sometimes around $500 or less. When budgeting for this repair, it is important to factor in the replacement motor and labor costs. However, the long-term savings from having a properly functioning AC unit can be well worth the initial investment.
How Often Do AC Motors Need to Be Replaced?
There is no definitive answer to this question since it depends on several factors, such as the make and model of your AC unit, how often it is used, and how well it is maintained. However, on average, most AC motors will last anywhere from five to 10 years before needing to be replaced. Therefore, if your AC unit is older than 10 years, it’s likely that you will need to replace the motor sooner rather than later. Conversely, if your AC unit is newer or well-maintained by professionals like [company name], you may go several more years without replacing the motor.
Regular Inspection
No matter how often you use your AC unit, it is important to have it inspected regularly by a qualified technician. Technicians at [company name] will be able to inspect your unit, identify potential issues, and perform necessary repairs or replacements – including replacing your AC motor – promptly and efficiently. As a result, you can be sure that your AC unit will continue to provide cool, comfortable air for years to come.
In addition to AC repairs and maintenance, our team installs quality air conditioners and provides a full range of heating services. You can also count on us for fireplace, gas piping, new construction, and indoor air quality services. Contact us today for more information or to set up an appointment.
