There’s nothing quite like feeling the cool, refreshing blast of air conditioning on a hot Tucumcari, NM, day. But what happens when that familiar hum turns into a symphony of strange, unsettling noises? Your AC system is trying to tell you something, and ignoring it can lead to a costly breakdown. From the attic to the outside unit, every strange sound is a potential warning sign that something is amiss. Don’t wait until the cool air stops flowing; a little proactive listening could save you a lot of money and discomfort. Here are four troublesome noises AC systems can make and what they likely mean:
Grinding or Screeching Sounds
A grinding or screeching sound from your air conditioner, especially from the outdoor condenser unit or the indoor air handler, is an urgent warning sign. A failing motor bearing often causes it. Bearings are what allow the motor’s shaft to spin smoothly, and when they wear out, they create friction and a loud, metal-on-metal noise. If left unaddressed, the motor can seize up completely, leading to a much more expensive repair or a full system replacement. This isn’t a DIY fix; it requires a professional service technician to replace the motor or its bearings safely.
Banging or Clanking AC Noises
Do you hear a distinct banging or clanking sound? If so, it’s usually a sign of a loose or broken part. This can be as simple as a fan blade that has come loose and is hitting the inside of the outdoor unit’s cabinet. It could be a more serious issue, like a piston or connecting rod in the compressor that has come loose. You should never ignore a banging sound. It can cause catastrophic damage to the compressor, the most expensive component of your AC system. A qualified service technician can diagnose the exact cause and secure or replace the part before it leads to a total system failure.
Hissing or Bubbling Sounds
A hissing or bubbling sound is a tell-tale sign of a refrigerant leak. Hissing is often the sound of refrigerant escaping from a crack in a line. A bubbling sound can be a sign of a leak in the evaporator coil. Refrigerant is the lifeblood of your AC system. When it leaks, the air conditioner loses its ability to cool your home efficiently. Not only does this reduce performance, but it can also be an environmental hazard. A professional HVAC service technician has the tools to detect the leak, repair it and properly recharge the system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
Clicking or Ticking AC Noises
While some clicking is normal when the AC system turns on or off, a constant or persistent clicking sound is cause for concern. This could indicate a problem with the compressor’s relay, a faulty thermostat or an issue with the electrical components. These electrical problems can be dangerous and are best handled by a professional.
A service technician can safely inspect the wiring and components, identifying the source of the clicking and preventing a potential electrical short or fire hazard. An untrained individual should never attempt to repair electrical issues due to the risk of injury and further damage to the system. Contact I.T.S. Refrigeration & Heating, Inc. to have our service technicians visit your home and safely eliminate the AC noises.
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