What Weird AC Noises Mean and How to Fix Them
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems make all sorts of sounds as they run. Normal sounds include the whoosh of air blowing into your living space, clicking when the system starts up, gentle humming as motors and fans run and mild popping sounds as ducts expand and contract as conditioned air flows through them.
You are probably accustomed to these sounds as they occur in the background. However, some sounds indicate there may be a problem with your HVAC system. Alarming sounds such as shrieking, thwacking, squealing and hissing should be investigated by a professional HVAC contractor. The experienced team at Action Air Plumbing and Septic in Lubbock, Texas, can investigate the source of these sounds, explain what they mean and repair the underlying issue.
Squealing or Whistling
A brief squealing noise at startup is usually not a cause for concern. However, squealing or whistling that continues when the system runs may indicate a serious problem, such as too much pressure in the compressor. If the sound comes from the compressor, turn off the system immediately and call a professional. Continuing to run the system can damage the compressor and other components.
Less severe causes of squealing may be from dry bearings or a loose belt. Fans and motors require periodic lubrication. Bearings that lose lubrication may squeal or grind. Older air conditioners use belts on fans and blowers. If a belt slips, you will hear squealing when the system runs. Lack of lubrication or a loose belt should be repaired promptly to prevent damage to other parts and keep your system running efficiently.
Whistling may indicate an airflow problem. Blocked ducts and dirty filters can reduce airflow and make the system work harder to produce conditioned air. Call our technicians to identify the source of the block and rebalance the system.
Hissing
Hissing often occurs when refrigerant escapes through cracks in piping or other places in the refrigerant circulation system. AC refrigerant leaks must be repaired quickly by a professional HVAC technician.
A low refrigerant charge can affect energy efficiency and the ability of the system to produce cool air, causing a drop in comfort. Coils may freeze from condensation forming due to inadequate heat exchange. Refrigerants are harmful to the environment. Professionals are trained to handle refrigerants to reduce environmental impacts.
Banging or Rattling
Banging or rattling usually means that a part is loose. If the sound originates in the outside unit, a piston or connecting rod may be loose inside the compressor. Some parts, such as loose fan blades, can be tightened. Loose parts inside the compressor often mean the compressor must be replaced.
Debris caught in the housing or in fan blades can cause a “thwapping” or rattling noise. Clear the foreign objects to prevent excessive wear and tear on components.
Clanking
Clanking is different from banging or rattling. Clanking occurs when metal parts hit each other. Fan blades that are out of balance striking nearby components can make this sound. Poorly balanced fans can damage other parts and lower the efficiency of your system.
Our experienced technicians will check fans and other moving parts to identify the source of the problem. Rebalancing the component usually solves the issue.
How to Fix Weird AC Sounds
Call the professionals at Action Air Plumbing and Septic to investigate any unusual AC sounds. Sometimes the solution is simple, such as replacing a dirty filter or tightening belts, fans or blowers. However, some sounds indicate a serious problem, such as a damaged compressor or a refrigerant leak.
Most of the weird sounds your AC makes occur because of worn or damaged parts. The best way to keep your system working properly is to schedule seasonal maintenance. During a tune-up, our technicians inspect every part of the system to verify that components are working properly and efficiently.
We lubricate fans, motors and blowers, tighten belts, check refrigerant levels, clean coils and the condensate system and clean or change filters. We also examine ducts and test airflow and pressure.
Action Air Plumbing and Septic is a full-service HVAC company in Lubbock, providing new installations, repairs, maintenance and indoor air quality solutions. The owner is a licensed HVAC contractor and a licensed master plumber.
We work on all types of HVAC systems, heat pumps, furnaces, air purification systems, humidification systems and thermostats. We also offer plumbing installation, repair and maintenance services for sewer lines, water heaters, gas lines, septic systems, kitchen and bathroom fixtures and more.
If your air conditioner is making unusual noises, call Action Air Plumbing and Septic immediately for an evaluation.
