Air conditioners are usually loud and shaky during operation, but some sounds are signs of a faulty unit that need thorough attention. These noises don’t necessarily mean you need to replace your system, but it’s a malfunctioning issue that can cause severe damage if left unattended. Here are common air conditioner noises, causes, and troubleshooting tips.
The clunking or rattling noise is a common AC problem indicating loose components within the air conditioner. It’s caused by broken and worn-out parts, loose fan blades, or massive debris stuck in the air filter. Loose and broken parts are a common problem with older units.
Open your AC to locate the source of the problem. Look for loose parts, debris on the air filter, and broken components. If the air filter is cleanable, clean it, or consider calling a professional HVAC technician for a complete replacement and fixing the broken and loose components.
This indicates debris is stuck somewhere in your air conditioner. Noise from the indoor AC unit means a thin sheet or sliver of paper is producing a whirring or whistling sound when air flows through it. The debris might be straw, feathers, or fallen leaves if the noise comes from the outdoor AC unit.
However, if the noise is louder, like a helicopter blade, there might be a problem with the fan motor or fan blades. These parts usually make loud whirring noises when they start to wear down.
Dirty air conditioner coils can cause a humming noise. Dirt buildup on the evaporator or compressor clutch coil can cause loud rattles, like low-humming noises. A faulty compressor can also cause this noise, which means the air conditioner has an electrical problem.
Open the outdoor unit to check if the evaporator is dirty or if the compressor is vibrating abnormally and producing a humming sound. You can use a blower to blast away dirt from the coils or use a soft blush to gently scrub the dust. If the problem persists, consider doing a thorough aircon cleaning.
A refrigerant leak can cause a squealing or hissing noise, which could indicate a puncture in the air conditioner’s gas line.
Switch off and unplug your air conditioner immediately to prevent further damage or accidents. Avoid handling leaks as the refrigerants could be dangerous. Contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect the appliance, conduct necessary repairs, and recharge the gas.
Abnormal air conditioner noises are signs that something isn’t right with your unit. Don’t hesitate to find the source of the noise and conduct necessary repairs, part replacement, or regular maintenance to prevent extensive damage. Consider calling HVAC professionals at Air Creation Heating & Cooling, LLC, to fix your AC without compromising efficiency and safety of your system.
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