Rusty fan Guard - Repaint or replace?

[lisag]

Hi all,
Been a long time since I visited...I hope everyone is doing well!

I have a quick question about my electric heat pump's outdoor compressor unit. After a recent winter check-up from my HVAC service provider, I noticed the fan guard screwed to the top of the compressor has a little rust and I'm wondering if I should either...

1) Have the fan guard replaced by my HVAC service provider (the tech didn't mention any concerns about it during the winter check)

-OR-

2) Can I simply shut off the unit, unscrew the fan guard and paint it with an appropriate spray paint (ie - appliance paint) to protect it from the winter snow, etc.?

I painted center circle of the fan guard this summer, which was rusty, by simply cutting a correctly sized hole, covering the rest of the compressor, then spraying it with an applicance spray paint that could tolerate high temps, etc. and that seemed to work well. I'm hoping I can do the same with the fan guard.

Thanks!
Lisa G.

[dash]

You'll likely find the fan motor and wiring are connected to the fan guard,so it may not be that easy ,since you really need to paint both sides.If you attempt it be sure the electric power is off!!!

We see where customers paint them with a brush,not as nice looking,but effective.


Buying a replacement one ,is very costly ,for that type of part.

[lisag]

Got it...so power off and paint with a brush is probably better. And yes, the motor wires are connected to it underneath via a plastic clip, so I'll be careful.

Thanks!

[dhvac]

try to not get any paint on the fan blades

and as stated be carefull

[billva]

leave it as is, so you know how old and inefficient it is.

rustoleum, at this point, why not?

[smokin68]

Is it an eyesore??? If so,wirebrush it and brush paint as suggested. If not, don't worry about it.

[lisag]

Yes, it's a bit of an eyesore, but my primary reason for painting it, is to protect the metal and help it last longer. I don't understand why I would want to leave it as is, if I can do some preventative maintenance...I know how old it is and if a little TLC can extend the life of the fan guard, all the better!

Re: ensuring no paint gets on the fan blades...I was also planning to put a drop cloth opening while I paint, to ensure nothing gets into the unit itself.

Lisa G.