Furnace Motor Diagnostics
Professional furnace motor testing and system analysis across Greater Vancouver. Advanced diagnostic equipment and manufacturer-trained technicians.
Comprehensive Motor Testing
Accurate motor diagnostics prevent unnecessary replacements and identify problems before they cause system failure. Our technicians use professional-grade testing equipment to measure motor performance and electrical characteristics.
Our Diagnostic Process
Check for physical damage, burnt components, loose connections, or corrosion
Measure voltage supply, motor winding resistance, and ground continuity
Compare actual current draw to motor nameplate specifications
Verify start and run capacitor microfarad ratings under load
Check bearings, shaft play, motor mounting, and blower wheel condition
Measure static pressure and verify proper CFM delivery
Advanced Diagnostic Equipment
Professional motor diagnostics require specialized tools beyond basic multimeters. Our technicians carry comprehensive testing equipment on every service call.
Electrical Testing
- • Digital multimeters
- • Clamp amp meters
- • Megohm meters
- • Capacitor testers
Airflow Testing
- • Digital manometers
- • Anemometers
- • Pitot tubes
- • Temperature probes
System Analysis
- • Combustion analyzers
- • ECM diagnostic tools
- • Control board testers
- • Infrared thermometers
Common Diagnostic Findings
Failed Start Capacitor
Motor hums but won't start. Capacitor tests below microfarad rating or shows infinite resistance.
Solution: Replace capacitor (motor likely OK)
Weak Run Capacitor
Motor runs but draws high amps and overheats. Capacitor tests 10-20% below rating.
Solution: Replace capacitor (motor likely OK)
Bearing Wear
Excessive noise, vibration, or shaft play. Motor may draw higher amps due to friction.
Solution: Motor replacement required
Open or Shorted Winding
Motor won't run or trips breaker. Winding resistance test shows open circuit or short to ground.
Solution: Motor replacement required
Airflow Restriction
Motor works but draws high amps. Static pressure elevated due to dirty filter or blocked ductwork.
Solution: Clean filters, remove restrictions (motor OK)
Control Board Failure
Motor tests good electrically but won't run. Control board not sending power to motor circuit.
Solution: Repair or replace control board (motor OK)
Repair vs. Replacement Recommendations
After diagnostics, we provide clear recommendations based on test results, motor condition, age, and cost-effectiveness.
Consider Repair When:
- • Motor is less than 5 years old
- • Only capacitor is failed
- • Electrical connections are loose
- • Problem is external to motor
- • Motor tests within spec
- • Repair cost < 30% of replacement
Recommend Replacement When:
- • Motor windings are damaged
- • Bearings are worn or seized
- • Motor is > 10 years old
- • Multiple failures have occurred
- • Amp draw is excessive
- • Physical damage to motor housing
Why Choose Professional Diagnostics
Accurate testing identifies repairable issues
Catch problems before complete failure
Test results and recommendations in writing
Repair when possible, replace when necessary