Summer is here and your air conditioner is about to be the hero of your home. Unfortunately, before the warm weather arrives, many people encounter significant problems with their air conditioner unit, including some strange and loud noises.
While many don’t look at this as a big problem, it’s important to act quickly should you encounter any of these noises. As a homeowner, you should know what these mean and how to rectify the problem. Here are some of the more common noises you may hear coming from your air conditioner and what may cause them to occur.
Loud Clicking
If you hear your air conditioner making loud clicking noises, it could mean multiple problems, depending on when the clicking sounds start. In some instances, the clicking will occur and the air conditioner won’t start, or the clicking will occur while the unit is running.
If the air conditioner is clicking loudly and the unit won’t turn on, it could mean that there is an electrical problem. This may include issues involving the capacitor, the compressor, or the thermostat.
If the air conditioner is clicking when the unit is on and running, there may be something in the fan in the outside unit. You may hear the sound getting faster and louder just as the unit turns on. Check your outside unit’s fan and if there is an obstruction, simply remove it and turn the AC back on.
Clanking and Banging
Loud clanking, banging, and knocking noises can occur in the outdoor unit and it could indicate the fan is hitting something. There’s a possibility that there is an object in the way of the fan or that the fan has loosened and the blades are hitting the protective cage.
Don’t continue running the air conditioner as it could result in even bigger issues. Call out our team and get the help you need to fix the fan quickly.
Gurgling and Bubbling
If you turn on your air conditioner and you hear loud bubbling or gurgling noises, but you don’t know where the sound is coming from, it can be a bit of a problem involving your drain line or the refrigerant leaking.
If it is the condensate drain line causing the sounds, it may be an easy thing for you to look into. However, if your refrigerant is leaking or there is another issue, you should leave the job to a professional.
Screaming and Screeching
The first sound may be a high-pitched screaming sound that almost comes off as a loud hiss. It comes from the outside unit and lasts for about 15 seconds after turning on. In these instances, the most likely cause is high pressure in the compressor.
The screeching can sound like metal on metal and the unit may shut off completely. This could be an indicator that the bearings on the fan motor are completely bad and it may be time for a complete fan motor replacement.
Squealing
A loud squealing noise can occur whenever the air, heat, or fan is on. This could be an indicator that the belt for the fan is worn down or misaligned. You shouldn’t run the air conditioner for long with this type of problem as the belt may break and you will be without air.
For three decades, our team at Woodward Heating Air Plumbing has served the Salem area with the highest quality service to keep their air conditioner running correctly and efficiently.
We can come out and speak with you about your problem, present you with a solution to help you fix your air conditioner, and get the job done right. When you have an issue with your air conditioner, get it fixed with our Salem air conditioning experts. We’re here to keep you comfortable for the summer.
Need a service? Call us today at (503) 739-8035.
