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While our customers are wholesalers, Packard knows that you, the contractor, have a choice. You are often presented with many buying options, and being well-informed about your purchase can help make your job easier and more successful.  Our Tech Tips are also very helpful for our wholesalers as we present product information that can help as contractors have questions.

This is why we have dedicated a section of our site for contractors and wholesalers. In this section, you will find helpful product tips, tools and some clips from our training classes. We’ve also provided a distributor locator so you can find the nearest wholesaler who can give you access to Packard products.


Repaired Draft Inducers.

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Can a draft inducer be repaired and still perform safely?

As a rule, a draft inducer should not be repaired.  If one fails, it should be replaced with a complete blower assembly.  And not just any blower assembly, but one that is equivalent to the original.  Repair using replacement parts should only be considered when the original failed component is crossed to a specific replacement part.

Each draft inducer is designed very specifically for a particular furnace.  When applied properly, the draft inducer provides the right amount of air for clean combustion and optimum furnace efficiency.  In addition, it assures a draft for removing the combusted gases, namely carbon monoxide.

As long as I have air movement with my draft inducer, I’m OK, right?  WRONG!  With improper combustion, dirt and soot can result.  This will foul components and the living environment.  More importantly, carbon monoxide levels may increase in the living area.  Carbon monoxide can result in death if levels are too high.

Carbon monoxide is measured in parts per million (PPM).  Putting that into perspective, envision one million new one-dollar bills placed on edge and side-by-side.  They would measure about 350 feet in length.  That’s longer than a football field!


Source:  The National Comfort Institute

The National Comfort Institute chart shows the effect of carbon monoxide on our wellbeing.  Even low levels of carbon monoxide can have serious consequences.  This is why every technician working with draft inducers, or any gas-fired appliance, must take every precaution, including proper repair procedures, to ensure that the appliances are operating safely.  This includes analyzing combustion and the flue exhaust, as well as measuring levels of carbon monoxide in the living area.

When it comes to a draft inducer failure, there is an easy fix.  But do it properly and safely!  Only use the right part!