An HVAC system typically runs very quietly in the background, so it’s easy to ignore them. We don’t really think about our air conditioning units on an everyday basis. Instead, they often only tend to come to mind when they break or start running loudly. An air conditioner won’t usually run loudly unless there’s a problem. Making sure that you are scheduling regular maintenance on your air conditioner is very important to keep your unit running smoothly and keep those air conditioner noises from happening.
A squealing noise, banging noise, clicking noise, buzzing noise, hissing noise, and other loud noises coming from your air conditioner mean there is something wrong with your system that needs to be repaired or replaced. System parts such as a fan motor, blower fan, condenser fan, fan belt, expansion valve, relay switch, compressor, and refrigerant piping can make noises when they are malfunctioning. When you start to hear any abnormal air conditioner noises, contact a professional HVAC technician at Lyons Air & Heat for an inspection. You can call us today at (214) 380-1141 or by reaching out online.
Why is My Air Conditioner Making Weird Noises?
Noises from your air conditioner can signal the need for anything from a simple tune-up to an extensive repair or even replacement of the entire unit. Ignoring air conditioner noises can turn minor issues into major expenses. The sooner you can find the cause of the noise and resolve the issue, the better.
Common Noises Made by the HVAC System and How to Address Them
Some of the common air conditioner noises that may signal the need for an inspection include the following:
Rattling or Banging Noise
A banging or rattling sound from the indoor unit or outdoor condenser unit is usually caused by loose parts. The blower fan in the indoor unit may have loose blades rattling around when the motor rotates the fan. Banging coming from the compressor can signal loose parts inside or outside the compressor.
Solution
We do not recommend fixing this on your own. Instead, you can fix the noise by calling a professional as soon as you hear the loud noises. If not, further damage can be caused while your air conditioning unit continues to run. When loose parts are repeatedly hitting against others, the banging and rattling noise will get worse and the service needed to repair may become more costly the longer you wait.
Clicking Sound
It is normal to hear a clicking noise coming from your HVAC system when an air conditioner is first started and shuts down. However, if the clicking noise continues during a cooling cycle, there may be trouble. The clicking noise can be caused by an electrical problem in the relay switch or capacitors in the compressor. Clicking may be a sign or an internal problem or that the thermostat needs to be replaced.
Solution
It can be difficult to identify electrical issues within an air conditioning unit because of how many electrical components these systems possess. You will need to have a technician come out to find and repair electrical malfunctions found. Before replacing your thermostat, consult a professional to make sure that the issue can’t be corrected with repair. If you need a new thermostat, your technician can ensure that your new thermostat is correctly installed and communicates with your home’s air unit.
Buzzing Sound
Loud buzzing noises from the air conditioning equipment outside could be the result of multiple issues, including:
- Faulty condenser fan – a buzzing sound could be the result of the fan motor going bad to the outdoor fan. Electrical issues affecting the fan motor or debris in the unit interfering with the condenser fan could also be causing the buzzing sound.
- Faulty compressor – a relay switch delivering incorrect amperage to the compressor could also cause the noise, signaling there is an electrical issue.
- Isolation feet issues – the compressor is installed on rubber isolation feet and these can loosen or sustain damage over time, which could produce buzzing sounds as the compressor runs.
- Frozen evaporator coils – if the buzzing noise is heard from the indoor unit, the problem is likely the result of frozen evaporator coils. The noises can be heard when ice has formed on the coils inside the air system.
Solution
If the buzzing noise comes from issues with the outdoor air conditioner equipment, repair services by a professional will be needed to replace the compressor ore repair the damaged or loose parts.
The system needs to be thawed if the buzzing is a result of frozen coils in the indoor unit. If you have thawed the system and your evaporator coils freeze again, you will need to call a professional for repair. A fresh air filter usually solves the problem, but there could be a more serious issue if the freezing continues.
Hissing Noise
A refrigerant leak within the system will typically result in the hissing noise you hear. The leak could be from the copper lines or a result of a faulty component such as a defective expansion valve. The hissing noise is created when the refrigerant escapes cracks in the refrigerant piping due to being under great pressure when held inside the closed system.
The hissing sound can also be an early indication of high internal pressure inside the compressor. Hissing noises will come before a high pitched squealing noise.
Solution
A professional that possesses an EPA license is required to repair a refrigerant leak. The leak will need to be repaired and then the system recharged with refrigerant to perform efficient cooling. A refrigerant leak in an older AC unit may allow harmful Freon to release into the atmosphere.
Squealing Noise
A high-pitched squealing noise that is coming from inside the compressor should be fixed as soon as possible. High internal pressure and dangerous operating conditions could be the reason for squealing. Squealing sounds will be present as the AC unit starts and will last for about 10 to 15 seconds.
Dry fan motor bearings or a loose fan belt could be a less severe cause of squealing from an AC unit. The loss of lubrication on the bearings produce squealing or grinding noises because metal rubs against metal in the fan motor. Older air conditioning units use belt-driven blowers and condenser fan units. This means that a fan belt attaches to the fan and the motor. An old belt can become loose and slip from its normal position which can result in a squealing noise.
Solution
Turn off the unit immediately if you suspect the squealing to be related to the system’s AC compressor and request a service technician to come repair the unit. Doing this as soon as possible will protect your compressor and air conditioning system.
Seasonal maintenance of air conditioners usually includes lubrication of the motor bearings. Make sure that you are scheduling seasonal maintenance to extend the life of your air conditioning system.
Grinding Noise
If you are hearing strange air conditioner noises like grinding noises, it could be annoying. There a couple of reasons you could be hearing grinding, such as compressor problems which could mean that the compressor needs to be replaced entirely due to the compressor being worn out. It could also be the result of blower fan belts being loose or damaged.
The grinding noise can happen when the belt is loose and rubs against all the other components within the ac unit. Your belt can damage other parts of the unit that it comes in contact with. It can ruin your air conditioner’s ability to function properly.
Solution
If the compressor is the issue, it is best to shut of your unit and call a professional. A grinding noise can lead to serious damage to your air conditioner if left without repair. If the belt is the issue, it can be a small fix or something major, depending on how quickly you catch the issue. This is not something that you can repair on your own, so calling a professional for your AC repair will be needed.
A Loud HVAC System Could Mean Serious Problems – Call an HVAC Professional at Lyons Air & Heat Today
Your air conditioning system is vital in creating the comfort level of your home. We forget about it most of the time when it’s running well and functioning properly as a result of regular servicing. However, we can’t forget the HVAC system as a whole. Something will eventually go wrong, and when it does, it could be extremely costly.
Ignoring air conditioning noises isn’t a good idea. We know how uncomfortable the warm air can be in the summer here in Texas. If you’re experiencing a noisy air conditioner, call the professional technicians at Lyons Air & Heat today! Our friendly, experienced, and professional technicians are happy to help you if your air conditioner is making strange noises. Contact us today at (214) 380-1141.
