FAN BLADES

# Fan Blades - Condenser & Blower Fan Blades for HVAC Systems

Shop replacement fan blades for air conditioning condensers, heat pumps, and HVAC equipment. We stock aluminum and plastic fan blades in all sizes, blade counts, and configurations from all major brands at our Westland, Michigan warehouse.

## Why Buy Fan Blades From Technical Hot & Cold?

**Complete Blade Selection**
From 16" to 28" diameters, 2-blade to 6-blade configurations, we stock the fan blades HVAC professionals need.

**Quality Materials**
Aluminum and high-impact plastic blades from top manufacturers. Balanced for quiet, efficient operation.

**Same-Day Shipping**
Fan blades in stock ship today when ordered before 3PM EST from our Westland warehouse.

**Expert Blade Matching**
Fan blades must match motor shaft and airflow requirements. Our team helps ensure proper fit.

## What is a Fan Blade?

An HVAC fan blade (also called propeller or fan prop) is a rotating component that:
- Moves air across condenser coils (outdoor units)
- Circulates air in air handlers (some applications)
- Creates airflow for heat transfer
- Mounts on condenser fan motor shaft
- Critical for proper cooling capacity

**Located:** 
- Condenser fan blades: Outdoor unit, top of condenser
- Blower fan blades: Some older air handlers

**Function:** Air movement for heat transfer

## Types of Fan Blades

### Aluminum Condenser Fan Blades
Most common for residential outdoor units.

**Features:**
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Corrosion-resistant
- Durable and long-lasting
- Excellent balance
- Weather-resistant

**Advantages:**
- Won't warp or crack like plastic
- Resists UV damage
- Better in harsh climates
- Professional-grade quality
- Longer lifespan

**Applications:**
- Residential AC condensers
- Heat pump outdoor units
- Commercial cooling equipment
- Coastal areas (salt air)

**Common Sizes:**
- 18" diameter (1.5-2 ton units)
- 20" diameter (2-3 ton units)
- 22" diameter (3-4 ton units)
- 24" diameter (4-5 ton units)

### Plastic Fan Blades
Economical option for residential use.

**Features:**
- High-impact plastic (ABS)
- Lightweight
- Injection molded
- Lower cost than aluminum
- UV-resistant coating

**Advantages:**
- Economical replacement
- Quieter operation (some claim)
- Won't corrode
- Adequate for most climates

**Disadvantages:**
- Can warp in extreme heat
- UV degradation over time
- May crack if impacted
- Shorter lifespan than aluminum

**Applications:**
- Standard residential AC
- Mild climates
- Budget replacements
- New equipment (OEM)

### Heavy-Duty Aluminum Blades
Commercial and industrial applications.

**Features:**
- Thicker aluminum
- Reinforced construction
- Higher RPM rated
- Precision balanced
- Industrial-grade

**Applications:**
- Commercial HVAC
- Large tonnage units
- Industrial cooling
- High-static applications
- Rooftop units

### Reversible Fan Blades
Can run clockwise or counter-clockwise.

**Features:**
- Symmetrical blade design
- Angled for either direction
- Versatile installation
- Mark indicates optimal direction

**Applications:**
- When rotation uncertain
- Universal replacements
- Custom installations

## Fan Blade Specifications

### Critical Measurements:

1. **Diameter**
   - Measure blade tip to blade tip
   - 16" to 28" typical residential
   - Must fit condenser housing
   - Allow proper clearance

2. **Number of Blades**
   - 2-blade (older units, uncommon)
   - 3-blade (most common residential)
   - 4-blade (larger units, quieter)
   - 5-blade (commercial, very quiet)
   - 6-blade (high airflow, commercial)

3. **Pitch (Angle)**
   - Blade angle relative to horizontal
   - 18°, 20°, 22°, 24°, 26° common
   - Affects airflow (CFM)
   - Higher pitch = more air but more load

4. **Bore Size (Hub)**
   - Center hole diameter
   - 1/2" most common residential
   - 5/8" larger units
   - Must match motor shaft

5. **Hub Length**
   - How far hub extends
   - Must clear motor housing
   - Typically 1" to 2"

6. **Rotation**
   - Clockwise (CW) - most common
   - Counter-clockwise (CCW)
   - Blade curvature indicates direction

### Additional Specifications:

7. **Material Thickness**
   - Aluminum: 16-18 gauge typical
   - Plastic: varies by manufacturer

8. **Balance**
   - Factory balanced critical
   - Prevents vibration
   - Quality blades pre-balanced

9. **Set Screw Type**
   - Standard set screw
   - Double set screw
   - Clamp-style

## How to Measure Your Fan Blade

### Step-by-Step Measurement:

1. **Turn Off Power**
   - Breaker and disconnect
   - Verify no voltage
   - Safety first!

2. **Measure Diameter**
   - Blade tip to blade tip
   - Across center
   - Round to nearest inch
   - Example: 20", 22", 24"

3. **Count Blades**
   - Simply count: 3, 4, or 5 blade

4. **Measure Bore**
   - Center hole diameter
   - Use caliper if available
   - 1/2" or 5/8" most common

5. **Determine Pitch**
   - Measure blade angle
   - Or match to old blade marking
   - Usually stamped on blade

6. **Check Rotation**
   - Look at blade curve
   - Leading edge curves away from rotation
   - Mark before removal if unsure

7. **Measure Hub Length**
   - From blade face to hub end
   - Must clear motor housing

### Reading Blade Markings:

**Common Markings:**
- 20-3-22-1/2-CW
  - 20" diameter
  - 3 blades
  - 22° pitch
  - 1/2" bore
  - Clockwise rotation

- 24-4-24-5/8
  - 24" diameter
  - 4 blades
  - 24° pitch
  - 5/8" bore

## Fan Blade Installation

### Safety First:
1. Turn off all power (breaker + disconnect)
2. Verify no voltage with tester
3. Allow motor to cool
4. Wear gloves (sharp edges)

### Removal of Old Blade:

1. **Access Fan Blade**
   - Remove top grille (if present)
   - May need to remove screws
   - Set aside safely

2. **Secure Motor Shaft**
   - Hold motor shaft with wrench
   - Prevent shaft from turning
   - Use flat area of shaft

3. **Loosen Set Screw(s)**
   - Usually hex head (Allen wrench)
   - Turn counter-clockwise
   - May need penetrating oil if rusted
   - Completely loosen, don't remove

4. **Remove Blade**
   - Pull straight off shaft
   - May need gentle persuasion
   - Don't bend blades
   - Watch for washers/spacers

5. **Inspect Motor Shaft**
   - Check for flat spot
   - Clean any rust/corrosion
   - Check shaft not bent
   - Verify shaft diameter

### Installation of New Blade:

1. **Compare New to Old**
   - Match all specifications
   - Same diameter
   - Same blade count
   - Same bore size
   - Same pitch

2. **Prepare Shaft**
   - Clean shaft surface
   - Remove any burrs
   - Locate shaft flat (if present)

3. **Position Blade on Shaft**
   - Slide onto motor shaft
   - Proper depth (match old position)
   - Align set screw with flat
   - Ensure fully seated

4. **Secure Set Screw**
   - Align with shaft flat
   - Hand-tighten first
   - Then wrench-tight (don't overtighten!)
   - If two set screws, tighten both
   - 90° apart if no flats

5. **Check Clearance**
   - Spin blade by hand
   - Check clearance all around
   - Minimum 1/2" to coil guard
   - No rubbing or hitting

6. **Verify Balance**
   - Blade should spin freely
   - No wobble when spun
   - If wobbles, check installation
   - May need different blade

7. **Reinstall Grille**
   - Replace top grille
   - Secure all screws
   - Ensure proper spacing

### Test Operation:

1. **Restore Power**
   - Turn on disconnect
   - Turn on breaker

2. **Call for Cooling**
   - Set thermostat
   - Monitor startup

3. **Observe Operation**
   - Listen for unusual sounds
   - Watch for wobble
   - Feel for vibration
   - Check airflow

4. **Monitor First Hour**
   - Ensure normal operation
   - No overheating
   - Smooth and quiet
   - Proper cooling

## Fan Blade Troubleshooting

### Common Problems:

**Blade Won't Fit on Shaft:**
- Wrong bore size
- Burr on shaft
- Damaged hub
- Verify measurements

**Blade Wobbles:**
- Not seated properly
- Bent blade
- Unbalanced blade
- Loose set screw
- Bent motor shaft

**Excessive Noise:**
- Blade hitting something
- Unbalanced blade
- Loose set screw
- Wrong pitch (overloading motor)
- Damaged blade

**Motor Overheating:**
- Wrong pitch (too aggressive)
- Blade diameter too large
- Blade hitting obstruction
- Motor undersized for blade

**Insufficient Airflow:**
- Wrong pitch (not enough)
- Blade diameter too small
- Wrong rotation direction
- Blade installed backwards

## Pitch Selection

### Understanding Pitch:

**Lower Pitch (18-20°):**
- Less aggressive
- Lower airflow (CFM)
- Less motor load
- Quieter operation
- Use when: Motor underpowered or overheating

**Medium Pitch (22-24°):**
- Standard for most residential
- Good balance of airflow/load
- Most common OEM spec
- Use when: Standard replacement

**Higher Pitch (26-28°):**
- More aggressive
- Higher airflow (CFM)
- More motor load
- Use when: Need more cooling, motor can handle

### Pitch Considerations:

**Increase Pitch When:**
- Need more cooling capacity
- Coils not getting adequate airflow
- Upgrading performance
- Motor can handle increased load

**Decrease Pitch When:**
- Motor overheating
- Excessive current draw
- Too much noise
- Vibration issues

**Match Original When:**
- System operating properly
- Direct replacement
- No performance issues
- Safest choice

## Blade Material Selection

### Aluminum vs Plastic:

**Choose Aluminum When:**
- Coastal/high humidity areas
- Extreme climates (hot or cold)
- Professional-grade installation
- Long-term investment
- Commercial applications
- Maximum durability needed

**Choose Plastic When:**
- Mild climate
- Budget-conscious
- Residential standard replacement
- OEM specified plastic
- Indoor applications

### Environmental Factors:

**Harsh Environments (Choose Aluminum):**
- Salt air (coastal)
- High UV exposure
- Extreme temperatures
- Industrial areas
- Heavy pollution

**Standard Environments (Either Works):**
- Suburban residential
- Mild climate
- Protected installation
- Standard use

## Maintenance & Care

### Regular Inspection:
- Check blade condition annually
- Look for cracks or damage
- Check set screw tightness
- Clean dirt/debris buildup
- Inspect for wear

### Cleaning:
- Power off first
- Wipe with damp cloth
- Remove dirt and debris
- Don't use harsh chemicals
- Don't bend blades

### When to Replace:

**Replace Blade If:**
- Cracked or broken
- Severely corroded
- Bent or warped
- Excessive vibration
- Missing pieces
- Unbalanced beyond repair

**Preventive Replacement:**
- Every 10-15 years
- During motor replacement
- When upgrading system
- If performance declined

## Fan Blade FAQs

**Q: How do I know what size fan blade I need?**
A: Measure tip-to-tip diameter of old blade. Common sizes: 18", 20", 22", 24". Must fit in condenser housing with clearance.

**Q: Can I use a different number of blades?**
A: Best to match original. Different blade count affects airflow and motor load. 3-blade most common, 4-blade typically quieter.

**Q: Aluminum or plastic fan blade?**
A: Aluminum more durable, better for harsh climates. Plastic adequate for most residential, lower cost. Aluminum recommended.

**Q: What is blade pitch?**
A: Angle of blade relative to horizontal. Higher pitch = more air but more motor load. Match original unless adjusting performance.

**Q: Can I change the pitch?**
A: Not on the blade itself. Change pitch by installing blade with different pitch angle. Affects motor load and airflow.

**Q: Why is my new fan blade noisy?**
A: Check installation: proper clearance, tight set screw, no wobble. May be hitting something or unbalanced.

**Q: Which direction should my fan blade spin?**
A: Usually clockwise when viewed from above. Blade curvature shows direction - leading edge curves away from rotation.

**Q: Can I flip the blade over?**
A: No. Blades are designed for specific rotation direction. Installing backwards reduces efficiency drastically.

**Q: How tight should the set screw be?**
A: Snug and secure but don't strip. If motor shaft has flat, align set screw with flat for best grip.

**Q: Why does my fan blade wobble?**
A: Not seated fully on shaft, bent blade, bent motor shaft, loose set screw, or unbalanced blade. Check installation.

**Q: Can a bent fan blade be straightened?**
A: Plastic blades - no, will crack. Aluminum - possibly, but difficult to re-balance. Replacement safer and recommended.

**Q: What causes fan blades to crack?**
A: Impact damage, UV degradation (plastic), stress from vibration, extreme temperatures, age, or poor quality material.

**Q: How long should a fan blade last?**
A: Aluminum: 15-20+ years. Plastic: 8-15 years. Depends on climate, usage, and quality.

**Q: Do I need to balance a new fan blade?**
A: Quality blades come pre-balanced from factory. If you notice vibration, blade may be defective or installed incorrectly.

**Q: Can I use automotive fan blades?**
A: No. HVAC fan blades are designed for specific RPM, pitch, and motor characteristics. Not interchangeable.

## Sizing Guide by Tonnage

### Residential Air Conditioning:

| AC Tonnage | Typical Blade Size | Blade Count |
|------------|-------------------|-------------|
| 1.5 ton | 16-18" | 3-blade |
| 2 ton | 18-20" | 3-blade |
| 2.5 ton | 20" | 3-blade |
| 3 ton | 20-22" | 3-4 blade |
| 3.5 ton | 22" | 3-4 blade |
| 4 ton | 22-24" | 4-blade |
| 5 ton | 24-26" | 4-blade |

**Note:** Verify with equipment specifications. Sizes vary by manufacturer.

## Popular Fan Blade Brands

**OEM Manufacturers:**
- **Carrier/Bryant** - OEM replacement blades
- **Trane/American Standard** - OEM blades
- **Lennox** - OEM condenser blades
- **Goodman/Amana** - OEM fan blades
- **Rheem/Ruud** - OEM blades

**Aftermarket Manufacturers:**
- **Mars** - Quality replacement blades
- **Packard** - Universal fan blades
- **Fasco** - Condenser fan blades
- **A.O. Smith** - Replacement blades

## Installation Tips

**Best Practices:**
- Always match specifications exactly
- Use correct size Allen wrench (don't strip)
- Mark original position on shaft before removal
- Check motor shaft for damage before installing
- Test spin by hand before powering on
- Monitor first operation cycle
- Keep old blade for reference

**Common Mistakes to Avoid:**
- Wrong diameter (too large won't fit, too small inefficient)
- Wrong bore size (won't fit shaft)
- Wrong rotation direction (severely reduces airflow)
- Over-tightening set screw (can damage shaft or hub)
- Installing without checking clearance (blade hits coil guard)
- Not aligning set screw with shaft flat

## For HVAC Contractors

**Stock Common Sizes:**
- 20" 3-blade aluminum (most common)
- 22" 3-blade aluminum
- 24" 4-blade aluminum
- Various pitches (22°, 24°)
- 1/2" bore standard

**Service Tips:**
- Always inspect motor when replacing blade
- Check capacitor (failed cap = slow motor = looks like bad blade)
- Verify motor rotation direction before installing blade
- Take photo of old blade orientation
- Document blade specifications

**Upsell Opportunities:**
- Upgrade plastic to aluminum
- Replace during motor replacement
- Preventive replacement on aging units
- Upgrade to 4-blade for quieter operation

## Need Help Selecting a Fan Blade?

Our HVAC parts specialists are here to help! Contact us:
- **Phone:** 734-326-3900
- **Email:** parts@technicalhotandcold.com
- **Hours:** Monday - Friday  8 am to 5 pm
- **Location:** Westland, MI - Local pickup available

**Measure your old blade: diameter, blade count, bore size, and pitch. We'll match you with the perfect replacement!**

**Browse our fan blade selection below or contact us for expert assistance!**