Why Does My AC Make Noise When It Is Running?

Air conditioners are built to be much quieter and more efficient in today’s times. However, the biggest problem that you can have is a malfunctioning AC making noise. Strange noises are inconvenient and also signify that there is something wrong. Ignoring them can be a huge mistake resulting in hefty expenses for repairs and even replacement.

There are various reasons why AC units can make noise. It can include malfunctioning compressors, loose parts ratting, and damaged isolation feet. No matter what the issue is, you will need to fix it.

Here we’ve curated a list of some of the noises that your AC unit can make and the reasons behind them. Take a look:

1. Buzzing Noises

There can be various issues with your unit when you hear a buzzing sound, including:

• Loose fan blades
• Loose or failing outdoor fan motor
• Loose or broken parts
• Refrigerant leaks
• Dirty condenser coil
• Copper lines rubbing against something
• Expired air filter
• Out of balance or a failing blower

There can be a refrigerant leak problem if your AC runs outside but not cooling inside. There may or may not be telltale noises dependent upon how bad the leak is and its location.

2. Clanking Noise

If there is a clunking sound coming out of your AC, there’s a loose part. There are chances that the parts inside the sealed unit have failed, and the compressor has become loose, which typically calls for a replacement. You shouldn’t ignore such issues as they can create a bigger problem later.

3. Banging Noise

Often a loose or broken part causes banging noises, including connecting rod or piston pin inside the AC compressor. It can also happen if the indoor blower of the air conditioner is not balanced. If there’s a banging noise coming from your system, you will need to buy a new compressor.

4. Clicking Noise

It is typical to hear the clicking of electrical components when starting and shutting down the machine. However, if there is a constant ongoing clicking, it is time to call a technician. It can be because of a defective control or faulty thermostat. As there are different electrical parts in your unit, you must pay attention to potential electrical issues at the earliest.

It can be because of the following reasons:

• Obstruction in your AC fans
• Capacitor losing its charge
• Faulty electrical signals
• Loose AC Fans
• Malfunctioning Thermostat

Noise issues can get dangerous; for example, a refrigerant leak can even trigger and cause refrigerant poisoning in humans. Ignoring such issues can get really costly, so make sure to call a professional as soon as you find it. The sooner the problem is resolved, the better it will be for your unit’s performance.

5. Squealing Noise

The duct system can transmit the blower and fan noises, including rattles, squeals, and squeaks. Both outdoor fan motors and indoor blow motors make a squealing noise whenever they turn bad. Along with them, the blower wheel and housing can also squeal when they fail.

6. Rattling Noise

If you hear a rattling noise, there can be a problem with the assembly motor or blower. It can even mean that one piece of the assembly motor or blower is loose and tossed around the condenser unit outside. It is something that you can quickly fix without a professional’s help. Make sure to switch down the power supply to your AC and check whether the components of the condenser unit are tight and connected.

7. Hissing Noise

If there is a hissing noise coming from the AC unit, there can be a chance of a refrigerant leak.

Refrigerant is required for the process of cooling. If you spot a refrigerant leak, calling a professional is the best way to get rid of it.

8. Screeching Noise

Compressor and fan motors are the two places to check if you hear a screeching or screaming noise.

Fan Motor: If your fan motor is damaged, you will hear screeching noises whenever the AC is running. There are chances that the fan belt might loosen, and in this case, you will be required to call a certified technician.

Compressor: If your AC makes a screeching noise when it is turned on, then most likely, your compressor is damaged. Your compressor may operate at higher pressure levels. If you come across this issue, it is recommended to call an HVAC technician.

Final Words 

Strange and unpleasant sounds from your AC can get unsettling and can be costly. So, you must call professionals to handle the case. But, repairing and replacing the parts of an AC can get expensive, but here you can make the smart choice- invest in a home warranty plan.

A home warranty will help you save costs and find the perfect technician for you within no time. However, before proceeding and buying a home warranty, you should check what is covered in the HVAC system and what is not.

Taking care of your ac by properly maintaining it and choosing to get regular professional inspections will help you prevent any strange sounds. Whenever there’s such a problem, you should search for the problem and call in experts at the earliest. Taking timely actions will help you in the prevention of expensive repairs.