11
6.0 Troubleshooting
Potential problems and causes listed are in no order of importance or priority. The causes are only
a list of the most common items to check to correct a problem. If you find the cause of a problem,
DO NOT assume it is the only cause of that problem. Different problems can have the same cause.
Problem
Cause
Odors and Smells
1. Chemical media is spent.
2. Missing or damaged filters.
3. Incorrect media installed.
Airflow (CFM) Too Low
1. Blower wheel turning in wrong direction.
2. Actual system static pressure is higher than expected.
3. Motor speed (RPM) too low.
4. Dampers or valves not adjusted properly.
5. Leaks or obstructions in duct work.
6. Filters dirty.
7. Inlet and/or discharge guards are clogged.
8. Duct elbow too close to blower discharge.
9. Improperly designed duct work.
10. Condensation of moisture blinding the particulate and/or
chemical media.
11. Presence of moisture in the filters combined with freezing
temperatures can cause the filters to become impassible.
Airflow (CFM) Too High
1. Actual system static pressure is lower than expected.
2. Motor speed (RPM) too high.
3. Filters not in place.
4. Dampers or valves not adjusted properly.
Excessive Vibration
1. Loose mounting bolts, wheel set screws, taper-lock hubs.
2. Worn or corroded blower wheel.
3. Accumulation of foreign material on blower wheel.
4. Bent motor shaft.
5. Worn motor bearings.
6. Motor out of balance.
7. Inadequate structural support.
8. Support structure not sufficiently cross braced.
9. Weak or resonant foundation.
10. Foundation not flat and level.
Motor Overheating
NOTE: A normal motor will operate at 174ºF.
1. Actual system static pressure is lower than expected.
2. Voltage supplied to motor is too high or too low.
3. Motor speed (RPM) too high or defective motor.
4. Air density higher than expected.
5. Motor wired correctly or loose wiring connections.
Excessive Noise
1. Wheel rubbing inside of housing.
2. Worn or corroded blower wheel.
3. Accumulation of foreign material on blower wheel.
4. Loose mounting bolts, wheel set screws, or taper-lock hubs.
5. Bent motor shaft.
6. Worn motor bearings.
7. Motor out of balance.
8. Motor bearings need lubrication.
9. System resonance or pulsation.
Fan Doesn’t Operate
1. Motor wired incorrectly or loose wiring connections.
2. Incorrect voltage supply.
3. Defective fuses or circuit breakers.
4. Power turned off elsewhere.
5. Defective motor.
