How to Change Blower Speed on Furnace: A StepbyStep Guide
How to Change Blower Speed on Furnace?
To change the blower speed on a furnace, follow these steps:
1. Determine the desired speed you want for your furnace blower.
2. Create a safe workspace by turning off the power to the furnace.
3. Locate the blower drive motor, which is usually located near the blower assembly.
4. Adjust the pulley on the blower drive motor using the setscrew.
This will change the speed of the blower.
5. After adjusting the pulley, check the alignment of the motor and blower pulley to ensure they are properly aligned.
Regularly checking and cleaning air filters, keeping air registers unblocked, and maintaining a tidy furnace area can help prevent problems and ensure the furnace works efficiently.
Key Points:
- Determine desired speed for furnace blower
- Turn off power to furnace to create a safe workspace
- Locate and adjust the pulley on the blower drive motor using the setscrew
- Check alignment of the motor and blower pulley
- Consider hiring a professional for this task
- Regularly perform maintenance tasks to ensure efficient operation
Did You Know?
1. The first centralized heating systems, similar to modern furnaces, were developed by the ancient Romans, who used a system called “hypocaust” to distribute warm air in their buildings.
2. While modern furnaces typically have multiple blower speed options, early furnaces had only one speed, often referred to as “on/off.” This meant that they would either blow air at full force or not at all.
3. The blower speed on a furnace determines not only the comfort level of the occupants but also affects the heating efficiency of the system. Higher blower speeds can distribute heat more quickly but may use more energy, while lower speeds can be more energy-efficient but take longer to heat a space.
4. The blower speed on a furnace can usually be adjusted by accessing the blower motor or by using the furnace’s control panel. However, it’s crucial to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or hire a professional technician to make any modifications, as improper adjustments can lead to system malfunction or even hazards.
5. Changing the blower speed on a furnace can have a significant impact on indoor air quality. Higher speeds can improve air circulation, reducing the concentration of airborne contaminants, such as dust particles and allergens, while lower speeds can help achieve more balanced humidity levels.
Reasons To Adjust The Blower Speed
Adjusting the blower speed on a furnace can have several benefits:
- Increase warm airflow: If your furnace doesn’t evenly distribute heat throughout your space, increasing the blower speed can help improve the airflow and ensure every corner of the room receives adequate warmth.
- Reduce warm airflow: In situations where certain rooms in your house tend to get too hot, you can adjust the blower speed to decrease airflow in those areas and create a more comfortable environment.
- Quieter operation: Some furnaces can be quite noisy, especially when running at full speed. By adjusting the blower speed, you can reduce the noise level and create a more peaceful living environment.
- Increased efficiency: Adjusting the blower speed can help increase the efficiency of your furnace. By finding the optimal blower speed for your specific heating needs, you can ensure that your furnace uses energy efficiently, saving you money on heating bills.
Steps To Adjust The Blower Speed
Before attempting to adjust the blower speed on your furnace, it is important to determine the desired speed that you want to achieve. This can help guide you through the adjustment process.
To begin, create a safe workspace by turning off the power to your furnace. This will ensure that you can work on the blower motor without any risk of electrical shock. Additionally, it is advised to wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses.
Next, locate the blower drive motor and find the setscrew that is used to adjust the pulley. Loosen the setscrew and adjust the pulley according to the desired speed. Take note of the original position of the pulley in case you need to revert back to the previous setting.
After adjusting the pulley, it is crucial to check the alignment of the motor and the blower pulley. Misalignment can cause unnecessary strain on the motor and lead to mechanical issues in the long run. Make sure that the motor and pulley are properly aligned before turning the power back on.
Hiring A Professional For Furnace Issues
While adjusting the blower speed on your furnace can be done on your own, it is often best to hire a professional to look at your furnace. Professionals have a deep understanding of the inner workings of furnaces and other electrical systems, making them more equipped to diagnose and fix any issues.
By hiring a professional, you can ensure that any problems with your furnace are accurately assessed and effectively resolved. They have the knowledge and experience to quickly identify what is wrong with your furnace and provide the necessary repairs or adjustments.
Additionally, professionals can also perform preventative maintenance tasks to keep your furnace in optimal condition. Getting a yearly tune-up for your furnace is highly recommended to ensure that it works properly. During a tune-up, the technician will inspect the unit and perform maintenance tasks such as:
- Lubricating the blower motor bearings
- Tightening loose ductwork
- Replacing or cleaning air filters
These tasks can greatly extend the lifespan of your furnace and improve its energy efficiency.
Furthermore, professionals are skilled at detecting difficult-to-detect mechanical problems with the unit, such as:
- Coolant leaking from the AC system
- Loose blower belts or wiring harnesses
- Ill-fitting firing burners
- Blocked condensate drains
These issues can be easily overlooked by homeowners, but professionals have the expertise to identify and resolve them.
If you’re worried about your furnace not meeting energy standards, a professional can run a diagnostic test to assess the problem. This test can help determine the energy efficiency of your furnace and identify any potential areas for improvement. To schedule an appointment with a highly skilled technician, it is recommended to contact a reputable HVAC company.
Importance Of Yearly Furnace Tune-Ups
Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal performance of your furnace. Yearly tune-ups are highly recommended to ensure that your furnace operates efficiently and reliably, especially during cold winter months when you depend on it the most.
During a furnace tune-up, a qualified technician will:
- Inspect various components of your furnace
- Perform necessary maintenance tasks
This includes:
- Cleaning or replacing air filters
- Lubricating the blower motor bearings
- Tightening loose ductwork
- Checking the overall condition of the unit
By regularly maintaining your furnace, you can prevent potential problems from escalating into costly repairs. Additionally, a well-maintained furnace operates more efficiently, saving you money on your energy bills. Therefore, it is in your best interest to schedule a yearly tune-up for your furnace with a professional technician.
Maintenance Tips For Optimal Furnace Performance
In addition to yearly tune-ups, there are several maintenance tasks that you can perform to ensure optimal performance of your furnace.
Regularly checking and cleaning air filters is essential for preventing problems. Air filters should be checked at least once a month and replaced when dirty. Blocked or clogged air filters restrict airflow, which can reduce the efficiency of your furnace and even cause damage to the system. By keeping the filters clean, you can improve the airflow and overall performance of your furnace.
It is also important to avoid blocking air registers, as this can disrupt the airflow. Furniture and other items should not be placed on top of air registers, as it can obstruct the warm air distribution. Ensuring that the air registers are clear and unobstructed allows for smooth and efficient airflow.
Keeping the furnace area tidy is another important maintenance tip. This not only prevents potential damage to the furnace but also provides easy access for service technicians whenever needed. Light dusting and vacuuming of the surrounding area can help maintain a clean and safe environment for your furnace.
Finally, it is recommended to clean the flame sensor once a year. The flame sensor is a thin metal rod located in front of the pilot flame. Over time, it can gather dirt and grime, affecting its functionality. Cleaning the flame sensor ensures that it accurately detects the flame, allowing your furnace to operate smoothly.
Benefits Of Professional Diagnostic Tests For Energy Standards
If you are concerned about your furnace not meeting energy standards, a professional can conduct diagnostic tests to assess the problem. These tests analyze the energy efficiency of your furnace and identify any areas for improvement.
By running diagnostic tests, professionals can accurately determine the cause of any energy inefficiency in your furnace. They can assess factors such as fuel consumption, heat output, and overall performance to pinpoint the underlying issues.
With this information, professionals can provide recommendations on how to improve the energy efficiency of your furnace. This may include adjustments or repairs to certain components, upgrading to more energy-efficient models, or implementing specific maintenance practices.
By proactively addressing energy efficiency issues, you can not only reduce your environmental impact but also save money on your energy bills. A professional diagnostic test can help you understand the current state of your furnace’s energy efficiency and guide you towards cost-effective solutions.
In conclusion, adjusting the blower speed on a furnace can significantly impact its efficiency and performance. Whether you want to increase or reduce warm airflow, quiet the furnace, or improve overall energy efficiency, adjusting the blower speed can help achieve these goals. While it is possible to adjust the blower speed on your own, hiring a professional is often recommended for a more accurate assessment and sufficient repairs. Additionally, scheduling yearly tune-ups and performing regular maintenance tasks can ensure optimal furnace performance and prevent potential problems. Taking these steps will not only extend the lifespan of your furnace but also save you money and provide a safer and more comfortable environment in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I increase my blower fan speed?
To increase the blower fan speed, try adjusting the pulley on the blower drive motor. Begin by loosening the setscrew that holds the pulley to the driveshaft, allowing for slight movement. Next, rotate the pulley clockwise on the shaft for one full turn and then secure it by tightening the setscrew. This simple adjustment should help you achieve a higher blower speed and improve the performance of your fan.
What two ways can blower speed be controlled?
There are two primary methods for controlling the blower speed. The first method involves mechanically switching the blower resistor resistance using a rotating lever. This allows the user to manually adjust the speed based on their preference and specific cooling needs. The second method is electronic control, which is typically integrated into the air conditioning system. This allows for automatic regulation and precise adjustment of the blower speed based on factors such as temperature, desired airflow, and other inputs from the system.
What happens if blower speed is too low?
If the blower speed is set too low, it can lead to several issues. Firstly, the reduced airflow can cause the evaporator coil to freeze. This occurs when the coil becomes excessively cold and condenses moisture in the air, forming ice. Consequently, this ice buildup restricts the flow of air even further, reducing the system’s efficiency and potentially causing liquid refrigerant to flood back. This floodback can place excessive strain on the compressor, risking its failure and potentially leading to costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the blower speed is properly set to prevent freezing and maintain the optimal operation of the HVAC system.
What happens if blower speed is too high for furnace?
If the blower speed is set too high for the furnace, several issues may arise. Firstly, increasing the blower speed will cause the temperature of the air leaving the furnace to decrease. As a result, the air discharged at the registers will also be cooler. This can lead to discomfort and inefficiency in heating the space.
Moreover, raising the blower speed increases the static pressure within the system. This higher pressure can result in a reduction in the airflow reaching the registers. As a consequence, certain areas of the house may experience insufficient heating, while others may receive more air than necessary. This imbalance in airflow distribution can lead to uneven temperatures throughout the property.
