When it comes to maintaining and troubleshooting your HVAC system, one of the critical components to consider is the fan motor. The YORK fan motor plays a crucial role in circulating air throughout your home, ensuring optimal comfort and efficiency. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the step-by-step process of testing a YORK fan motor, providing you with the technical expertise and hands-on approach to diagnose and address any issues.
Checking for Power
The first step in testing a YORK fan motor is to ensure that the furnace or air handler has power. This can be verified by checking the Integrated Furnace Control (IFC) board to confirm that it is receiving power. Use a multimeter to measure the voltage between the neutral and hot terminals on the IFC board. The expected voltage reading should be 115 volts for a furnace or 230 volts for an air handler.
Measuring the Voltage
Next, you’ll need to check the voltage at the motor itself. Using a multimeter, measure the voltage between pins 4 and 5 of the 5-pin plug on the motor. If the motor is installed on a furnace, you should read 115 volts, and if it’s installed on an air handler, you should read 230 volts.
Inspecting the Wiring
If the motor is not running, it’s essential to check the wiring between the IFC board and the motor for any breaks or damage. Pay close attention to the connections and ensure that they are secure and free of corrosion. If the motor is equipped with a choke coil, use a multimeter to check if it is open, as this can also cause the motor to malfunction.
Troubleshooting the Thermostat Wire
If line voltage is present at the motor, but it still doesn’t run, you’ll need to check the low-voltage thermostat wire. Jumper the R (red) and G (green) terminals on the thermostat terminal strip. If the motor starts running, the problem is likely in the low-voltage thermostat wire, and you’ll need to inspect it for any breaks or issues.
Checking the 16-Pin Plug
If the motor still doesn’t run, the next step is to remove the 16-pin plug from the IFC board. Locate pins 12 and 15, and connect 24 volts from the R (red) terminal to pin 12 and pin 15. Then, connect pins 1 and 3 to the common side of the 24-volt transformer. If the motor starts running, the issue may be with the IFC board or the wiring between the board and the motor.
Inspecting the Wiring Harness
If the motor still doesn’t run after the previous steps, unplug the 16-pin wiring harness from the motor. Apply 24 volts to pins 12 and 15 and 24-volt common to pins 1 and 3 at the motor. If the motor starts running, the fault is likely in the harness, and you’ll need to replace it. If the motor still doesn’t run, the motor module itself may need to be replaced.
When testing a YORK fan motor, it’s essential to have a multimeter and alligator jumpers on hand. Additionally, it’s recommended to have supervision from a licensed HVACR technician while performing these tasks to ensure your safety and the proper diagnosis of the issue.
References
- ECM Blower Motor Quick Test – Shearer Supply
https://www.shearersupply.com/ASSETS/DOCUMENTS/CMS/EN/StaticPage_PDF/ICM2%20V.S.%20Motor%20Quick%20Check.pdf - Fast Easy ECM FAN MOTOR Troubleshooting! ECM Blower Motor Testing Methods and Multimeter Use – HVAC Training Video
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHAbkElOceY - HOW TO TEST CONDENSER FAN MOTOR – YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HOdttzgEKYk