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What’s Causing My AC Fan to Not Spin?

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When summer in San Antonio brings oppressive heat, you rely on your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable. But what happens when you power up your AC system, only to see the fan won’t spin? This can be frustrating, especially when your indoor temperature starts to rise.

Unfortunately, one of the most common air conditioning problems homeowners in San Antonio face is fan motor failure. This can happen for several reasons, but two of the most frequent reasons are a stuck fan or a bad AC capacitor. At Damiani’s Comfort Design, we’ve helped homeowners across San Antonio since 1985. We can diagnose and fix these problems to restore the cool air that makes summer bearable. Below, discover what’s causing your AC fan not to spin and how to fix it.

Diagnosing the Cause of Your AC Fan Motor Failure

If your air conditioner is running but the fan isn’t spinning, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the system. Homeowners should first check the outdoor unit.

Start by checking the fan blades to see if dirt or debris is blocking them. In many cases, debris can build up in the unit, jamming the fan and stopping it from spinning. If you notice this, turn off the power to your unit before touching anything and then carefully remove the blockages.

If your fan is clear of debris but won’t spin, the problem is likely with the AC capacitor. The capacitor is a small component within your AC system that helps the fan motor start and keep running. A bad capacitor can cause the fan to stop working, creating the humming sound you’re hearing. Typically, this problem can be fixed by replacing the capacitor.

What Causes Your AC Capacitor to Fail?

The AC capacitor is a necessary part of your air conditioning system. It delivers the initial energy to start the fan and compressor and helps regulate the flow of electricity to keep your system running smoothly. Over time, capacitors can lose their ability to hold a charge, which prevents the fan from starting or causes it to malfunction.

Several things can cause capacitor failure, including age, exposure to extreme heat, and electrical surges. In San Antonio, where the summer heat can be relentless, capacitors often wear out faster than in milder climates. Once the capacitor fails, it must be replaced to get your fan spinning again.

hvac technician repairing an ac unit outside of a house

Replacing an AC Capacitor

While it may be tempting to try replacing the AC capacitor yourself, it’s not recommended. Capacitors are high-voltage components, and attempting to handle or replace one without the proper training can be dangerous. If the capacitor isn’t replaced correctly, you risk damaging other parts of your AC system, which could cost you more time and money overall.

That’s why it’s always best to rely on a professional HVAC contractor like our experts at Damiani’s Comfort Design to handle capacitor replacement. Our trained technicians have the experience and tools to safely and effectively replace your AC capacitor. We’ll make sure your system is back up and running quickly.

Air Conditioning Repair & Replacement in San Antonio

Whether your air conditioner fan has stopped spinning from a bad capacitor or any other issue, Damiani’s Comfort Design can help. With years of experience serving the San Antonio area, our team is prompt, professional, and courteous. We’re dedicated to providing the best solutions for your cooling needs to keep you comfortable in the Texas heat.

If your AC system is beyond repair, we also offer replacement services to fit your needs and budget. We’ll help you choose the right American Standard system to keep your home comfortable. When your air conditioner needs expert attention, trust Damiani’s Comfort Design to get the job done right.

Schedule AC repair and replacement in San Antonio with Damiani’s Comfort Design today.

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