A well-tuned and efficiently running air conditioner should be quiet. So if yours is making an unusual noise of any kind, you’ll want to get to the root of it and have it repaired. Not only will you avoid a breakdown during Sacramento’s hot summer months, but a noisy air conditioning unit isn’t running as efficiently as it should. That means less cool comfort and higher utility bills.
The list below sounds a lot like a horror-movie soundtrack, but it’s a collection of all the strange sounds an air conditioning unit can make when it’s in distress. Is your air conditioner making any of this racket?
No Noise Is Good Noise When It Comes to Your AC
Beware of these sounds or anything like them. They’re a sure sign of trouble for your air conditioning unit. If you’re hearing any of them, you should call a professional air conditioner technician to investigate and rectify the situation as soon as possible.
1. Banging
A banging sound from within your air conditioning unit is probably due to a part that’s come loose. It could be small, like a nut or bolt, or something larger, such as a dislodged motor mount, but it shouldn’t stay loose as it could cause much larger problems down the road.
2. Squealing
A loose or damaged belt can cause a squealing noise. This is normally an inexpensive repair, but it’s important, because if your belt breaks, your blower won’t turn.
3. Humming
Humming can be caused by a failing capacitor or a bad motor. Sometimes loose parts, electrical problems or refrigerant piping can cause a humming sound. All of these possibilities should be addressed before they lead to larger problems for your unit.
4. Clicking or Rattling
This may be caused by loose hardware or a failing motor, a failing thermostat or another electrical issue. Due to the many electrical components in your unit, it’s important to have this looked at quickly.
5. Slapping
A slapping sound, similar to the sound made during a game of cards, may indicate something is stuck in the blower blades. Anything that interferes with the smooth operation of your unit will take a toll on its efficiency as well as its life expectancy.
6. Screaming or Whistling
If you hear a sound like screaming or a high-pitched whistle coming from your unit, shut it off right away and call for repairs. It could be a refrigerant leak or high internal pressure within your unit. Some units may automatically shut off in this case as a safety measure.
Maintenance is the Key to Quiet AC
Everything breaks down eventually, and your air conditioning unit is no exception. But you can take proactive measures to ensure you minimize the chances of your AC needing repair or running into catastrophic failure when you can least do without its cool relief from the heat.
A maintenance agreement will ensure your air conditioner is running at peak efficiency. You can avoid breakdowns and prolong the life of your equipment by signing up for one of our maintenance options, made to fit any budget. Once you’ve signed up, you can rest assured that your AC is in good hands. We’ll automatically schedule your cleaning and tuneup before the heat hits, so you’ll stay cool and comfortable all summer.
And if it turns out that you’re in need of AC replacement, Brower has you covered with professional AC installation. Our courteous and knowledgeable technicians will ensure the proper size and installation of your new unit for the best in home comfort and energy efficiency.