The modern air conditioning system operates more quietly than ever before. Turn it on and you should hear a faint, low-level hum. However, if you start hearing strange noises coming from the unit, it’s likely a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible. All Seasons Inc. highlights six of these warning signs here.
1. Buzzing
A buzzing sound coming from your outdoor condenser unit could be a sign that there are loose parts inside. It could be the outdoor fan or the fan blades. Sometimes, the accumulation of debris causes the buzzing sound — an indication that the coils or air filter needs cleaning. It can also be a sign of a refrigerant leak, which you can tell if your AC isn’t cooling your home enough. To diagnose the problem, get in touch with your technician right away.
2. Clicking or Popping
When the air conditioner turns on, a single click or pop can mean that it is talking to the thermostat. There is no need to worry about this. If the clicking or popping sound keeps happening, you might have a problem. Changes in temperature can also cause the ducts to expand and contract, which can make this kind of noise. A professional can resolve the issue by cleaning the system, fixing any leaks and adjusting the dampers in the ducts.
3. Squealing
One of the louder sounds an air conditioner can make is a high-pitched squeak or squeal. This could mean that the belt on the blower motor has slipped and needs to be adjusted. Most new systems don’t use belts anymore, so this problem is only found in older ones. Newer air conditioners can still make a high-pitched noise if the bearings on the condenser are worn out or if the compressor stops working. Both problems need to be fixed right away by a technician so that the motor doesn’t break down.
4. Rattling
Rattling is one of the common annoying sounds that comes from an AC system. It’s possible that debris has gotten into the system. A much more serious cause is that loose pieces have broken off and are now rattling around in the ducts or fan. If the outdoor compressor has been damaged, a fan blade may have bent and be brushing the sides of the casing. No matter what caused the problem, the damage could get worse, so contact your technician as as soon as possible.
5. Hissing
A hiss from your AC could indicate one of two things: there is an air leak somewhere in the system or a refrigerant leak. All split systems and ducted air conditioners contain refrigerant gases. The air moving through the system is treated with these gases to deliver the necessary heating and cooling. A refrigerant leak hampers your AC system’s performance, so make sure to address this right away.
For top-quality HVAC services, look no further than All Seasons Inc. Our team of certified HVAC technicians is ready to diagnose the problem of a noisy AC system and perform the necessary fixes for your peace of mind. Call us today at (253) 879-9144 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We proudly serve homeowners in Tacoma and Puyallup, WA.