Outdoor Fan Motor Fault - Not Running

Rheem HVAC Residential Critical HVAC

Model: Rheem RA17 Condenser | Code: Rheem E1

Applicable Systems
RA17 Condenser R96V Furnace RA14 Condenser

Symptoms

Outdoor fan motor not running; condenser cannot reject heat; compressor will trip on high pressure if not protected.

Possible Causes

  • Fan motor run capacitor failed
  • Fan motor bearings seized
  • Fan motor wiring damaged
  • Contactor not sending power to fan

Troubleshooting Steps

  1. Step 1: Check fan motor run capacitor (5-15 MFD typical)
    Capacitance within +/- 5% of rating
  2. Step 2: Try spinning fan blade by hand (power off) - check for seized bearings
    Blade spins freely
  3. Step 3: Check power at fan motor contactor
    240V present at contactor
  4. Step 4: Replace capacitor or fan motor as needed
    Fan motor runs at full speed
  5. Step 5: Verify condenser airflow is adequate
    Airflow strong and steady

How to Reset

Clear by cycling power after fan motor service.

Common Replacement Parts

  • Rheem Outdoor Fan Motor
  • Dual Run Capacitor

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: How to test fan motor capacitor?

    Use multimeter with capacitance function. Discharge capacitor first (short terminals). Reading should be within +/- 5% of rating printed on capacitor.

Related Rheem Fault Codes

Source: Rheem RA17 Service Manual

Category: HVAC Residential