Fans are a common part of all air AC systems. Without them, your AC system won’t be able to cool your home. There are two different types of AC system fans, however.
Assuming you have a central AC system, it will likely feature a condenser fan and a blower fan, both of which are essential to its cooling performance.
What is a Condenser Fan?
A condenser fan is a type of fan that, as the name suggests, is found near the condenser. It’s designed to remove heat from the refrigerant inside of the condenser’s hollow passages.
When running your AC system, refrigerant will pick up heat from inside of your home at the evaporator coil. It will then flow to the condenser, which is located outside of your home.
While inside the condenser, the refrigerant will be exposed to moving air produced by the condenser fan. The condenser fan features spinning blades that move air over the condenser, thereby releasing heat from the refrigerant.
What Is a Blower Fan?
Also known as a blower motor, a blower fan is a type of fan that’s found in the air handling unit (AHU) or near the furnace.
The AHU or furnace typically features a blower fan, air filter and an evaporator coil. The blower fan is designed to move conditioned air through the ductwork so that your AC system can effectively cool your home.
All AC systems require a blower fan. When running your AC system, the blower fan will move room-temperature air over the evaporator coil. This process allows refrigerant to pick up heat. At the same time, it produces cool air that’s pushed into the ductwork.
Differences Between Condenser Fans and Blower Fans
Condenser fans and blower fans aren’t the same. Condenser fans are found outdoors where they move air over the condenser coil. In comparison, blower fans are found indoors where they move air over the evaporator coil and into the ductwork.
Blower fans are available in different speeds. Some of them operate at a single speed. But there are viable-speed blower fans that support two or more speeds.
It’s also worth mentioning condenser fans are exclusive to AC systems, whereas blower fans work with both AC systems and furnaces.
Whether you’re running the AC system or furnace, the blower fan will turn on. It moves air over the evaporator coil to cool your home, and it moves air over the furnace to warm your home.
If you are experiencing a problem with your air conditioning or heating call us at 512-336-1431 to schedule an appointment. We’ll be glad to come out and take a look at the issue.
1431-183 A/C & Heating proudly serves Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Leander, Liberty Hill, and North Austin.
