Air Conditioning: Common Sounds You Should Never Hear From Your AC
Your air conditioning unit might make a sound when it first kicks on, but most homeowners are aware of these noises and don't think much of them. However, if you hear any unusual sound that you haven't heard before, it could indicate a problem with your AC. Here are some of the common sounds to listen for and what they mean.
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1. Hissing or Bubbling
An AC unit that hisses (or bubbles) can be quite terrifying. The reason behind this sound is also terrifying, as it usually indicates an underlying issue, such as a refrigerant leak. Your AC should have enough refrigerant to last its entire lifespan, so if you find that your losing refrigerant, then you definitely have a leak on your hands. Refrigerant can be dangerous, so it's something you will want to have checked out as soon as possible.
2. Screeching or Screaming
Usually, if you hear a screeching or screaming sound it is likely due to an issue with either the fan motor or your compressor. The best thing you can do is turn off your AC unit and contact a professional right away. Allowing your air conditioner to continue to run can only cause more damage, so it's best you leave it off until a professional can take a look.
3. Banging or Clanking
Usually if you hear banging or clanking coming from your air conditioner, it’s due to a loose part. This could be a loose component, a broken fan belt, or something else. Usually, something like this is a simple repair if addressed quickly. Letting it go could worsen things, though. That being said, it's best if you have a technician inspect the unit for you, pinpoint exactly where the sound is coming from and what's causing it, and then repair or replace the loose part.
4. Rattling
While a rattling noise can be pretty annoying, it’s usually a pretty easy fix luckily. More than likely, there’s a rock or some other debris that has fallen inside your unit that has caused this rattling noise when the fans turn on. Another cause could be due to the fan coming loose. A technician should be able to come to your home and find the loose screw or component, and get things tightened up for you. If debris isn’t the cause of this noise, and either is a loose fan, then there may be a bigger problem such as structural damage. However, most of the time a rattling noise isn't cause for too much concern.
Contact Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating and Plumbing For All Your AC Needs In Tempe, AZ Today!
Are you in need of AC repair, maintenance, installation or replacement? Contact the pros at Wolfgangs Cooling, Heating, and Plumbing toay. We are here to help with all your air conditioning needs. We’ve been providing superior comfort and quality since 1982. Contact us today at 480-719-7776 or fill out our online form here so a team member can be in touch with you soon.
