How Can I Test a Furnace Draft Inducer?

Wait until the furnace shuts down following a cycle, and allow the unit to cool completely to the touch to save your fingertips from potential burns. If need be, set your thermostat lower than its current setting to buy yourself some time in between cycles. You can’t shut down power to the unit while checking the inducer – you need an active current to check for proper voltage.

Remove the cover shell from the inducer’s motor; this is located opposite the unit’s main access panel on the unit’s lower backside. Usually this panel just pops off, since it’s held by small clips, but older systems may have the cover screwed on. If so, unscrew the cover to remove it. Hold a voltmeter next to the connection wiring to check for proper voltage; usually this is around 120 volts, but consult the system’s manual for the exact charge. If it’s less than the advised amount, check the wire connections to ensure they’re properly seated on the terminals. If that’s not the case, unfortunately, chances are the motor on the inducer is expired and needs to be replaced.

Contact a licensed repairperson that deal with your brand of furnace for servicing. More than likely they’ll be able to ascertain the exact root of the problem, which, if you followed the above steps, you know is a spent motor. Order a replacement motor from them or a dealer (generally speaking, they’re a little under $200 for most brands) and have the repairperson replace it if you’re not comfortable with working with electronics.