The perfect air conditioning can make even the worst summers bearable, because we all want to stay cool even in this season. The last thing you want is for loud noises to disrupt that peace and comfort. What’s more, if your air conditioner is making more noise than just a little bit of humming, that could mean that your cooling system has a problem. That is why we’re here to help you troubleshoot some common AC noises:
1. Humming: It is normal to hear humming from your air conditioner, but if it seems louder than usual, it is likely that the sound is being made by the fan. Often, good cleaning is all it needs, but if that doesn’t work , there might be a problem with the parts of the fan: bent fan blades, old and worn-out components, and a failing fan motor are all possibilities.
2. Buzzing/popping: If your air conditioners start producing buzzing or popping noises, it almost always means that there is an electrical issue. The issue could be with the relays, contactors, circuit breaker, fan motor or just loose wiring. Electrical issues are usually dangerous and should be handled by a HVAC technician. It is important to switch off your AC and call a professional as soon as possible to get your system working right again.
3. Banging/Clanking/Rattling :These sounds are heard from the AC’s condenser (the outdoor unit), and this indicates that there might be a problem with the unit’s fan or indoor blower. There is a chance that the fan or blower is off-balance, and it is hitting the other parts of the unit. It is also likely that the fan is hitting an object that fell inside of the unit, or it is a loose or damaged part like a rod, crankshaft or piston pin that is making the clanking sounds.
4. Clicking :Clicking sounds come from your air conditioner’s electrical parts. A loud clicking sound could be produced when there is something obstructing the fan in the outdoor unit. Such sounds could also signal that there is a problem with the thermostat, capacitor or compressor. These noises are normal at system start-up or shutdown, but continuous clicking sounds are problematic, because they mean that the conditioner controls could be faulty or that the thermostat needs replacement.
5. Bubbling/gurgling: A bubbling AC sounds very similar to gurgling liquid, and that’s exactly what’s going on inside of it. The bubbling sound either comes from condensate gurgling as it passes through the drain line, or from a refrigerant leak.
6. Squealing :Squealing noises often stem from your air conditioner’s indoor unit. You will hear these high-pitched sounds when the unit is running, and this usually means that there is a problem with the fan belt. Over time, parts like these can become worn out or misaligned, leading to a motor malfunction. If you have an older unit which uses a belt system, this is most likely the problem, and you will hear sounds both inside and outside your home. Most of the newer units don’t use a belt system, so in that case, the fault could be in the condenser’s fan motor. If you hear such squealing noises, you have to get the worn-out blower fan motor bearings or belt of your ACfixed, or even replaced.
7. Whistling: Usually, a whistling sound means your air conditioner isn’t getting enough airflow. This could be due to dirty/clogged air filters (especially if you notice that your AC has stopped blowing cold air). You can fix this issue yourself by cleaning the filters. If that doesn’t work, it means that the problem is probably because of your ductworks. Your HVAC ducts could’ve developed cracks and leaks, or the duct size isn’t suitable for your AC equipment. Blocked return vents, closed dampers or too many closed doors are all also causes of a lack of airflow.
8. Hissing: Hissing noises from your air conditioner is something you should always be cautious about. This loud hissing sound is heard for about 10 – 15 minutes as soon as your AC turns on. The most common reason is a high-pressure build-up in the compressor, and this is extremely dangerous. It is crucial to switch off your AC and call us immediately.
We can handle your loud AC noises Routine maintenance checkups are an easy way to ensure your system is working properly and not making excess noise. Now that you have read this, you know that loud noises are a clear sign that your air conditioning needs repair. We will help you to troubleshoot these noises, find the reasons behind them and stop them, ensuring your safety and comfort.