uneven temperatures in your home

Virtually every modern gas furnace contains a draft inducer motor, but it's a part most homeowners don't know much about. This guide will explain what you should know about your furnace inducer motor to spot problems quickly and better understand your furnace.

What Is a Furnace Draft Inducer Motor?

Sometimes, traces of gas are left behind inside your furnace heat exchanger after it shuts off. A part known as the draft inducer brings fresh air into the heat exchanger to expel waste gas through the exhaust vent. This process ensures that a controlled mixture of gas and air is present in the heat exchanger at the time of combustion.

A precise balance of air and gas in the heat exchanger is vital for your furnace to run safely and efficiently. Excess fuel in the heat exchanger will burn inefficiently and cause soot to build up in your furnace, while insufficient fuel may make ignition impossible.

What Are the Signs of Inducer Motor Problems?

A failing inducer motor can cause several operational issues with your furnace. Often, strange sounds from your furnace are the first symptom of inducer motor problems. A bad motor may emit a characteristic clicking or tapping sound immediately after your furnace starts up. These noises are usually the result of sulfur and creosote buildup on the motor.

Eventually, a faulty draft inducer motor will prevent your furnace from starting up at all. A safety component called the pressure switch confirms that the inducer motor is activated by detecting air pressure changes in the heat exchanger. If the inducer motor fails, the pressure switch keeps your furnace from igniting for your safety.

How Do You Repair a Draft Inducer Motor?

Inducer motors are modular components that HVAC professionals can replace easily when needed. To replace the inducer, your technician will first shut off power to your furnace and remove the access panel. Next, the wiring and pressure tube must be disconnected from the inducer motor.

Finally, the screws securing the inducer motor mounting bracket are removed, and a new motor can be fitted in place. Your technician will reference your furnace model number to replace the faulty draft inducer motor with an identical part.

Servicing the draft inducer motor is a heating repair task that you should always leave to a professional. If your furnace is making odd noises or refuses to start, get a professional furnace inspection to rule out problems with the inducer motor.

For more information, contact a company such as Kirkwood Heating and Cooling.