​Blower Fan Motor Vs. Condenser Fan Motor: What’s The Difference?

The central air conditioner has two fan motors: the condenser fan motor and the blower motor. These two components are often mistaken for each other. That's because they both use fans to perform their functions. However, there are distinct differences between them. Here's a guide to understanding the differences between condenser fan motors and blower motors.

What is a condenser fan motor?

The condenser fan motor is a component in the condensing unit of an outdoor HVAC system. It has a major impact on the comfort level in your home. Therefore, it plays an important role in maintaining the refrigeration process of the air conditioner. It helps create cool air by drawing in air from the outside and dissipating heat into the outdoor air.

Without proper maintenance, the condenser fan motor can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. Also, it will experience more wear and tear over time. This results in warmer air, poorer airflow, and a more stuffy indoor environment. A smooth-running condenser fan motor doesn't just make your home more comfortable. It can also help you reduce energy consumption. Plus, it improves your indoor air quality and extends the life of your equipment.

How Condenser Fan Motors Work?

Let's see how the condenser fan motor works. To do this, you need a basic understanding of the operation of an outdoor condensing unit.

Basically, the condenser is the heat exchanger of the HVAC system. It cools and condenses gaseous refrigerant into a liquid state. After the refrigerant becomes liquid, it enters the evaporator through the condenser coil. In the evaporator, it is converted to gas again and the cycle is repeated.

The condenser fan motor is usually located near the top of the condenser. It is protected by guards or grilles to prevent debris and objects from obstructing the movement of its fans.

As the hot air passes through the condenser coil, the motor turns the fan blades and blows outdoor air through the coil. This causes the gaseous refrigerant to turn into a liquid. In the process, it also transfers latent heat from the refrigerant to the surrounding air.

What is a blower motor?

Unlike the condenser fan motor, the blower motor is located indoors. It is the component that blows cold air into different parts of the home through ducts. So it's essentially your air mover.

There are basically two types of fan motors: single speed fan motors and variable speed fan motors. A single-speed motor can only run at one speed. Whereas a variable speed or high speed motor can adjust its speed to produce different levels of airflow.

A well-functioning blower motor provides stronger airflow to improve air circulation in your home. As a result, you'll enjoy a more even temperature and cleaner, healthier air throughout your indoor space. Plus, good airflow helps prevent dust buildup in the vents. And these things will further improve your indoor air quality.

How the blower motor works?

A thermostat works with your HVAC unit to control the temperature in your home. When the actual temperature is higher than your desired temperature, it signals your air conditioner to produce cool air. After generating cool air, your device must circulate it throughout the interior space. This is where the blower motor comes in.

The blower motor spins its fan to blow cool air through the ducts and vents. Actually distribute it to different parts of your home. It ensures that the temperature in your home is the same as the temperature setting on the thermostat. Your blower motor is a powerful device that moves a lot of air.

Single speed blower motors can only run at one speed. So that means it's either running at full capacity or not running at all. Therefore, it is less energy efficient than a variable speed blower motor, which can blow air at lower or higher speeds.