Are These Scary Noises Coming from Your HVAC System?
The latest energy-efficient central air conditioning systems feature two-stage or variable speed motors that are engineered to produce little to no noise. If you notice a loud and disruptive sound from your air conditioner, this can be a clear indicator of a moderate to severe issue. These scary noises are often a sign it’s time to repair or replace your system. To help you diagnose the issue with your system, these are the 8 most common air conditioner noises that you should not ignore.
Banging Noises
If your air conditioner is making a banging noise, this is most likely an indicator of a problem with the compressor. This component is engineered to distribute refrigerant to various parts of the HVAC system to remove excess heat from your home. As your central air conditioning system reaches the middle or end of its lifespan, it is not uncommon for parts to become loose inside the compressor.
Once the parts become unfastened in the compressor, you may notice a rattling noise while your air conditioning system is running. This sound is caused by detached components that are hitting the compressor’s exterior framing. If your air conditioner is producing a banging sound, call a local HVAC technician in your area to receive assistance with this problem.
Screeching Sounds
The most common issue associated with an air conditioner making a screeching noise is a malfunctioning fan motor in the outdoor condenser unit. The central air conditioning system connected to your home features a fan that is designed to remove heat from the refrigerant. This sound may also be caused by a broken motor in the compressor of the condenser system.
A screeching noise may also be caused by a damaged blower fan motor. The blower fan is engineered to collect warm air from each room of your home. Once the blower fan motor is activated, the hot and humid air throughout your enclosure will be collected by your return ducts and sent to your air conditioning system. Next, the cold air from your system will be distributed throughout your house by the blower fan.
You may also notice a screeching sound near the HVAC system in your house due to damaged bearings in your fan motor. In addition, an impaired fan belt may also be the root cause of this noise. If you hear a loud screeching sound, immediately turn off your air conditioner and call a professional HVAC contractor.
Humming Noises
You may begin to notice a humming noise inside your air conditioner due to a defective contactor relay switch. This component is designed to start the outdoor condenser unit when it receives a signal from your thermostat. Unfortunately, you will not be able to turn on your air conditioner until this issue is inspected by a licensed technician. Do not ignore electrical issues in your system as they can cause severe damage to your central air conditioning system that will be accompanied by expensive repairs.
Buzzing Sounds
Never ignore a buzzing noise from your central air conditioning system. This sound may signal loose or unbalanced fan blades in your outdoor condenser unit. This type of sound may also be caused by issues such as a faulty outdoor fan motor, dirty condenser coils, and loose system components. A buzzing sound may also be a sign of an obstruction near the copper lines that are connected to your air conditioner. The most severe issue that may be the culprit of this problem is a refrigerant leak. Please do not ignore a buzzing sound! Be proactive and prepare for the fall season by hiring a licensed HVAC technician to perform an HVAC tune-up.
Rattling Noises
In a best case scenario, your HVAC system may be making a rattling noise due to loose debris, dirt, or leaves in your outdoor condenser unit. The easiest way to fix this issue is to disassemble the unit to remove these items. Always ensure the system is manually turned off before removing any debris. In a worst case scenario, a rattling sound may be produced by a damaged electrical contact in your system which can be extremely dangerous. If you think this is the issue, call to have it fixed as soon as possible to prevent damage to the compressor or damage to your home.
Clicking Sounds
While it may be normal to hear a clicking noise at the beginning or end of your cooling cycles, it is not normal to hear a continuous clicking sound while your HVAC system is running. This type of sound may be an indicator of a malfunctioning thermostat. Since the process of removing and installing a new thermostat is not easy, call a licensed HVAC contractor in your neighborhood to receive help. Our technicians will also help you learn the basics of scheduling and programming your new thermostat.
Hissing Noises
If your air conditioner is making a hissing noise, this may be a signal of a moderate to severe leak in your air ducts. Openings in your air duct could cause many issues including keeping your home from reaching comfortable temperatures, humidity issues, air quality issues, and more.
This sound may also be the product of a malfunctioning expansion valve or an air filter that is not compatible with your system. Immediately call an HVAC professional to perform an inspection of your air conditioning system.
Bubbling Sounds
The air conditioner connected to your house may be making a bubbling noise due to excess moisture. This type of problem may be produced by a blockage, crack, or hole in your drainage pipe. If you are a handy individual, it is easy to disassemble your air conditioner to inspect the drainage line. On the other hand, we do not recommend replacing the drainage line on your own. To fix the bubbling sound in your air conditioner, you will need special tools, equipment, skills, and training. Please call a certified HVAC technician to ensure the job is completed correctly and safely.
Get In Touch
If you notice an intrusive noise coming from your air conditioner, call Swinson Air Conditioning at (251) 990-0998. We provide trustworthy air conditioning repair, tune-up, and installation services to homes and businesses in Loxley, Fairhope, and the Eastern Shore of Baldwin County. We also offer other types of HVAC services including complete comfort system installation, heat pump maintenance and repairs, and ductless mini-split installation.
For any further questions about heat pumps or unusual noises coming from your HVAC system, visit our website at https://swinsonac.com or email us at [email protected] We are your trusted American Standard Customer Care Dealer. scary noises scary noises scary noises scary noises
