Heat regulation inside the house requires an attic fan installed at your roof level. The fan helps regulate temperature by pushing hot air outside and bringing in the cooler and fresher air. However, the attic fan motor is prone to damage and may require replacement in some cases. Before considering attic fan motor replacement, consider the common problems fixed at home without replacement. This article will discuss the replacement motors for attic fans in detail, including:
- Why is Attic Fan Maintenance Required?
- The Fan Does Not Turn On
- Blades Movement Issues
- Restricted Airflow
- Humming Noise From Attic Fan
- Loud Noise From Attic Fan
- Burning Smell
- How to prevent attic fan damage?
Why is Attic Fan Maintenance Required?
The attic fan requires a timely inspection to ensure that it is in workable condition. This inspection includes checking the blades and belt of the fan and ensuring that there is no dry rot present. Such sot appears when the moisture content is high and the temperature changes extremely. By keeping your fan in a well-maintained condition, the homeowner can save considerable amounts of time and money. Below, we will discuss some common problems with attic fans and how you can fix them without attic fan motor replacement.
The Fan Does Not Turn On
An electrical issue can be the prime cause behind an attic fan that does not turn on. Check your fan for a blown fuse, tripped circuit breaker, or poor connection. Plug in other devices in the same outlet to check if the outlet is receiving an electric supply. However, if both the outlet and the circuit breaker are working, your attic fan thermostat may have an issue. The repair and replacement cost of the thermostat varies based on the model of the fan and the amount of damage sustained by the thermostat.
In many cases, replacing the thermostat is cheaper than repairing it. Finally, your attic fan motor may have an issue stopping the fan from turning on. Replacement motors for attic fans are expensive. Thus, check for the other issues before deciding to replace the attic fan motor.
Blades Movement Issues
If your attic fan motor turns on, but the blades remain still, then the attic fan belt has an issue. Check the belt for any sagging, cracks, or breaks. In case you notice any such issues, replace the belt with a new one. However, it is important to use a similar belt during the replacement. Otherwise, the fan may not work properly.
Restricted Airflow
Sometimes, even with high-speed settings, the fan produces a low airflow. In such cases, the exhaust or intake function of the attic fan is damaged or depleted. Airflow can improve if the debris is removed. Also, place the fan close to the roof and in a high spot for the airflow to improve as well.
Humming Noise From Attic Fan
An attic fan running on high-speed settings may make a humming sound if it has a limited number of blades. One way to fix this issue is by installing more blades in the fan. Otherwise, the fan can be run at lower settings instead of high-speed airflow. Also, if you are already replacing your fan for another issue, check the new fan before purchase at high-speed settings to ensure that it does not make the same sound.
Loud Noise From Attic Fan
Sometimes, the attic fan may make shaking and rattling sounds. The main reason for such noise is when the fan isn’t receiving enough air to throw forward. You may open your attic or a window nearby to improve the airflow. Also, the window must be at least at a distance of 30 feet from the attic fan.
Burning Smell
The exhaust of the fan projects a burning smell. Suppose the attic fan motor has an issue before considering replacement motors for the attic fan, grease the gears connected to the blade shaft. Also, check your attic fan’s belt to ensure it is in the right position. If these measures do not correct your fan’s burning smell, replace the attic fan motor.
How to Prevent Attic Fan Damage?
To maintain your attic fan, you must perform a few basic maintenance routines regularly. First, it is important to clean your fan shutters every few weeks. These shutters can retain a lot of dust, dirt, and debris, which may enter your fan motor if accumulated. Similarly, wash your fan blades to remove dirt and dust. Finally, lubricate the oil ports of the fan with a recommended lubricant every few weeks to avoid friction and collision between moving parts. Checking the belt regularly helps to avoid belt damage as well.
Conclusion
It is common for your attic fan motor to face different problems. However, replacing the motor can be very expensive. Try getting a home warranty that covers your attic fan repair and replacement requirements. Let us know in the comments section if this idea worked well for you.
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