The 5 Most Common Noises in Your Air Conditioner: Causes and Fixes

Introduction

Summertime brings relief from the heat, thanks to our trusty air conditioners. However, if your AC unit starts making unusual noises, it can be a cause for concern. In this blog post, we’ll explore the five most common causes of noises in air conditioners and provide you with step-by-step solutions to fix them. Don’t let those mysterious sounds ruin your comfort – let’s dive into understanding and resolving these issues.

Loud Humming or Buzzing

One of the most common air conditioner noises is a loud humming or buzzing. This is usually caused by loose or worn fan belts. The fan belts are what turn the fans in your air conditioner, so if they’re loose or worn, they can make a lot of noise.

To fix a loose or worn fan belt, you can try tightening the belt yourself, if you are a confident DIY handyman. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the belt altogether.

Hissing or Screaming

Another common air conditioner noise is a hissing or screaming sound. This can be a sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is a gas that helps your air conditioner cool your home. If there’s a leak, the refrigerant can escape, which can cause the air conditioner to make a hissing or screaming noise.

If you hear a hissing or screaming noise coming from your air conditioner, it’s important to call an HVAC technician right away to have the leak repaired.

Banging or Clanking

A banging or clanking noise could be caused by a number of things, such as a loose compressor, a faulty fan, or a damaged motor. The compressor is the heart of your air conditioner, so if it’s loose or damaged, it can make a lot of noise.

To fix a banging or clanking noise, you’ll need to identify the source of the noise and take steps to repair it. This may require calling an HVAC technician.

Clicking or Rattling

A clicking or rattling noise can be caused by dirt or debris buildup, loose screws, or a worn bearing. The bearings are what allow the fans and other components in your air conditioner to move smoothly. If they’re worn, they can make a clicking or rattling noise.

To fix a clicking or rattling noise, you can try cleaning the unit, tightening the screws, or replacing the bearing, but most cases, it would be advisable to pay a little more, and contact a HVAC company to get a technician out to assess the problem thoroughly, to make sure that there is not something else wrong.

Dripping, Gurgling, or Wet Noises

Finally, a dripping, gurgling, or wet noise could be a sign of a water leak. The water in your air conditioner is used to cool the refrigerant. If there’s a leak, the water can escape, which can cause the air conditioner to make a dripping, gurgling, or wet noise.

If you hear a dripping, gurgling, or wet noise coming from your air conditioner, it’s important to turn off the unit and call an HVAC technician to have the leak repaired.

Conclusion

If you hear any of these noises coming from your air conditioner, it’s best to have it checked out by a qualified HVAC technician. They can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action to fix it.

Although we have discussed various technics regarding the servicing and care of your air conditioner, here are additional tips to help prevent air conditioner noises:

  • Keep the unit clean and free of debris.
  • Inspect the unit regularly for loose screws or other damage.
  • Have the unit serviced annually by a qualified HVAC technician.

By following these tips, SOS Air Conditioning Systems can help you keep your air conditioner running smoothly and prevent costly repairs.

Should you require any further assistance, or need help choosing the right air conditioner for your home, don’t hesitate to call Sonia at our offices on 082 305 7612, and let us help you create the climate you deserve.

Email: info@sosairconsystems.co.za

Website: www.sosairconsystems.co.za