Air conditioner noises aren’t only annoying. AC noise may indicate a significant problem. These are sounds your air conditioning system should never make.
7 AC Noises that Must Not Be Ignored
Don’t ignore these AC noises. These seven AC noises are potential harbingers of big problems.
1. Hissing or Bubbling Sounds
Snake or air conditioner? A refrigerant leak may cause your AC to hiss or bubble. If refrigerant leaks, it hisses. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, consult a professional immediately since refrigerants are harmful.
Common AC refrigerant leak causes:
- Schrader Valve Leak
- Heat Pump Accumulator Rusted
- AC/Heat Pump Leak Coil-damaged Lines
- Rusted Dryer
- Malfunctioning Flares
- Capillary Tube Holes
2. Rattling Sounds
A rattling air conditioner may indicate a blower or assembly motor issue. A loose assembly motor or blower part may be rattling around the condenser unit outside. This is a simple DIY remedy. Turn off your air conditioner and check the condenser unit for loose or disconnected parts.
3. High-Pitched Squealing
A high-pitched screeching noise from your air conditioner indicates high compressor pressure. If pressure rises, compressor sensors cut off the air conditioner. However, air conditioner compressor pressure can rise dangerously. If your AC makes this noise, turn it off and call a technician.
4. Loud Buzzing or Popping
If your air conditioner makes loud buzzing, vibrating, or popping noises, it may be electrical. HVAC technicians should tackle electrical difficulties. The circuit breaker, fan motor, or loose wiring may be the problem. A dirty air filter or AC unit debris can trip the circuit breaker. Call your technician for other fan motor or loose wire issues.
Buzzing electrical components include circuit breakers (if your AC uses more amps than the breaker can handle, it may trip), and condenser fan motor.
Even if it looks simple, consult an AC expert to determine the issue. Your unit is sophisticated and requires skilled technicians.
5. Clicking Sounds
Does your AC unit click when it goes on and off? This could be a faulty contactor or relay from another electrical control. Electricians should handle difficulties.
6. Screeching Sounds
Your air conditioner may be screaming or shrieking. Screeching noises usually come from your fan motor or compressor.
Fan Motor: If your fan motor is malfunctioning, your AC will shriek. A loose fan belt or fan motor may require AC professional replacement.
Compressor: If the screaming noise only occurs when your AC starts, your compressor is likely the problem. Your compressor may have dangerously excessive pressure. If so, call an HVAC expert and turn off your AC. It may be easier to replace the entire machine than the compressor. Before replacing the compressor or system, check with your technician and warranty.
Professionals should analyze your shrieking sound regardless of its severity. If your AC screeches, turn it off and call an expert.
7. Banging Noises
If your AC is thumping, be concerned. This sound indicates a blower assembly or motor issue. Loose motor mounts. Your blower may be misaligned. Turn off your blower if it gets louder. Broken or unconnected.
Try These Air Conditioning Quieting Tips
Determine the Cause
Knowing why your air conditioner is noisy makes it easier to quiet it. We advise homeowners with this issue to determine the cause. Does your system make any of these sounds? Which? Finding out where the noise is coming from and what kind of noise your system makes will help you find the reason.
Mounting Pad
Mounting pads between the outside unit and its concrete base reduce vibration noise.
Soundproofing
An AC unit too close to a room might make it uncomfortable. A sound-blocking fence around your outdoor unit helps reduce noise.
Essential Maintenance
Routine maintenance checkups with your preferred specialist are a simple method to keep your system running smoothly and quietly.
Elite Climate Control provides premium air conditioning systems and services to keep your house cool and comfortable year-round. Call us today if your AC makes any of the above noises. Our professional technicians will visit your home as quickly as possible to diagnose and fix the problem. Contact us today for repairs or installations.