Why Is My AC Fan Not Spinning?

27th Dec 2023

Is it still cold where you are? If it is, using your air conditioner might be the last thing on your mind. But on hot summer days, the last thing you want is for your AC to conk out.

One of the most common issues people encounter with their AC unit is a ventilating fan that refuses to spin. When that happens, you’re space is bound to feel humid and uncomfortable.

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Possible Reasons:

What could be causing the AC fan not to work? Below are some possible reasons:

Wrong Thermostat Mode

One of the first things you should do is to check the thermostat settings. A thermostat set to the wrong mode can cause your AC fan not to spin.

Issue With The Power Supply

The next thing you should check is the power supply.  Is the unit receiving power? Take a quick look at the circuit breaker. A tripped breaker can lead your AC fan to malfunction.

Blocked or Dirty Fan Blades

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Dirt, dust, and debris on the fan blades can hinder their movement. If the blades are clogged, gently clean them with a soft brush or vacuum. While cleaning, take note to exercise caution to avoid damaging the blades and other components.

Problematic Capacitor

The capacitor is a small but crucial component of your AC system.  It provides the initial jolt of electricity to start the fan motor. If the capacitor is problematic, the fan won’t receive the necessary kickstart so the fan can start spinning.  

Capacitors can degrade over time so if yours is an old one, you might need to replace it to fix your non-spinning AC fan.

Worn-out Motor

The fan motor is the powerhouse behind the spinning blades of your AC unit. If the motor is no longer functioning, the fan won’t spin.

Like capacitors, fan motors wear out over time and must be replaced. However, you’d need a professional HVAC technician to determine if the motor is what’s causing the problem with your AC fan.

Belt Issues

Does your AC unit have a belt-driven fan? If you have, check the belt for any signs of wear or slack. A damaged, loose, or broken belt can be the reason behind the fan’s inactivity. Make sure to turn off the power before attempting to replace the belt.

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An AC Fan That Lasts Long

An AC unit fan that doesn’t spin is surely a cause for concern. By understanding the possible reasons behind a faulty fan, you can take proactive measures to make your home or office more comfortable.

Looking for quality and reliable AC fans? We can help. Tosunlux provides high-quality AC ventilation fans to ensure customers can enjoy their AC units for a long time. Contact us for a quote or visit our website for more information!

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🔎 Recommended Reading for AC Fan Not Spinning Issues

Motor Protection Failures

Understand how motor protection relays and thermal overloads help prevent failures like non-spinning AC fans.

Testing Thermal Overload Relay

Learn how to test thermal overload relays and reset them if your AC fan stops due to overheating or electrical faults.

How to Tell if a Circuit Breaker is Bad?

A faulty breaker may be the reason behind a non-spinning AC fan. Learn the signs and how to check it.

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