Cool Summer: The AC Noises that You Should Be Wary

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As the summer temperatures soar, we are all looking for ways to keep cool. Whether staying inside in the air conditioning or taking a dip in the pool, we want to find the best way to beat the heat. There is no definitive answer to the question of how to keep cool. However, staying inside in an air-conditioned room is generally considered the most efficient way to keep cool.

Air conditioning units circulate cool air throughout a space. It can help lower the room’s overall temperature, making it more comfortable to stay in. Additionally, air conditioning can help to reduce humidity levels, creating a space that feels less muggy.

If you hear strange noises from your air-conditioner, it is best to call for professional help immediately. These sounds could indicate a severe problem with your unit, and the sooner you get it checked out, the better. 

Of course, not all strange noises from your AC unit cause alarm. Sometimes, it could simply be that your unit is dirty and needs to be cleaned. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and call a professional AC service technician to take a look.

Banging or Rattling Noises 

If you hear a clicking or banging noise from your unit, check to ensure the noise is not coming from the compressor or fan blade. It can be caused by a loose fan blade, a malfunctioning capacitor, or a dirty unit.  

You should turn the unit off and on again. If the noise continues, call for professional AC service. A simple fan blade replacement or capacitor repair can fix this problem.  

The rattling sound from the air conditioner might be due to a significant problem, or it might not be, but it is probably easy to fix. A small clump of dirt might cause it in the condenser that a quick cleaning could remove, or it might be caused by writing leaves and twigs getting caught in the condenser, which causes dust and dirt to build up. A large bush or another obstacle around your air conditioners can get caught in the condenser if you do not regularly clean it.

Furthermore, loose screws can also cause a rattling noise. The inside and outside parts of the air conditioner vibrate when turned on. Over time, this vibration can loosen the screws holding the components together.

As air conditioners age, screws, brackets, and other parts might become loose. You might hear a rattling noise from the unit, or perhaps the piece has been knocked off entirely. It is an easy fix and can be done at home.

When your air conditioner makes a loud banging noise when it starts, it could be due to a broken compressor. So, it is prudent to ask for a professional AC service.

Screeching and Squealing

Screeching and Squealing

When your AC unit makes a squealing sound during the start-up process, it signals something is wrong. Like a small battery, a capacitor powers the fan and compressor start-up process. If it is faulty, it can make a horrible squealing sound. If you hear this screech, you should call for an expert.

A dirty condenser can cause noise. If the condenser is dirty, you can clean it both inside and outside of it. An AC technician can also clean it for you.

Rattling, clicking, beeping, screeching, and squealing are all signs of a problem with your AC unit. If you hear any of these sounds from your air conditioner, it is best to call for professional service.

Pulsating Noise

If you hear a pulsating noise from your unit, it might be due to a problem with the surrounding pipes. The air conditioner and the lines will vibrate when the unit runs. If the pipes are loose or are not anchored well, this vibration could cause the pipes to vibrate, creating a pulsing or rumbling sound.

The solution to this problem is to tighten the pipes or anchor them to walls or other strong supports. The sound of blowing air is typical. However, if it is not as loud as it should be and seems to be coming from your compressor, there might be a problem.

Your AC unit’s compressor could wear down over time, even if engineered to be durable and long-lasting. If your unit is old, it is best to ask for professional AC service. In the future, you should also have the unit checked once a year to avoid any problems.

Hissing Noises

Hissing Noises

When you hear a hissing noise from your unit, it most likely means a leak in the seals, gaskets, hoses, or a pipe connection. Hissing also could be caused by a problem with your condenser coil if it is not working correctly.

The problem can be simple, like a loose pipe connection, or it could be more complex, like a loose hose on the unit. A technician can examine your unit and tell you the problem’s source.

When your cooling system does not cool your room very effectively, it could be due to a dirty condenser. Because of dust and dirt build-up, a condenser must be cleaned regularly every 6 to 8 months. If the condenser is not regularly cleaned, it can get dirty and reduce the efficiency of your unit. To clean the condenser, shut the power off and disconnect the unit. 

Clicking Sounds 

If you hear a clicking sound coming from your air conditioner, it might be because of a problem with the thermostat. The thermostat is designed to turn the unit on and off, which might be functioning incorrectly or damaged. A damaged thermostat might cause the unit to turn on and off repeatedly, creating a clicking sound.

If the clicking gets louder or your unit is louder than normal, it could be caused by a broken motor between the blades and the motor. Sometimes, the capacitor might short-circuit. When this happens, the unit will make a loud clicking noise. The solution to these problems is to call for a professional AC service.

Conclusion

When your air conditioner or furnace is making strange noises that you cannot seem to pinpoint, it is best to call for a professional. You could save yourself a lot of money in the future by dealing with the problem now. The longer you wait before you deal with it, the more likely the repairs will be more expensive down the road.  

If you have noticed any telltale signs, you should immediately call HVAC Swami. We offer top-notch 24-hour AC repair, so you can still enjoy summer without feeling the sweltering heat. So, contact us now!

About SWAMI

James "Swami" Edgar

James “Swami” Edgar has over 40 years of experience in Heating in Cooling and has the highest Certification in HVAC in the USA.  James also has 6 children and has been married for 35 years to his high school sweetheart Mary.  “Swami” got is name from his time surfing in Southern California at an iconic Surf Spot where he was always making waves and and telling the best jokes.  

 

Contact us to get only the best heating and cooling help in your area.  “Swami Certified!”

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