How to Keep Your Air Blower Running Efficiently This Summer
As the Australian summer approaches, ensuring your air blower is in top condition is essential. Whether you’re cooling a small space or running a large industrial unit, a well-maintained blower motor will save energy, extend its life, and keep your surroundings comfortable.
So, how can you make sure your blower is operating at its peak during the hottest months?
Our experts at BCB Sales & Service break it down step by step.
Why Regular Maintenance on Your Air Blower Matters
Think of your air blower like any other machine you rely on daily—it needs attention to perform at its best. Over time, dust, debris, and wear can slow it down or, even worse, cause unexpected breakdowns.
To avoid these issues, it's smart to check and maintain your blower regularly. Not only will this keep your environment cooler, but it can also save you from high energy bills and repair costs.
1. Clean or Replace Air Filters
One of the easiest ways to improve the efficiency of your fans and blowers is to clean or swap out the air filters. Filters tend to collect dust, especially during the dry, hot summer months, making it harder for your air blower to work effectively.
- How to do it: If your unit has washable filters, rinse them in soapy water, let them dry completely, and reinstall them. If they’re disposable, follow the manufacturer’s guidance for replacement.
- When to check: During the summer, it’s a good idea to check your filters monthly. If you notice a drop in airflow, that's a sign they may need attention.
Dirty filters can reduce your blower’s efficiency by up to 15%. Keeping them clean can significantly lower your energy consumption.
2. Check the Blower’s Components
Like any other machine, your blower motor and fan have moving parts that can loosen or wear out. Regularly inspecting them will help you spot potential problems before they become serious.
- Belts and blades: If your blower uses a belt, ensure it is properly tensioned. Belts that are too loose or too tight can affect performance. Also, inspect the fan blades for any signs of wear or dirt buildup.
- What to do: Clean the blades and adjust the belt as needed. If you hear any unusual noises, it might be time to replace some parts.
Tightening a loose belt or cleaning the fan blades can prevent bigger problems down the road.
3. Lubricate Moving Parts
Your blower motor has several moving parts that must be well-lubricated to work smoothly. Without proper lubrication, friction can build up, causing the motor to overheat and wear out faster.
- What to lubricate: If your blower has lubrication points, use the recommended oil to keep the bearings and other parts moving freely.
- When to do it: Lubricating the motor before summer begins and during heavy use will keep everything running smoothly.
4. Clean the Coils
If your blower is part of an air conditioning fan or air cooler fan system, its coils are critical for cooling efficiency. Dirty coils can trap heat, making your unit work harder and less efficiently.
- How to clean: Use a soft brush or vacuum to remove dirt and dust from the coils. If they’re very dirty, consider using a commercial coil cleaner.
- When to clean: Cleaning the coils at least once a year, especially before summer hits, will help keep your small or industrial air blower running efficiently.
5. Monitor Airflow and Listen for Noises
Your air blower should move air smoothly and quietly. However, if you notice a sudden change in airflow or hear any odd noises, there might be an issue. A drop in airflow could mean a blockage or a problem with the motor, while strange noises might signal a mechanical issue.
- What to look for: Check the fan blades, motor, and filters. Clean or replace any components that seem worn or damaged.
- Why it matters: Monitoring your blower’s performance can help you catch small problems before they turn into expensive repairs.
6. Inspect Electrical Connections
Electrical problems can be hazardous and are often the cause of blower malfunctions. Regularly checking the power cords, switches, and wiring can prevent more serious issues.
- What to check: Look for frayed wires, loose connections, or burnt spots on plugs. If anything looks worn or damaged, it’s best to replace it or call a professional.
- When to inspect: Conduct a thorough inspection before the summer season starts. Electrical problems can be dangerous, so don’t ignore them.
If you suspect an electrical issue, always switch off the power and consult a qualified technician.
7. Keep the Blower Area Clean
To ensure optimal performance, keep the area around your blower clear of dust, dirt, and debris. Remove leaves, grass, or other obstructions that block airflow for fans and blowers installed outdoors.
- What to do: Clear any items around the blower and check for buildup of dust or dirt on the exterior.
- How often: A quick clean once a month should be enough, but if your blower is outside, you might need to do this more often.
8. Schedule a Professional Inspection
While there’s a lot you can do yourself, having a professional technician inspect your blower motor or industrial air blower is still a good idea, especially before summer. They can check things you might not be able to, such as refrigerant levels or motor calibration.
Plan to have a professional inspect your blower at least once a year, ideally before the peak summer season.
Stay Cool This Summer with BCB Sales & Service Blowers
Looking for reliable blowers this summer? BCB Sales & Service has a wide range of options, from AFMC TORIN and FASCO models to belt drive and direct drive blowers, perfect for any cooling or ventilation need.
Whether you’re after a small air blower for home use or an industrial air blower for larger spaces, we have in-stock models ready for quick shipping. Explore our full range of blowers available online today and find the ideal solution to beat the heat!