How much does an AC condenser fan motor replacement cost?

AC fan motor cost

AC condenser fan motor replacement costs $200 to $700 on average if not under warranty or $100 to $300 for labor under warranty. Central air conditioner fan motor prices are $100 to $400 for the part alone, depending on the brand, model, and voltage.

• AC repair services charge $75 to $150 per hour for labor and take 1 to 2 hours to replace an AC fan motor.
• The condenser fan motor may be covered under warranty if the AC unit is less than 10 years old.
• Condenser fan motors typically require replacing instead of repair.
• Replace a faulty condenser fan motor immediately as the compressor may fail, resulting in more costly repairs.

Condenser fan motor replacement cost

Cost data is from research and project costs reported by HomeGuide members.

AC condenser fan motor prices

AC fan motor prices are $100 to $400 on average for the part alone, depending on the model, voltage, and whether the part is branded or generic. Some high-end branded or electronically commutated (ECM) condenser fan motors cost $400 to $700 or more.

HVAC fan motor replacement cost

HVAC fan motor replacement costs $200 to $1,200, depending on the motor type. Air conditioning systems also include a blower motor and a compressor motor.

Air conditioner blower motor cost

AC blower motor replacement costs $300 to $900 on average if not under warranty. The blower motor alone costs $100 to $500, depending on the brand, type, and speed. The blower motor is located inside the furnace or indoor air handler.

AC compressor motor replacement cost

Replacing an AC compressor costs $600 to $1200 when under warranty or $1,300 to $2,500 when not under warranty. The compressor motor is hermetically sealed inside the compressor unit. A bad AC compressor motor typically means the entire compressor must be replaced.

Split AC fan motor prices

Ductless mini-split AC fan motor prices are $270 to $600 with installation or $170 to $300 on average for the part alone. A ductless mini-split condenser fan is located outside and works like other HVAC system condenser fans.

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Cost factors to replace AC condenser fan motor

• Brand vs. generic – Branded condenser fan motors cost more than generic or universal models.
• DIY vs. professional – HVAC maintenance costs $75 to $150 per hour. DIY saves labor costs, but hiring a pro is recommended if the motor is not already identified as the problem. Symptoms of a bad condenser fan motor often mimic problems caused by several other AC components.
• Replacing an AC run capacitor costs $100 to $250 on average. The run capacitor should be replaced when replacing the condenser fan motor.
• Additional AC repairs may be needed at the same time, depending on the cause of the failed motor:
  • AC circuit board replacement costs $150 to $700.
  • Condenser coil replacement costs $900 to $2,300.
• An AC tune-up costs $70 to $200. Routine HVAC service may extend the life of the condenser fan motor. Regularly changing the filter keeps the unit from over-working.

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Frequently asked questions

What is an AC fan motor?

The AC fan motor or condenser fan motor drives the fan that pulls heat from the unit into the outside air, preventing the compressor from overheating. The fan cools the refrigerant that's moving through the condensing coils of the AC unit and helps the unit blow cold air. The condenser fan motor is located in the outdoor condensing unit.

Signs an AC fan motor is not working

Signs the AC fan motor may need replacing include:

• The AC takes longer to cool the home.
• The fan does not spin when the AC is on.
• The fan spins when the AC is off.
• The fan spins very slowly.
• Utility bills increase.
• Loud noises coming from the outside condenser unit:
  • Clanking or rattling sounds indicate loose, faulty, or obstructed components.
  • Screeching or squealing sounds typically indicate failed bearings, which require urgent attention to prevent more significant AC problems.

How to check if an AC condenser fan motor is bad

Follow these steps to test if an AC condenser fan motor is bad:

1. Confirm the thermostat is on.
2. Confirm the circuit breakers are on. If the AC breaker is off, switch it to the middle or neutral position and then back on.
3. Confirm the air filter is clean. A clogged filter blocks airflow and forces the unit to work harder.
4. Check the fan from the top of the outside condenser unit. Turn off the AC if the fan is not spinning.
5. Try moving the fan blades manually with a stick or a screwdriver through the slits in the condenser top.
6. Turn the AC unit on after confirming the blades are unobstructed. Try kickstarting start the fan blades with the screwdriver or stick.
   1. Successfully kickstarting the fan blades typically indicates a failed capacitor.
   2. An unsuccessful kickstart attempt indicates the motor is likely bad.
7. Schedule an HVAC technician to diagnose further if needed. A bad fan motor unresolved leads to more significant and costly AC problems.

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Tips for hiring an AC repair company

Before AC repair technician near you to replace your AC condenser fan motor:

• Confirm whether or not the part is covered by a manufacturer's warranty.
• Get at least three estimates to compare.
• Look for a NATE-certified technician with experience in AC repair.
• Browse their reviews on HomeGuide, Google, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
• Select companies that are insured, bonded, and have been in business for more than five years.
• Ask for references.
• Avoid selecting the lowest quote as quality may suffer.
• Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty in writing before the work begins.
• Never pay in full before the project starts. Use a payment plan instead for work completed.

Questions to ask

• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• What experience do you have with AC fan motor repair?
• Is it better to repair or replace the motor, and why?
• How long will the repair or replacement take?
• How long should a new AC condenser fan motor last?
• Is there a warranty, and if so, what does it include?
• What is and is not included in the estimate?
• What additional costs should I expect?

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