WEIRD NOISES COMING FROM MY AC: WHAT COULD BE WRONG?

Admin • August 17, 2022

Air Conditioning Fan — Colorado Springs, CO — Home Heating Service, Inc.

Even a perfectly functioning AC unit will make some noise. For example, you might hear a faint humming sound when it kicks on. The humming noise is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about, but if your AC unit starts making strange, unfamiliar noises, that’s a different story.

TYPES OF AC SOUNDS AND THEIR SIGNIFICANCE

All sorts of strange noises can come from your AC unit, and they usually indicate a problem. The first step is to identify the type of noise you’re hearing. Let’s consider some of the common sounds your AC might produce and what they mean.

HUMMING NOISE

If you hear humming sounds from your AC unit, it’s likely coming from the compressor. The compressor is a motor that circulates the refrigerant through the AC. If the noise is constant and not too loud, it’s probably nothing to worry about, but if the humming noise is accompanied by other strange noises or gets louder over time, it could signal that the compressor is going bad and will need replacement.

HISSING OR SIZZLING NOISE

If you hear hissing or sizzling noises, it’s probably because there’s a refrigerant leak in the AC unit. Refrigerant is what helps cool the air, so if there’s a leak, the AC won’t be able to function properly. Leaking refrigerant could harm your AC unit and your health, so fixing it as soon as possible is important. When you hear this sound, switch off the AC and call a professional for help.

RATTLING SOUND

Many components make up your air conditioning system, and they’re all held together with screws, nuts, and bolts. If you hear a rattling sound, it’s likely because one of these components has come loose. It is usually an easy fix — simply tighten the component. However, it’s best to call a professional if you can’t identify the noise source or if the rattling persists after you’ve tightened everything up.

The rattling noise could also result from debris caught in the AC. Cleaning and servicing your AC can help prevent this from happening.

SQUEALING OR SCREAMING SOUND

If your AC starts making a high-pitched squealing noise, it’s likely because the bearings in the fan motor are going bad. The bearings help the fan rotate smoothly, and when they start to fail, they can produce a loud squealing noise. Replacing the bearings is a fairly simple repair that can be done by a professional.

This noise could also be due to worn-out belts. The AC unit has a series of belts that help move different parts of the system. If these belts wear out, they can start slipping and making a squealing noise. Replacing the belts is usually a quick and easy fix.

CRANKING SOUND

If you hear a cranking sound coming from your AC unit, it’s likely because the starter capacitor is going bad. The starter capacitor helps the compressor motor start up, and when it starts to fail, it can produce a cranking noise. Replacing the starter capacitor is a fairly simple repair that can be done by a professional.

This noise could also result from a problem with the compressor motor itself. If the motor is failing, it can produce a cranking noise when you try to turn on the AC unit. Replacing the compressor motor is a more complex repair that should be done by a professional.

BUZZING NOISE

A problem with the electrical components usually causes a loud buzzing noise from your AC. This could be something as simple as a loose wire or a blown a fuse. The noise could also result from contactor failure. The contactor is an electrical switch that turns the compressor on and off. If it’s failing, it can produce a buzzing noise.

It can be hard to diagnose the source of most of these sounds. That’s why you need the input of our experts at Home Heating Service, Inc. to help you figure out what’s going on with your noisy AC unit.

WHY YOU SHOULDN’T IGNORE STRANGE NOISES COMING FROM YOUR AC

When an AC makes a strange sound, it’s usually a sign that something is wrong, and if you ignore these sounds, it could lead to more serious problems like a complete system failure. Also, if there’s a case of leaking refrigerant, it could harm your health.

WE ARE HERE TO HELP!

At Home Heating Service, Inc., we take pride in being a premier AC repair, maintenance, and installation service provider in Colorado Springs. Besides AC services, we specialize in heating installation, maintenance, and repair, home energy audits, green comfort, and water quality.

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7 Simple Habits That Can Extend Your HVAC System’s Life by 5 Years

By Sydney Bagby • September 8, 2025

Picture this: It’s the coldest night of the year in Colorado Springs, the kind of evening that calls for soft blankets, hot cocoa, and a cozy home—when suddenly, your furnace quits. If you’ve ever felt the sting of an unexpected HVAC breakdown, you know not just the discomfort, but the worry about repairs, costs, and who you can trust to help. Here’s the good news: With just a handful of simple, proactive habits, you can help your HVAC system run more reliably for years to come—potentially extending its life by five years or more. No technical skills required. Just a little bit of neighborly advice and a regular routine can keep your family comfortable, save money, and bring real peace of mind. At Home Heating Service, we believe every homeowner deserves honest, straightforward guidance—never pressure. That’s why we’ve put together the essential habits that every Colorado Springs resident can practice to protect their investment and steer clear of costly surprises. Ready to take control of your comfort? Let’s jump into the seven habits that can add years of life—and peace—to your home’s most important system. The Real Cost of Neglecting Your HVAC System in Colorado Springs When it comes to HVAC systems, a little neglect can add up—fast. According to industry data, the average furnace repair in Colorado Springs ranges from $200 to $800, and replacing a system can easily top $5,000. But the highest cost might be the comfort you lose when your home goes cold or hot at the worst moment. Many homeowners tell us their biggest worry isn’t just the bill—it’s the fear of being caught off guard or having to scramble to find a trustworthy pro. Here’s the truth: most breakdowns happen not because systems are old, but because a few small, preventable issues are left unchecked. The good news? Staying ahead is easier than you think. Habit #1 – Change Your Air Filter Regularly A clean filter is your HVAC’s secret weapon. When filters are clogged, your system works harder, burns more energy, and wears out faster. In Colorado’s dusty, dry climate, check your filter every month—especially during peak heating and cooling seasons. Most homes do best with a change every 1–3 months. Quick test: Hold the filter up to the light—if you can’t see through, it’s time for a new one. Habit #2 – Keep Vents & Registers Clear Ever moved a sofa and noticed the vent beneath it was blocked? Obstructed vents force your system to work overtime and can shorten its life by years. Once per season, do a sweep of your home: move furniture and drapes, check for toys or debris, and vacuum around the registers. Proper airflow keeps every room comfortable and your system humming along, stress-free. Habit #3 – Schedule Seasonal HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Preventative care is powerful. Having your system checked by a trusted professional each spring (for cooling) and fall (for heating) can catch little issues before they grow into big, expensive problems. Professional maintenance includes cleaning burners, inspecting electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and running safety checks—all things that keep your system efficient, safe, and long-lived. Comfort Club benefit: Two included tune-ups each year, priority scheduling, and a technician who treats your home like their own. Habit #4 – Monitor and Adjust Your Thermostat Smartly Constantly raising and lowering the temperature wears out your system’s components and spikes your utility bill. Instead, set a comfortable range—68–72°F in winter, 75–78°F in summer—and use a programmable or smart thermostat to keep temperatures steady when you’re away or asleep. If you’re not sure how to set up your thermostat for maximum comfort and savings, ask your Home Heating Service tech at your next visit. Habit #5 – Address Unusual Noises or Smells Promptly If your system rattles, bangs, or starts to smell odd (think burning, musty, or chemical odors), don’t ignore it. These can be early signs of mechanical problems, electrical issues, or leaks. Catching and fixing these early—with a quick call to your trusted local technician—can prevent major, costly repairs and keep you safe. Comfort Club priority: Members get front-of-the-line scheduling when issues pop up. Habit #6 – Keep Outdoor Units Clean and Unobstructed Your outdoor condenser (AC) or heat pump needs space to “breathe.” If it gets clogged with leaves, grass, or snow, the system strains and wears out quickly. Every month, glance outside: clear away debris, trim back bushes by at least two feet, and make sure gutters aren’t dripping on the unit. Seasonal tip: In spring and fall, do a deeper clean and check drainage to prevent hidden blockages. Habit #7 – Invest in Professional Duct Cleaning & Sealing Dirty or leaky air ducts can rob your system of efficiency and lead to wear-and-tear that shortens its life. If you’ve noticed uneven heating, excess dust, or higher bills, it may be time for duct cleaning or sealing. Signs you need service: visible dust blowing from vents, odd odors, or rooms that never seem comfortable. Comfort Club advantage: Ask about annual duct checks and members-only pricing. Common Pitfalls—What Shortens HVAC System Life? Even the best intentions can be undone by a few common habits. For example: Skipping regular filter changes Ignoring annual tune-ups Blocking vents with furniture or decor Attempting risky DIY repairs Postponing small fixes until they become big ones Avoid these “don’ts” and your HVAC system will thank you with years of steady service. How Comfort Club Simplifies HVAC Maintenance in Colorado Springs Every tip above is easier—often worry-free—with Comfort Club. Members get: Automatic reminders for tune-ups Two included professional maintenance visits each year Priority scheduling (no waiting when you need help most) Honest, no-pressure advice from trusted local technicians Special discounts on repairs and services Here’s what Carol, a long-time Comfort Club member, shared: “I used to worry every season that something would go wrong with our furnace. Now, I know Home Heating Service has us covered—and I can actually relax.” FAQs Q: How often should I really change my air filter? A: Every 1–3 months—more often during heavy use or if you have pets. Q: Does regular maintenance really make a difference? A: Absolutely. Our technicians catch small issues before they become costly, and well-maintained systems run longer and more efficiently. Recap The 7 simple habits: Change your air filter regularly Keep vents and registers clear Schedule seasonal professional maintenance Use your thermostat smartly Address unusual noises or smells fast Keep outdoor units clean and unobstructed Invest in professional duct cleaning and sealing Start with one—then make them all part of your routine. Small habits lead to big comfort and real peace of mind. Ready to make comfort worry-free for years to come? ✅ [Join Comfort Club today] for priority service, expert care, and neighborly support since 1988. Questions? Our team is just a call or click away—neighbors helping neighbors, since 1988.