Radiant Heater Fan Blower Replacement: Step by Step

Introduction

If a Detroit Radiant Products low intensity radiant tube heater has a call for heat but its fan blower does not turn on, the blower may need attention. A grinding noise or a blower wheel that does not spin freely for multiple revolutions is another sign of a failed blower. Confirm that replacement is needed before removing the part.

Safety first: Gas-fired equipment should only be serviced by qualified personnel following the manufacturer’s instructions and local codes. Disconnect the heater from power before opening it, and leave it disconnected until the heater is back together.

Remove the existing fan blower

1. Disconnect power and remove the top cover. Loosen the two thumb screws holding the cover in place, then lift it off.
2. Open the service access panel. Remove the six 1/4-inch screws securing the panel.
3. Disconnect the blower wiring. Inside the compartment, remove the two wire nuts connecting the blower wires.
4. Unbolt the blower. Use an impact driver with a 3/8-inch driver to remove the four bolts holding the blower in place, then take the blower out.

 

Check the removed blower

With the blower removed, check how its wheel turns. The failed blower in this example makes a grinding noise and does not spin freely for multiple revolutions. Those physical signs help confirm the fault before the replacement goes in.

 

Install the replacement blower

Position the new fan blower in the heater and secure it with the four mounting bolts. Once it is in place, reconnect the two wires using the wire nuts.

Reinstall the service access panel and top cover before restoring power.

 

Verify the repair

Connect the heater to power and verify that there is a call for heat. The replacement blower should turn on, and the pressure switch should close. Check both before considering the fan blower replacement complete.

Taking the time to confirm the fault, secure the new blower, and check its operation after reassembly makes the repair more than a simple parts swap.

 

Need Help Replacing a Radiant Heater Fan Blower?

If your radiant tube heater’s fan blower isn’t turning on, is making a grinding noise, or isn’t spinning freely, Great Lakes Radiant can help you find the correct replacement blower and parts.

We provide radiant heating equipment, replacement parts, and technical support for contractors and heating professionals.

📞 (888) 501-0252
📧 sales@glradiant.com
🌐 www.glradiant.com