As the summer heat rolls in, the last thing you want is an air conditioner that’s making strange noises. Your AC should hum along quietly, keeping your home cool and comfortable. But if it starts to sound like a heavy metal band, it might be trying to tell you something.
At Premier, we’ve seen it all when it comes to ACs, and we know that unusual sounds can be the first signs of trouble. Let’s break down some of the common noises you might hear from your AC, what they could mean, and when it’s time to contact us for AC repair in Warner Robins, GA.
1. Banging or Clanking
If you hear a banging or clanking noise, it’s often a sign that something is loose or broken inside the unit. This could be a part that has come loose and is hitting other components, or it could be something more serious like a broken motor mount or fan blade. Either way, this is a problem that needs immediate attention. Ignoring it can lead to more damage and a more expensive repair bill.
2. Hissing or Bubbling
A hissing or bubbling noise is usually a sign of a refrigerant leak. Refrigerant is essential for your AC to cool your home, and a leak can reduce its efficiency and lead to higher energy bills. Moreover, refrigerant leaks can be harmful to the environment and your health. Refrigerant leaks are not something you can fix on your own. A professional technician will need to locate the leak, repair it, and recharge your system with the correct amount of refrigerant.
3. Screeching or Squealing
A screeching or squealing noise can be alarming, but it’s often caused by a simple issue. These sounds typically indicate a problem with the fan motor or the blower motor. It could be a lack of lubrication in the motor bearings. It’s best to call a technician in this situation.
4. Clicking
Hearing a clicking noise when your AC turns on and off is normal. However, if the clicking is constant, it could be a sign of an electrical issue. Electrical problems can be tricky and dangerous to handle on your own, so it’s best to leave this to the professionals. Sometimes, the clicking noise can come from the thermostat. Ensure it’s functioning properly and replace the batteries if needed.
5. Rattling
A rattling noise can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from loose parts to debris inside the unit. Over time, parts of your AC can come loose due to regular wear and tear. Additionally, leaves, twigs, or other debris can find their way into the unit and cause rattling.
6. Buzzing
A buzzing noise usually indicates an electrical problem or an issue with the compressor. Electrical issues could range from loose wiring to a failing capacitor, while compressor problems can be more serious and expensive to repair. Electrical issues can be dangerous, so it’s best to turn off the unit and call a technician immediately.
When to Call a Professional
While some minor issues can be addressed with a bit of DIY, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you’re ever unsure about what’s causing a noise, or if you’ve tried simple fixes without success, calling a professional HVAC technician is the best move. At Premier, we’re always ready to help you diagnose and fix any issues with your air conditioner.