Removing the blower wheel from an LG mini split can be a delicate task, but with the right approach and tools, it can be accomplished efficiently. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process, providing advanced tips and technical details to ensure a successful and hassle-free experience.
Preparing for the Blower Wheel Removal
Before you begin, ensure that you have the necessary tools on hand, including a long screwdriver, a skinny screwdriver, and a set of pliers. Additionally, it’s crucial to turn off the power to the mini split unit and allow it to cool down completely to avoid any potential safety hazards.
Accessing the Blower Wheel
Image source: LG Ac By Dinkun Chen
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Remove the Front Cover: Start by unscrewing the screws located at the bottom of the unit to detach the front cover. This will provide you with direct access to the internal components of the mini split.
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Lower the Drain Pan: The drain pan is not physically attached to the unit; instead, it is held in place by tabs on the bottom, left, and right sides. Carefully lower the drain pan to gain better access to the blower wheel and its surrounding parts.
Loosening the Set Screw
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Locate the Set Screw: The set screw that holds the blower wheel onto the blower motor is located on the far right side of the blower wheel. This set screw does not have a dedicated spot or a commonly referred to “flat spot” on the blower motor, which can make it challenging to identify.
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Loosen the Set Screw: Using a long screwdriver, preferably one that can fit through the gap in the blower wheel, apply pressure and spin the set screw until you find an opening where you can insert your screwdriver. If the set screw is particularly tight, a skinny screwdriver may be necessary to fit between the fins and apply enough pressure to loosen it.
Removing the Blower Wheel
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Remove the Evaporator Coil Screws: Locate the three screws on the left side of the evaporator coil and remove them. This will allow you to lift the coil out towards you, providing direct access to the blower wheel.
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Extract the Blower Wheel: Carefully grab the blower wheel and pull it out, taking care not to lose the bearing located on the left side of the wheel.
Cleaning and Reassembly
When cleaning the blower wheel, it’s essential to avoid using harsh chemicals and instead stick to water-based cleaning methods. This will help preserve the integrity of the wheel and its components.
To reassemble the mini split, simply reverse the steps you took to remove the blower wheel. Ensure that all screws are tightened securely, and the set screw is properly aligned and secured.
Advanced Tips
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Finding the Set Screw: The set screw’s lack of a dedicated spot or “flat spot” on the blower motor can be an advantage when reassembling the unit, as you don’t have to worry about aligning it in a specific position.
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Utilizing Tools: Using a long screwdriver that can fit through the gap in the blower wheel is crucial for accessing and loosening the set screw. A skinny screwdriver may also be necessary to apply enough pressure between the fins to loosen the set screw effectively.
By following this comprehensive guide and applying the advanced tips, you can successfully remove the blower wheel from your LG mini split with confidence and ease. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult the manufacturer’s instructions if you encounter any uncertainties during the process.
References
- LG fan coil condensate drain and blower wheel cleaning – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oEvxD7Tcxg
- How to replace the blower fan wheel in the a ductless mini split heat pump – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0i__3f73qrA
- Advice for removing mini split blower wheel – Reddit https://www.reddit.com/r/hvacadvice/comments/145oq21/advice_for_removing_mini_split_blower_wheel/
- Tech Tips: How to Remove the Blower Wheel (L) – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11jtzT2UFfg
- How we remove the blower wheel and fan on the indoor unit of a mini-splt – YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CkSVQs5gePc