Reusing a central AC blower motor to create a powerful and efficient shop fan is an excellent way to repurpose an old appliance and save money. Below are the steps to convert a central AC blower into a shop fan:
1. Gather Materials and Tools:
- Central AC blower motor
- Power cord (with at least a 16 AWG wire)
- Inline switch (optional for added control)
- Wire connectors or electrical tape
- 3/4-inch plywood (for the base and fan mount)
- Wood screws
- Fan blade (compatible with the blower motor's shaft size)
- Bolts and nuts (for securing the fan blade)
- Safety glasses
- Screwdriver
- Drill
- Wire strippers
- Tape measure
- Pliers
2. Prepare the Blower Motor:
- Disconnect the power supply to the central AC unit.
- Carefully remove the blower motor from the AC unit.
- Inspect the motor for any damage or wear. If it's in good condition, you can proceed.
3. Make the Fan Base:
- Cut a piece of plywood to a suitable size for the fan base.
- Attach the blower motor to the plywood base using wood screws. Make sure the motor is stable and secure.
4. Install the Inline Switch (optional):
- If you want to add a switch for controlling the fan, this is the time to do it.
- Connect the power cord to the inline switch. Then, connect the switch to the blower motor.
- Secure the switch to the base using wood screws.
5. Attach the Fan Blade:
- Select a fan blade that is compatible with the blower motor's shaft size.
- Position the fan blade on the motor shaft and secure it with the provided bolts and nuts.
- Make sure the fan blade is properly balanced and spins freely.
6. Test the Fan:
- Connect the power cord to a power outlet and turn on the fan.
- Check that the fan spins smoothly and there are no strange noises or vibrations.
7. Secure the Fan:
- Once you are satisfied with the fan's performance, secure it to the base using additional wood screws through the mounting holes.
8. Finish the Project:
- You can add a protective grill to the fan for safety.
- Optionally, you can paint the fan to match your workshop décor.
Your converted shop fan is now ready to use. It can provide powerful airflow for ventilation, drying, or cooling your workspace. Be sure to follow all safety precautions when working with electrical components and always be mindful of your surroundings.
