Fans, Blowers an' Such ...

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I was right. There is no separate warranty with the fan,
and couldn't find this option covered in the stove warranty,
which indicates Travis' confidence in that unit.

I don't know the difference between a speed switch and a
rheostat, but I read here it's not recommended.
Rheostat works like a dimmer switch, much like my blower switch, the further you turn it, the faster the blower....no steps like Speed 1-2-3. I wonder why a Rheostat isn't recommended ???....pretty much what the blower switch does, same principal
 
Yup, dunno the difference either. I think I read it
in another fan thread which isn't too deep in the nest.

Calling the dealer / Travis today. I'll report back.
 
BB, just found another source in an online fan parts supplier, non-OEM:

"... do not use light dimmer switches as speed controls for the centrifugal blower.
Controls should be approved for use with the motors found in these units
."

No explanation given.
 
Welp, just got off the phone with a rep from Dean's.

Rep: "Hello, is this Mr Otis B Driftwood?" ( I only gave them our last name when I left a message. )
Me: "Yes, hi. We're having problems with the blower on our Rainier."

Rep: "What's the problem?"
Me: "Pretty sure the speed control is going. Started having problems a few weeks ago."

Rep: "Yes, we have the rheostat in stock. It's $31.95." ( Note the term "rheostat". Loosey goosey? )
Me: "Is this thing under warranty? I checked and couldn't find anything."

Rep: "Hmmm ... we don't seem to have you here as buying it here."
Me: "I bought both the stove and blower there and have the paperwork."

Rep: "90 Days for Parts."
Me: "We've only had it over a year. Travis won't back it up better? Is this a common problem?"

Rep: "No."
Me: ( Loser, again. ) "Well if I'm in the area ... how many do you have in stock?"

Rep: "Nine."
Me: "Thanks."


So you see, a $1.98 part for under $50, but it's obvious it's a known issue.
Before I talked with her, I talked with another guy who was very familiar
with replacing the switch and walked me through it. I didn't even ask,
he volunteered.

Net: THANK GAWD I got a simple setup. I've read there's been many
disasters in regards to their pellet stoves made over the past coupla years.
But I'll be GD'd if I'm gonna buy a whole new blower for over $300 with this
kind of BS, I'll tell you for sure.
 
Thanks to all who've read and responded. I consider this case CLOSED.
 
And on that note...
 
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