When your furnace stops working on a freezing winter day in Calgary, it’s not just an inconvenience—it’s an emergency. One of the most overlooked culprits behind a non-starting furnace is the draft inducer motor. This small but critical part sets the ignition process in motion. Without it, your furnace simply won’t start.
If you’re unsure why your heating system has suddenly gone cold, this blog explains how the draft inducer motor works, what signs point to a failure, and why you should act quickly. Whether you need furnace repair in Calgary, a draft inducer motor replacement, or even a 24 hour emergency furnace repair, knowing what to look for will help you stay safe and warm.
What Is a Draft Inducer Motor?
The draft inducer motor is the first component to activate when your furnace receives a signal to heat. Its main job is to clear any leftover exhaust gases from the heat exchanger and draw in fresh air to prepare the system for ignition. By ensuring proper airflow and venting, it prevents harmful gases like carbon monoxide from lingering inside the unit or your home.
If this motor doesn’t work, the furnace won’t ignite as a safety measure. This built-in protection keeps your home safe, but it also means your heat will be off until the motor is repaired or replaced.
Signs Your Draft Inducer Motor Is Failing
Wondering if this is the reason your furnace isn’t starting? Look for these warning signs:
- The furnace hums or clicks but doesn’t ignite
- You smell a faint burnt odour near the unit
- You hear the motor start, then shut off after a few seconds
- You experience frequent short-cycling
- There’s no warm air even though the thermostat is on
These signs usually indicate it’s time for a draft inducer motor replacement. If your furnace is 10–20 years old, this part may be at the end of its life.
Why Do Inducer Motors Fail?
Like most mechanical parts, draft inducer motors wear down over time. Here are the most common reasons they fail:
- Dust and dirt clog the motor or fan wheel
- Electrical issues in the wiring or motor windings
- Bearings become worn or seized
- Overheating from excessive use
Moisture and corrosion buildup
Certain types of furnaces,particularly older models with low efficiency ratings, are more prone to these failures.
When to Call for Emergency Service
If your furnace suddenly stops during a deep freeze, don’t wait. 24 hour emergency furnace repair is available throughout Calgary. Professional HVAC technicians can quickly assess the situation, determine if the inducer motor is the cause, and take immediate steps to restore heat.
Calling for emergency services offers peace of mind and ensures your home doesn’t experience problems like frozen pipes or dangerously cold indoor temperatures.
Draft Inducer Motor vs. Blower Motor
The draft inducer motor and blower motor are both essential to your heating system, but they do very different jobs. The inducer motor handles exhaust and airflow before ignition. The blower motor pushes warm air through your home after the furnace is running.
If your furnace isn’t turning on at all, the inducer is the more likely issue. If the furnace runs but no warm air comes through the vents, the blower motor may be to blame. A technician will check both during a service call.
What to Expect During Draft Inducer Motor Replacement
A professional furnace repair service can usually replace the draft inducer motor in a single visit. Here’s what the process involves:
- Turn off power to the furnace
- Remove the access panel
- Disconnect the faulty inducer motor
- Install a compatible replacement
- Test airflow and safety sensors
- Restart and test the furnace ignition sequence
Depending on your furnace model, the price range for this service can vary. It’s often more affordable than larger furnace repairs, and significantly less costly than a full furnace replacement.
When to Consider Furnace Replacement
If your system is outdated and you’ve had multiple furnace repairs, a full furnace replacement might be the smarter option. Modern high efficiency furnaces offer better energy efficiency, quieter operation, and improved safety features.
Replacing an old system with an efficient furnace can also lower your monthly bills. Some models even integrate with your air conditioner, smart thermostat, or humidifier to create a fully connected hvac system for year-round comfort.
Maintenance Tips to Avoid Motor Issues
Preventative care is the best way to avoid inducer motor failure. Schedule annual maintenance to keep your furnace in top shape. Here’s what a routine furnace maintenance visit usually includes:
- Cleaning the motor and fan
- Checking the air filter
- Inspecting the flame sensor and burner
- Testing pressure switches and sensors
- Measuring airflow and fan speeds
This kind of regular maintenance extends the life of your efficient units, helps maintain high efficiency ratings, and minimizes the chance of breakdowns during Calgary’s harsh winters.
Compatibility With Air Conditioning and HVAC Systems
If you’re upgrading your furnace, it’s a great time to assess your air conditioner too. Matching your furnace air conditioning components ensures better performance from both. A well-designed hvac system that includes a high efficiency furnace and central AC unit is not only more effective—it’s also more energy efficient.
Choosing a Reliable Furnace Repair Company
Not all repair services are created equal. When hiring for furnace repair in Calgary, look for:
- Certified technicians with experience
- Positive reviews and proven customer service
24/7 availability for emergency services - Familiarity with all types of furnaces
Local companies who understand Calgary’s unique winters are best equipped to handle your needs. Whether you need repairs, a full replacement, or ongoing maintenance, having a trusted team on call makes all the difference.
24 Hour Emergency Furnace Repair
A non-igniting furnace might seem like a huge problem, but sometimes, it comes down to one small part: the draft inducer motor. When this motor fails, your furnace can’t start. By recognizing the warning signs and scheduling a timely service call, you can restore your heat quickly and avoid the need for larger repairs.
Whether you need a draft inducer motor replacement, a new furnace installation, or 24 hour emergency furnace repair, acting quickly ensures your heating system stays efficient, safe, and reliable—especially during Calgary’s coldest days.
FAQ: Draft Inducer Motors and Furnace Ignition Issues
What does the draft inducer motor do in a furnace?
The draft inducer motor clears out combustion gases from the previous heating cycle and creates the airflow needed to safely start your furnace. It powers on before the ignition and helps prevent carbon monoxide buildup by ensuring proper venting.
How do I know if my draft inducer motor is bad?
Can I replace a draft inducer motor myself?
Is it worth repairing an old furnace?
Why does my furnace keep turning off after starting?
Short cycling could be caused by a faulty draft inducer motor, limit switch issues, or a dirty flame sensor. It’s a good idea to have an HVAC technician perform a full inspection to pinpoint the cause.
