What That Strange AC Noise Could Mean (and When to Call a Pro)

If you live anywhere near Franklin, IN, or the city of Columbus, IN, you know how important it is to have a reliable air conditioner during the summer months. Occasionally, you may notice that your AC makes noises whenever it’s on. If your AC is making a strange noise, understanding what that noise means is essential to determine the cause. The experts at Dugan Air Heating and Cooling have some tips and information about some of the most common strange AC noises, what they could mean, and when to call a pro.

Banging or Clanking

If the loud noise from your AC sounds like banging or clanking, it’s certainly cause for concern. Listen carefully for banging or clanking sounds when the unit turns off, because these sounds are particularly concerning and a major red flag. Here’s what a banging or clanking sound coming from your AC could mean:

• Compressor issues: A banging sound could be related to loose or broken parts inside the compressor, like a connector rod, springs, or screws and is usually common when the AC turns off. 
• Problems with the fan: Clanking or banging sounds may be due to unbalanced or loose fan blades, or they could simply be due to debris caught inside the fan.
• Ductwork problems: Loud banging noises coming from your ductwork may indicate that the metal is just expanding and contracting as air travels through it.
• Refrigerant issues: A banging or clanking sound could be caused by low refrigerant levels.

Buzzing Noise From Your AC

Buzzing sounds coming from your AC are something you shouldn’t ignore. This unnerving sound could be caused by several different issues. If you hear a buzzing or rattling sound, it’s best to turn your AC off and schedule a repair before the issue gets worse. 

• Electrical issues: If your AC is making noise that resembles buzzing, it might be due to electrical arcing, problems with electrical connections, circuit breaker issues, or a faulty contractor relay switch.
• Faulty compressor: The compressor pressurizes and cools refrigerant, and if it’s malfunctioning, it could create a strange buzzing noise.
• Mechanical issues: Loose parts like loose fan blades or a faulty condenser fan motor may lead to your AC making odd buzzing sounds. 
• Airflow issues: A dirty air filter or clogged vents restrict airflow, which forces your AC to work harder and could create a mild buzzing noise.
• Frozen coils: When the evaporator coils freeze, they can cause buzzing sounds due to ice and restricted airflow.

AC Making Rattling Sounds

If your AC is making a weird noise that sounds like rattling, don’t ignore it. Here are some of the most common causes for air conditioner rattling sounds:

• Loose parts: Any loose parts like screws and other hardware or loose panels will naturally cause a rattling sound, and the looser they become, the louder the sound will be.
• Fan issues: If the AC fan becomes damaged or misaligned, it will start to make an unsettling rattling sound when the unit is operating.
• Faulty components: A faulty or malfunctioning motor or compressor can cause rattling noises that occur whenever your AC starts or whenever it’s running.

Hissing or Whistling

Not only are hissing or whistling sounds annoying, but they’re also a sign that your air conditioner needs attention. These noises could be due to a variety of underlying issues, like:.

• Refrigerant leak: Most refrigerant leaks start to hiss or whistle if the leak is located near the compressor, as the pressure inside of the compressor forces the refrigerant to escape.
• Leaky ducts: Any gaps or cracks in your air ducts allow air to escape, which may create a hissing or whistling sound.
•  Valve issues: The AC valve regulates refrigerant pressure, but if it’s damaged or malfunctioning, it will allow the refrigerant to escape and cause the hissing noise.
• Low airflow: If your air conditioner has to work harder to pull air through the system due to insufficient airflow, it may produce a whistling or hissing sound.

Screeching or Squealing

Loud screeching or squealing noises are not something you should ignore if they’re coming from your AC. These noises could indicate an assortment of serious issues that need professional attention.

• Compressor issues: If the compressor’s pulley or clutch is faulty, it can cause squealing, and loud screeching noises may mean the compressor is failing.
• Condenser fan problems: Any worn or damaged parts, such as fan belts, bearings, or the fan itself, can create annoying squealing noises.
• High humidity: As indoor humidity levels rise, it causes various parts like belts to expand and contract, causing a squealing sound.
• Other causes: Some other causes of AC screeching or squealing sounds include a failing capacitor, worn isolation feet, or a refrigerant leak.

When To Call a Pro for AC Noise Issues

The most common reason that your AC makes weird noises is due to a loose part, a broken or malfunctioning part, or a refrigerant leak. While certain mild noises are completely normal, others require the help of a trained HVAC professional. Here’s when you should call a pro for your AC noise issues.

• Noise accompanied by odors: If you hear unusual noises and smell unpleasant, musty odors or a burning smell, you should call a pro to diagnose and repair the problem right away.
• Constant clicking: An unstoppable clicking noise frequently signals a serious electrical problem that only an experienced professional should handle.
• Vibrating or rattling noises: If your AC is making rattling sounds or vibrating, and the problem seems to get worse as time goes on, we recommend calling us to schedule a repair.
• You suspect a refrigerant leak: Refrigerant leaks should only be addressed by trained HVAC professionals, so it’s always best to schedule a repair the instant you suspect that your air conditioner might have a refrigerant leak.

These are just some examples, but we highly recommend that you call a pro whenever your air conditioner starts to make loud noises or unusual sounds you don’t recognize. 

How To Prevent AC Noises in the First Place

Fortunately, there are things you can do to prevent AC noises in the first place.

• Schedule routine maintenance: Regular AC maintenance is the best way to make sure that your air conditioner is running smoothly, all components are in good condition, and that you catch problems early before they turn into costly, stressful breakdowns.
• Change the filter: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can cause noises, so make sure you change the filter as recommended by the manufacturer, or more often if it’s dirty.
• Monitor components: Inspect your AC’s major components regularly to make sure they’re properly lubricated and tightened to prevent loud noises.
• Add soundproofing: Special blankets designed for specific components and acoustic panels provide extra soundproofing against common air conditioner noises. 

Contact Dugan Air Today!

If your AC is making strange noises, you don’t have to sit and wonder what’s causing it. The experts at Dugan Air Heating and Cooling are available to help you address all of your AC concerns in the Franklin and Columbus, IN areas and beyond with a no-nonsense approach to service that’s always free of gimmicks. To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment for repairs, contact us today!