WHY YOU SHOULD LEAVE AN AC MOTOR REPLACEMENT TO THE PROS

Admin • September 20, 2022

Technician Fixing the Air Conditioner Motor — Colorado Springs, CO — Home Heating Service, Inc.

No matter what type of central HVAC system your home has, it relies on motors to circulate air. So, if your AC motor breaks down, the whole system is out of commission until you replace it. At first glance, replacing an AC motor might look like a job you can do yourself. The reality is, however, that it’s something you should leave to the professionals. Here’s why.

THE PROBLEM REQUIRES CAREFUL DIAGNOSIS

When your AC motor stops turning, your first instinct may be to assume the motor’s gone bad. That’s not always the case, though. Sometimes, the motor itself isn’t the issue at all. Without the right tools and knowledge, however, you won’t be able to tell.

There are multiple reasons that an AC motor can stop working even when the motor itself is fine.

Power supply problems
Faulty capacitors
A faulty relay
A blown fuse
A control module malfunction

A professional HVAC technician can diagnose the problem with your AC motor, so you won’t have to play guessing games to get your system working again.

IT’S NOT EASY TO FIND THE RIGHT REPLACEMENT PART

If you’ve ever gone looking for replacement parts for an HVAC system, you’ve probably noticed that there are always multiple options for the same part. In some situations, you may not even be able to find a genuine OEM replacement part for your HVAC system. That’s especially common when you’re dealing with an aging HVAC system.

When you replace a fan in an HVAC system, it’s critical to do so with a compatible part that meets its performance needs. If you use an incorrect part, however, you may not know it right away. An incompatible part could appear to work but be putting additional strain on other parts of your HVAC system. Then, you’d end up with other components failing prematurely, compounding your original issue.

AC FAN POWER WIRING ISN’T ALWAYS STRAIGHTFORWARD

Assuming your AC motor is faulty, replacing it isn’t always a straightforward task. To do the job right, you need to understand how to disconnect the power from your AC, as well as how to handle the fan’s wiring. Many HVAC systems include fans that can operate at multiple set speeds. In many cases, you set the speed of the fan by selecting different sets of wires coming from the motor. If you don’t understand the wire color coding of the fan you’re replacing, you might cripple your HVAC system’s performance — if you manage to get the new fan installed and running at all.

DISASSEMBLING AND REASSEMBLING YOUR HVAC ISN’T EASY

Another reason that you should never try to replace an AC motor on your own is the complexity involved in disassembling and reassembling the required parts. Although AC fans aren’t designed to last forever, that doesn’t mean they’re built for easy replacement. In most cases, replacing an AC fan requires substantial disassembly of the surrounding parts just to reach the faulty fan. As you do this, it’s very easy to damage other parts of your HVAC system. That can turn a relatively inexpensive DIY repair into a costly catastrophe in a hurry.

Then, even if you’re able to disassemble your HVAC to replace the broken fan, you still have to contend with putting it back together. This means you’ll need to have documented the location of every screw, wire, and panel you removed. Then, you must reassemble everything without leaving anything out and without reconnecting any wires improperly. There’s quite a bit that can go wrong, even for an experienced HVAC technician. The difference is that if you’re the one making a mistake, you’ll also be the one paying to fix it.

LEAVE THE WORK TO AN EXPERT

The bottom line here is that you can replace an AC fan yourself. It’s just that in doing so, you’re taking a substantial risk. For one thing, you could be replacing a part that’s not broken. Or, you could do more damage as you work to swap out the motor itself. There is, after all, a reason that HVAC technicians exist. It’s because most HVAC repairs — including motor replacements — aren’t something the average DIYer should attempt.

So, if your Colorado Springs, CO home has a central HVAC system with what appears to be a faulty fan, don’t go it alone. Leave it up to the experienced pros at Home Heating Service, Inc.. We offer a range of AC installation, repair, and maintenance options to help you keep your home comfortable all year round. Our team also assists with water heaters, indoor air quality and water quality solutions, insulation, and home energy audits. And we’ve served the area since the 1980s, so you won’t find a more experienced crew anywhere in Colorado Springs.

Contact Home Heating Service, Inc. today for help replacing a faulty AC fan or addressing any other issue you’re having with your home’s HVAC system today!

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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.