How to Install a Furnace Blower Motor
A fireplace blower is a device that helps draw air in and up a chimney. It also pushes smoke and soot up and out of the chimney using a propeller or impeller. This is attached to an electric motor inside the blower’s metal housing, which may be exposed-ducted or recessed-ducted.
If you’re a DIY type of person, or simply want to save on installation fees, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on installing a new blower motor in a fireplace.
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How Important is a Blower Motor to a Fireplace?
Also called a fireplace fan or furnace blower, a fireplace blower motor is used to increase the air circulation in the room. It is responsible for producing an airflow that moves the smoke from the fireplace into the flue.
Blower motors are a crucial part of a fireplace, creating the suction that pulls air from the room into the chimney. It then blows the air back out through the damper to create a natural updraft, creating a fire.
For these reasons, installing a blower motor in a furnace becomes necessary.
Preparing for Installation
Like any undertaking involving machinery, one should get their homework done before hunkering down to tackle a fireplace blower installation project.
Here are some tips, so you’re ready for the task:
Establish the Fireplace Type
When installing a new furnace blower, you must first determine the type of your unit. While several types of fireplaces are ideal for blowers, some models may not be compatible with them.
Most units come with a blower option. So, choosing one is highly recommended to make the installation simpler and easier.
If you have a masonry fireplace, you can install a gas-powered blower. Gas or wood burning types include a standard heater blower motor, though these require the addition of a fan.
Check the manufacturer’s paperwork to determine compatibility. You may also consult a certified chimney and hearth service company.
Replacing an Old Blower
When replacing a blower unit or motor, the direct replacement may not be available. Sometimes, the unit is obsolete, or may be out of stock.
Machinery from the original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, can also be expensive.
In many cases, however, you can find a direct blower replacement that not only fits in size and performance but is much easier on your wallet!
Our FLUE EXHAUST CROSS REFERENCE CATALOG can help you find an affordable replacement for your OEM blower unit.
Choosing a blower that matches the fireplace is important to ensure optimal operating conditions.
While alternatives may exist on the market, using them may lead to compromised performance, obstruct safety features, and in extreme cases, even cause carbon monoxide poisoning.
In case you are replacing the old blower of a furnace motor, follow these steps before installing the new one:
- Disconnect the old device or unplug it if possible.
- Spread some newspapers or rags on the floor to protect your surface from scratches.
- Remove the old motor.
- Take out the old blower kit.
- Unfasten the heat sensor.
- Check the parts of your fireplace, particularly the wiring, with a shop vac to avoid unforeseen situations.
Important Note: A blower motor replacement is different from installing a new one because it involves working with the electrical wiring. Things can go wrong, and the fix can be more expensive, not to mention dangerous. Call a professional technician or electrician unless you have in-depth experience with this type of repair.
Your Fireplace Blower Motor Installation Guide
Mounting a new blower in your fireplace could be a complicated process, but it is easy. Review the steps outlined below to determine whether you are up for the job.
Step 1: Attach a heat sensor to the combustion area.
A magnetic heat sensor should be fastened to the top of the furnace to detect the presence of heat. This will help the blower keep the fireplace at the proper temperature.
Step Two: Install the blower.
- Place the blower at the back of the fireplace. Be sure to set the speed control knob on the front side.
- Connect the power cord to the motor. Secure the wiring to prevent vibrations. You can also connect the blower to the speed control box through the back wall.
- Once the wiring is complete, turn on the power and test the connections. If the blower does not work, consider loosening the screws.
- If the test proves successful, the fireplace blower installation is complete, and you can put the cover plate in position.
Step 3: Connect the new motor to the existing electrical wiring.
- Remove the fireplace cover.
- Prepare the fireplace for electrical wiring by threading the 110/120 VAC service wire through the blower’s opening. Secure it with a blower clamp.
- Locate the control junction box and connect it to the new blower’s power cord.
- Use a wire brush to remove any loose debris.
- Reconnect the blower to the fireplace.
- Adjust the airflow.
- Turn the blower clockwise to regulate its intensity.
Step 4: Seal and lubricate.
A sealant is the oil injected into the heater blower motor to attach it to the firewall heater box. If it is incompatible with your fireplace, you need to apply some grease.
Should you be unsure of the right sealer and lubricant for your furnace, read the fine print on the manufacturer’s user guide or contact a hearth expert.
Step 5: Add optional accessories.
A fireplace isn’t just a decoration in your living and commercial spaces. It’s meant to provide a more relaxing atmosphere during the cold months. Why not take it a step further and maximize the ambiance?
Programmable Timer and Thermostat
These features can save you a lot of time, effort, and money.
By programming the functioning time of your unit, you can expect to enter a warm room exactly when you need it to be. This set-and-forget aspect also ensures the motor doesn’t continue running unnecessarily.
A programmable thermostat must be installed by a professional. It is an ideal addition to furnaces in buildings that are unoccupied for several hours each day but need to maintain a warm or room temperature.
Remote Control
This gadget gives you the power to control the blower of your fireplace from your favorite chair. Many fireplace manufacturers now include built-in controls compatible with a wide range of handheld remotes. If you wish to experience this convenience, it would be wise to check your unit for such features prior to purchase.
Another Note on Blower Motor Replacement
How do you know when your fireplace fan needs to be replaced?
Well, there are telltale signs, such as overheating, funny smells, low airflow, or none at all from the vents, unusual noises when you run the heat, and a jump in your energy bill.
Keep in mind, though, that a furnace blower is meant to last 15-20 years. So, if you’re having yours repaired much earlier than that or too often, then you would need to put a regular maintenance schedule in place.
Why You Should Consider Installing a Fireplace Blower
Having a fireplace in your home or commercial establishment is a wise investment as it increases the property’s value by 6-12%. And installing a blower motor with it not only doubles its efficiency but also lowers your energy bill.
A fireplace fan also widens the safety net of the unit by ensuring that the smoke emanating from the flames moves upward to the exhaust instead of outward into the room housing it.
At Square One, you can shop for the most suitable residential or industrial unit that matches your equipment. In addition to fireplace or furnace blower types, we also offer inducer motor and centrifugal blower. Our complete line features blowers for draft inducer, electric heater, water heater, exhaust, wood fireplace, oil furnace, medical equipment, and food service needs.
Our Recommended Brands
Square One carries the most reliable fireplace blowers available on the market. At the same time, they are reasonably priced and come with a warranty.
Pricing becomes your top consideration if you’re hiring a professional technician to install your furnace blower because of the additional labor cost involved. This number goes higher for a blower motor replacement service which involves removal of the old unit.
Either way, it’s important to purchase reputable brands of blower motors to avoid the headache of repeated future repairs.
Being one of the oldest electric motor brands, Century manufactures an extensive line of blowers, and you’re sure to find one that best fits your furnace. But if the choices get too overwhelming, you can reach out to us for assistance.
This device is one of the easiest to install. Simply unscrew the old one and screw in the new one. Attach an electrical wire to each motor terminal, connect them to an outlet, and you’re all set!
Another trusted brand, Marathon, boasts state-of-the-art technology in manufacturing its products. They also offer a wide selection of blowers that guarantee a long lifespan, superior performance, and excellent service.
A Final Note
We cannot overstate the importance of installing a blower motor in your fireplace or furnace. It spells efficiency for the appliance, safety for the room’s occupants, and an investment with excellent returns.
The installation itself is relatively easy and could even be a fun DIY project for the handyman in you. If you follow the steps we’ve outlined above and use a trustworthy brand of furnace blower, you should be good to go.
But just a reminder: If you’re replacing an old unit with a new one, leave it to the professionals.