Stopping A Squealing Blower And Sealing Leaks In The Ductwork
Stopping A Squealing Blower
The blowers on many older furnaces have a belt that connects the blower cage to the motor. If you hear a squealing sound or if the airflow seems weak, the belt may be loose or worn. To check it turn off the power switch that controls the furnace and open the blower access panel. With a flashlight, inspect the belt. If it’s cracked, frayed or worn shiny, take it off and buy an exact replacement at a heating supplier. You can usually remove and reinstall a belt by pushing it over the lip of the motor pulley while turning the pulley. Also check the belt’s tension. Press down on it in the middle of its span. It should yield about 1/2 inch. Many units have an adjustment bolt on the base of the motor that moves the motor in or out to tighten or loosen the belt tension. On others you loosen the motor mounting bolts and move the motor slightly. Blower noise or weak airflow can also be caused by a motor that’s not tightly bolted in place or by belt pulleys that don’t line up. If the pulleys on the motor and blower don’t align, loosen the set screw on the motor pulley and move the pulley.
Sealing Leaks In The Ductwork
Leaks in ducts can significantly reduce the efficiency of a forced-air system. Examine the joints between the duct sections wherever they are visible especially in attics and basements. To reattach a loose flange, drill small pilot holes and drive in sheet-metal screws. Make sure the seams are sealed with tape. If the tape is worn, remove and replace it. To seal the seams, be sure to use professional-quality duct tape. Wipe the area clean and press the tape smooth to avoid air bubbles. Ductwork that runs through unheated areas should be insulated. If your ducts aren’t insulated, have a heating contractor cover them with batts of fiberglass insulation. Or wrap them yourself with batts specially designed to fit ducts, the batts come with complete instructions for installation.
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