WHAT IS CAUSING MY AC UNIT TO MAKE NOISE?
Your air conditioning unit keeps you from sweating in the heat and suffering through the long summer months. Without it, you’ll likely find yourself standing in front of the open refrigerator or trying to hop the fence to your neighbor’s pool just to get comfortable.
When your AC unit is on the fritz though, you may not quite know how to diagnose it. One of the most common complaints homeowners have is a noisy AC unit. While excessive air conditioning noise can be caused by a variety of factors, there are some that are more likely than others.
Use this guide to help you figure out why your air conditioning unit is so noisy and how you can get it running correctly again.
Air Filter Making Noise? Clogged Air Filter?
The air filter in your air conditioning unit helps to make sure you breathe clean air that’s free of debris, pet dander, and other little bits and particles you don’t really want floating into your lungs. Air that isn’t perfectly clean isn’t always the only problem when you’ve got a clogged, oil air filter though.
An air filter that needs to be replaced can tax your entire AC system, making it work harder just to push air through your vents. That can result in an unpleasant noise that’s particularly noticeable around your home. So, if you’ve ever wondered “why is my air filter making noise?” that could be it!
Clogged air filters can also damage your AC system over time if they overheat, making you ask yourself, “how come my air conditioner won’t work?” Always schedule regular air filter changes and keep an extra filter on hand. That way you won’t be running to the hardware store only to find what you need isn’t in stock.
Loose Parts
When your air conditioner starts to get old, one of the most common problems is simple deterioration. AC units might look like sturdy, but they take more abuse than you might think.
As parts shake or become loose, you may hear a buzzing, humming or rattling noise somewhere in your system. Sometimes parts can be fixed, but this noise is often a sign that your AC unit needs a more serious repair to perform at a peak level.
Excess Debris
In the summer months when you first turn on your AC unit, chances are you haven’t paid too much attention to it during the cooler months. You’ve been running the heat or enjoying the spring weather that didn’t require much heating or cooling at all.
Now that you’re running the AC though, all of that not paying attention to your unit can be problematic. That’s because debris like leaves, dirt and even animal droppings can mess up your AC system and how it functions.
Take time to visually inspect your AC system inside and out. Your compressor coils are also a major area of concern, so make sure those aren’t covered with debris that could make your AC a bit louder than normal.
How Can You Detect if One of These Components is Broken?
Air conditioning systems are composed of many parts that are intricately designed to remove heat from the home while circulating cool air. If just one of these components happens to break down or malfunction, it can affect the overall performance of the system and even lead to total system failure. Listen for the noise your air conditioner is making and if it’s making the following sound, you may have a part that needs repair.
Clicking Noise
This often signals an issue with the electrical work, such as the relay switch.
Buzzing
This is most common when there is an electrical issue.
Banging
This often signs an issue with the motor and/or compressor.
Rattling
This often signs an issue with the ducts, fan, or internal mounts.
Squealing
This often signs an issue with the motor belt, in which it may be work or broken.
AC Louder Than Normal? Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
If you notice a flat tire, you don’t wait to fix it until it’s popped and torn. Just like a tire, you shouldn’t wait to address the noises coming from your A/C. Your cooling system is designed to run silently, composed of a complex network of parts that work together to provide you with cool air. If just one single part is not working, you may be able to hear it. A noisy A/C or if you have an ac louder than normal it is a sign that something could be wrong, and you should address it immediately. Ignoring noises from your HVAC system can result in further problems and costly repairs.
When it comes to HVAC repairs in Phoenix, you should always take them seriously; especially when the temperature flirts with 120 degrees. Even if it’s a small issue that doesn’t seem to affect the overall performance of your A/C, it can easily develop into a complicated problem that leaves you facing costly breakdowns at the most inconvenient of times. If you notice any issues with your air conditioning system, even if it’s just a strange sound, you should take immediate action to resolve this issue and scheduled service as soon as possible. Even if the problem doesn’t sound bad, you don’t want to wait until it’s too late. Small problems can affect other parts of your A/C, resulting in bigger problems and total breakdowns. Avoid this by calling us at [hls_phone_number] as soon as you notice noises coming from your A/C. Our team at ACE is available around the clock. We are ready to help you get your A/C back to cooling your home, quietly and efficiently.
