How to Clean Industria Fan?

Industrial air movers (sometimes called carpet dryers or floor dryers) operate in high-dust, high-moisture environments. Because they run at high RPM and move large volumes of air, even moderate debris buildup reduces static pressure performance and stresses the motor.

Routine cleaning protects airflow efficiency, electrical safety, and equipment lifespan.

1. Why Cleaning Air Movers Matters

Contamination typically includes:

Drywall dust

Carpet fibers

Mold spores (restoration sites)

Construction debris

Pet hair and lint

Consequences of neglect:

Reduced airflow (CFM drop)

Increased amp draw

Motor overheating

Imbalanced blower wheel

Musty odor recirculation

In restoration or humidity control applications, airflow performance directly affects drying time.

2. Safety Protocol Before Cleaning

Air movers are high-speed devices. Follow strict safety procedures:

Disconnect power completely

Unplug unit

Confirm no residual power

Allow the blower wheel to stop fully.

Wear:

Gloves

Safety glasses

Dust mask (especially after mold jobs)

Never clean while the unit is energized.

3. Tools & Supplies Required

Phillips or Torx screwdriver (varies by dehumidification equipment manufacturer)

Soft brush

Microfiber cloth

Vacuum with crevice attachment

Mild detergent or non-corrosive degreaser

Compressed air (optional, low pressure)

Avoid pressure washers and harsh solvents.

4. Step-by-Step Cleaning Procedure

Step 1: Exterior Cleaning

Wipe down housing with a damp cloth

Remove debris from intake and exhaust grills

Check cord condition and strain relief

Exterior cleaning prevents debris from being pulled into the motor chamber.

Step 2: Open the Housing (If Serviceable)

Most professional restoration fans allow access to internal components.

Remove screws securing the shell

Carefully separate housing

Keep hardware organized

If your model is sealed and labeled "no user serviceable parts," limit cleaning to intake/exhaust areas.

Step 3: Clean the Blower Wheel

Air movers use centrifugal (squirrel cage) blowers.

Procedure:

Vacuum loose debris first

Brush each blade evenly

Wipe buildup from the entire wheel circumference

Ensure both sides of the blades are clean

Uneven cleaning causes rotational imbalance and vibration.

Do not bend or deform blower fins.

Step 4: Clean Motor Compartment

Remove dust using a vacuum

Use compressed air lightly across cooling vents

Do NOT spray liquid into the motor

Moisture intrusion into windings can cause short circuits or insulation breakdown.

Step 5: Inspect Components

While open, check:

Blower wheel cracks

Shaft play or wobble

Loose mounting screws

Burnt wiring smell

Bearing noise (spin manually)

Address abnormalities before reassembly.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

Confirm all parts are completely dry

Reinstall housing securely

Restore power

Test at the lowest setting first

Listen for abnormal vibration

A smooth, stable sound indicates proper balance.

5. Cleaning Frequency Recommendations

High particulate load requires more frequent maintenance.

6. Deep Sanitation After Mold Jobs

If used in mold remediation:

Disinfect housing with an approved antimicrobial solution

Avoid oversaturating internal components

Replace intake filters if applicable

Consider HEPA vacuuming the internal chamber

Never reuse contaminated units without proper sanitation.

7. What NOT to Do

Do not pressure wash the unit

Do not submerge any part

Do not spray directly into the motor

Do not operate while damp

Do not ignore vibration after reassembly

Improper cleaning can cause more damage than dust buildup.

Industrial air movers are high-duty drying tools. Cleaning them is not cosmetic — it is operational maintenance.