Preventive Maintenance on a Return Fan

Blades

• First, examine the fan blades. If they show any signs of warping or damage, replace them now before the problem becomes worse. Blades may be covered in dust that impedes performance and scatters dust into your ductwork. Clean the fan blades with a soft towel. If your fan has been making noise, you may also want to see if it needs to be realigned or tightened.

Belts

• Fan belts are the primary conveyer of energy from the motor to the return fan. They are also one of the fan components that can become damaged or worn down more easily than the others because of constant movement. Check the fan belt for any sign of grooving or grime that would indicate wear, and make sure it has the proper tension. If the fan belt looks old, replace the component to ensure better motor operation.

Leaks

• Both air leaks and water can cause problems for the return fan on your system. Air leaks occur near the duct vent that the fan uses, and can lead to the loss of heat and longer cycles. Sealing these air leaks can help save money. If you notice water near the fan system, it may be leaking in from your drainage system, a sign you may need to remove clogs to decrease condensation and overflow problems.

Corrosion

• Corrosion is caused by condensation, high humidity and similar moisture issues. If your fan blades start to corrode, they will begin to scatter rust into your vents while damaging other parts of the fan. Corrosion is a sign that you need to replace the fan blades or framework and buy a fan that has rust-proof coatings.