So we had the company that installed our ac unit come over and check the furnace blower motor as it was squeaking like a bearing went out. 

The tech showed me a picture of the blower wheel and there was alot of debris in there and said that was more than likely the culprit. I asked if I could clean it and he said well yea but your going to need to pull the whole motor out to get to it. 

It is a very old unit and he recommended I replace it which I agree but times are tough. So I was able to reach my hand in (after of course cutting power to the breaker) and all the debris came out in one swoop as pictured.

When I cut the breaker back on and went upstairs my Google nest thermostat quit working. As the tech was still in the driveway I went out and asked about the thermostat not working and told him what I did. 

He said you will damage the ac condenser with the loose debris blowing out now and this home repair will cancel your warranty.

My question is, is that even possible? The blower motor sit right under the heating element and AFAIK it just blows straight to the ductwork from there.

Now because the thermostat isn't working now i haven't turned on the unit since I cleaned it. Should I leave it off until the blower is replaced and or professionally cleaned?

Also it seems like a really weird coincidence that the nest thermostat stopped working at the exact same time. No display or anything. It is a little older so id like some thoughts on that too before I buy a new thermostat (no display at all. Even changed battery)

Ty for your time reading 

Voided ac warranty by removing debis by hand