All air conditioners produce some sound, even new ones. This is a normal occurrence during day-to-day use and, therefore, it doesn’t call for alarm. However, in some cases, an air conditioner making noise is a symptom of a bigger issue. A professional HVAC technician needs to inspect it immediately if you hear your air conditioner emitting an unusual noise. Noises are typically a sign that there is a component(s) that’s not working correctly. As a result, the air conditioner malfunctions.
Air Conditioner Noises Should I Watch Out For
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Modern air conditioning models are built to be quieter than old ones. HVAC technology has equipped many models with noise-dampening technology and variable-speed compressors, ensuring that these air conditioning units create only 55 dB or less noise. This is the same noise level a normal dishwasher has. A problem with your cooling system will likely produce the following sounds:
Clicking Air Conditioner Noises
An air conditioner produces a sound similar to clicking noises when its cooling cycle starts or ends. Although it can be confusing, remember that frequent or continuous clicking noises can point to thermostat problems. The thermostat might need replacing. If so, ensure a licensed air conditioner technician does it.
Air Conditioner Is Buzzing
An air conditioner that buzzes may have an electrical problem. Another cause is the outdoor unit’s fan blades are loose or unbalanced. Loose parts, damaged outdoor fan motor, and dirty condenser coils are other reasons behind the buzzing noise. An air conditioner that produces a distinct buzzing sound likely has a refrigerant leak.
Humming Air Conditioner Noises
A defective contactor relay switch can cause the air conditioner to produce a humming noise. The air conditioner may not switch on if this part gets damaged. This is because the contactor relay switch receives the signal from the thermostat on when to start the outdoor unit. Contact a licensed HVAC contractor to resolve this electrical issue. At times, the humming can be a result of fan motor problems.
Screeching Air Conditioning Noises
One of the clearest noises a defective air conditioner has is a screeching noise. A malfunctioning fan motor in the condenser is highly likely the cause. The fan’s job is to remove the heat from the refrigerant. Therefore, the air conditioner cannot lower the temperature inside your home if the fan gets damaged.
A damaged fan motor can also cause screeching sounds. Indoor heat and humidity are eliminated with the help of blower fans. This component pushes the air to the return ducts, where the air conditioner cools it. It then circulates the cold air throughout the house using air vents.
A bad fan belt and a damaged fan motor can also result in screeching noises from the air conditioning unit. Call a licensed HVAC contractor as soon as you hear a loud screech or squeal from your air conditioner.
Clanking Air Conditioner
An air conditioner likely needs parts replacement when you hear clanking sounds from it. This sounds like a loose metal component is hitting another metal component. For instance, the blades of the indoor blower or the outdoor fan might have gotten loose or unbalanced. If so, they may be hitting other AC components and produce the clanking noise. Call a licensed cooling technician right away. Don’t let the problem get worse as metal hitting metal only causes more damages that require expensive repairs.
Whistling Air Conditioning Unit
Another symptom to watch out for is a whistling or high-pitched sound as if the air conditioner is screaming. A refrigerant leak or high pressure in the compressor are the usual culprits behind this noise. Both severe issues need to be dealt with by a professional immediately. Remember to switch off your cooling system and call an HVAC professional if this happens.
Cooling System Is Banging
If you have a defective compressor, you will hear banging sounds. These noises can be commonly heard in older air conditioners. After all, an aging system with regular wear-and-tear might have loose or unfastened components. It could also be that the air conditioner’s connecting rod, piston pin, or crankshaft is broken. These components can be found inside the compressor. Having an indoor blower that’s out of balance can also cause banging. If you are dealing with this problem, there’s a high chance you need to get an AC compressor replacement.
Whirring AC Unit
An air conditioner that sounds like it is housing a drone or a helicopter inside likely has a mechanical problem. Some of these issues are a damaged blower fan, a malfunctioning fan, or a faulty fan belt. You will hear a whirring sound when there is a loose fan blade. The best-case scenario is the sound is only due to trapped debris in the indoor blower fan or the outdoor fan unit. Consider it a warning when you hear something like a fan hitting a piece of paper.
Rattling Air Conditioner
You will hear a rattling noise coming from your air conditioner when there is loose debris in the outdoor unit. Twigs, leaves, or dirt might have fallen inside the condenser. It is relatively easy to resolve this issue as you only need to open the outdoor unit and get rid of any debris in it. However, a clean condenser can mean that the rattling is because of a problem with the electrical contractor in the air conditioner. Call an HVAC professional to repair it immediately.
Conclusion
Air conditioning systems should last for 15 years or more if they have passed the manufacturer’s quality test, are installed correctly and used reasonably, and receive regular maintenance. However, time will eventually catch up to your air conditioner, so it may not work like it used to. If you are uncertain about how to deal with the problem, don’t assume it’s a simple one. Call a trusted HVAC technician instead. A professional can determine, diagnose, and resolve the problem correctly.
Call PFO Heating & Air Conditioning For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
PFO Heating & Air Conditioning provides high-quality HVAC services in the Greater Princeton, NJ area. We have only the best highly trained and professionally certified technicians on staff who can conduct excellent heating and cooling installations, replacements, repairs, and maintenance. All our friendly techs have the right tools, experience, and knowledge to service your HVAC system correctly.
Our company offers highly competitive HVAC service rates in the locality. Rest assured, our tune-up services help improve your indoor air quality, comfort, and energy efficiency while reducing your home’s energy costs. If you need an HVAC repair or replacement system, we can recommend the best one within your budget. Your satisfaction is our priority, so all our work comes with a guarantee. Give PFO Heating & Air Conditioning a call today to schedule a service appointment. We offer free, in-home estimates.
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