That noise your air conditioner's making could mean a potential breakdown or other serious problem. On the other hand, that noise could simply mean loose components or minor issues that are easy to fix during routine maintenance. Here are some of the more common noises you might hear in your cooling system and some suggestions on what to do to silence the noise your air conditioner's making.Compressor, condenser or other system components:
Banging or clanking: This could mean a loose internal component in the compressor, such as a connecting rod or crankshaft. If internal mounts or entire components are loose, similar sounds could result.
Squeaking: Moving parts, such as fan motors or bearings, may need lubrication.
Bubbling, hissing or spraying: This could mean a significant refrigerant leak. Lost refrigerant can be harmful to the local environment and can decrease air conditioner performance or cause more serious damage.
Buzzing or crackling: These kinds of noises can be caused by faulty electrical connections, arcing connections or other serious electrical problems that require immediate professional repair. They can also be an indicator of a failing motor within the system.
Clicking or snapping: This could mean a failed component trying to activate, such as a defective thermostat or control switch.
Clunking, thumping or rattling: This type of noise may be caused by loose components or other internal hardware, such as fan pulleys or component mounts.
Hissing or "screaming" noise: If loud noises of this type are coming from the compressor, it could indicate dangerously high pressure levels within the compressor. If these noises continue, shut down the air conditioner and call for professional service.
Ductwork
Rattling, clunking, thumping or banging: Animals in the ductwork system are common sources of unexpected ductwork noises. Normal expansion and contraction of the ductwork pipes could also cause these sounds. Ductwork can also conduct sounds from other parts of the system.
Hissing, roaring or whistling: This could indicate an air leak somewhere within the ductwork system.
Air Assurance brings more than three decades of professional HVAC experience to customers in the Tulsa and the Broken Arrow areas. Contact us today for more information on interpreting the noise your air conditioner's making and what to do to fix the problem.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock