What issue do bent vanes on a direct drive blower wheel in an air handler cause?

Bent vanes on a direct drive blower wheel in an air handler are detrimental because they disrupt the smooth flow of air that the blower is designed to produce. When the vanes are bent, they can cause turbulence and a reduction in the effective area through which air can pass, leading to a loss in airflow. This reduction in airflow means that the system cannot deliver the intended amount of conditioned air to the space, which can result in uneven temperatures and discomfort for occupants.

Additionally, the obstruction created by bent vanes places extra strain on the blower motor, leading to excessive wear over time. This strain not only shortens the lifespan of the motor but can also cause it to operate inefficiently, potentially leading to overheating. Furthermore, the irregular airflow caused by bent vanes can generate increased noise due to the turbulence and non-uniform movement of air through the system, making the environment less pleasant.

In contrast, other options like increased airflow and efficiency, improved air distribution, and lower energy consumption do not result from bent vanes; those aspects would only be true if the blower wheel was functioning correctly and the vanes were in good condition.