Your HVAC unit can get noisy every once in a while, but that’s normal… right? Well, it is, unless you regularly encounter sounds like this.
These bad noises can mean you need to call for repairs, but instead of getting stuck in a Google search loop by typing in “repairs for HVAC near me” then scanning the results, you should get ahead of the curve and already have an HVAC company in mind (hint hint, wink wink). Let’s talk about what sounds you should listen out for, and what they mean.
Humming or Buzzing (Really Lightly)
Buzzing sounds are almost always related to electrical components in your AC. This isn’t something you should even inspect on your own. If you can hear a light buzzing sound, it’s worth calling your technician and scheduling a repair.
Do not risk any unnecessary exposure to live electrical wiring. While you might be curious whether or not you can fix it on your own, it’s a huge hazard. Stay safe and call a professional with the tools and experience to take care of this for you.
Loud Banging Noises
Sometimes you hear a little rumble or the sound of forced air coming through the vents, but what you shouldn’t hear is a loud banging sound. This happens when certain components in your AC come loose and bang around.
It may start off small, but as parts loosen, it becomes more dangerous for your air conditioner. This isn’t specific to one component, either–just about anything can knock around and cause problems.
High-Pitched Wailing or Screeching Sounds
This one is particularly bad. When two pieces of metal move against one another in our air conditioner, they’re lubricated. This lets them move easily without scraping.
Lubrication wears off over time. When individual metal components in your AC begin to clash, they produce a wailing sound that might remind you of chairs being scraped against the floor in elementary school.
This is the sound that happens before something breaks. While some of the other sounds on this list are more like a warning shot, this signals that you’re close to a breakdown. Stop the AC and call for emergency repairs as soon as possible.
Distant Clapping
During operation, your thermostat will send a signal to the air conditioner to let it know it’s time to turn on. When this happens, you might hear a little click from the thermostat on your wall. That’s completely okay.
Unless the clicking doesn’t stop. This is a sign of electrical problems, and if that clicking isn’t actually coming from the thermostat, you could be hearing a capacitor failure in action.
It’s difficult to diagnose just from listening. Your HVAC technician will be able to diagnose the problem and find out exactly what’s wrong.
Put a Stop to Abnormal Noises
Your AC shouldn’t make those noises, and you shouldn’t have to put up with it. Let’s get your air conditioner fixed before it incurs more damage.
Think of these noises as your air conditioner firing a warning shot. Fixing the problem now should hopefully prevent a full breakdown. Be aware and alert of your air conditioner sounds, and you’ll be able to deal with problems as they happen.
Contact JN Electrical Temperature Control, Inc today to schedule your next air conditioner repair. Customer satisfaction is our #1 goal.