All air conditioning units make some noise even when new and efficient. It’s usually a low-key hum that doesn’t interfere with your daily life. It’s even soothing to some people. However, it’s annoying and worrying when the unit makes strange, loud, or consistent noises. Loud noises are the AC’s way of letting you know something is wrong.
In some cases, the problem is minor and easy to fix. At times, the noise could indicate a bigger problem that will require the help of an experienced HVAC technician. Contact a nearby air conditioning service to have someone take a look if unsure about the issue. Here are six of the most common reasons your AC unit is noisy.
Your AC Unit is Getting Older
Like any other appliance in your home, your AC unit will show its age after a few years of use. Parts will start to wear out and won’t be as efficient as before. Loose, worn out, or unbalanced parts cause your AC unit to make strange noises.
The only solution is to replace the old AC with a new one. Changing the parts is only an expensive short-term solution. You’ll also experience hiked utility bills, uneven cooling, and frequent breakdowns.
Your AC Unit is Dirty
A dirty air conditioner can also be the reason for strange noises. Over time, dust, pollen, and other particles will accumulate on the filters, coils, and fins. These parts need cleaning to function correctly.
Dirt restricts airflow, and the parts must work harder, leading to strange noises. Schedule regular cleaning and maintenance visits with an HVAC technician to prevent this. Have the filter replaced every three months, the coils cleaned, and the outside unit cleared of debris at least once a year.
The Coils are Frozen
The coils draw heat out of the air. When they freeze, the AC unit stops working and makes strange noises. The primary cause is low refrigerant levels, which an AC technician can fix. They will recharge the unit and if there are any leaks, repair them. It’s a common problem that’s easily fixed but can cause extensive damage to a system if unchecked.
The Condenser is Loud
The condenser is the large outdoor unit of the AC system and contains the compressor, coils, and a fan. The fan circulates air and becomes dirty or damaged over time. When this happens, it will make strange noises as it tries to work. The fan may also become unbalanced, causing the unit to vibrate and be very loud.
An experienced AC technician can clean the fan and get it working correctly. Clearing any debris around the unit helps. Also, leveling it fixes the unbalanced fan and reduces noise.
The Ductwork is Leaking
Sometimes, the ductwork and not the AC unit cause the noises. If you hear clicking, banging, or rattling, it’s likely the ductwork. Whistling means there’s a hole or crack somewhere that needs sealing. These sounds are the result of air moving through the ducts and escaping.
The leaks put extra strain on the AC unit and will increase your utility bills. Have an HVAC technician look and repair the holes in the ductwork. As they carry out the exercise, have all the vents cleaned.
The Ventilation System is Blocked
A blockage in the ventilation system can also lead to noisy operations. If you have a central AC unit, the vents are in different rooms of your house. They can be blocked by furniture, carpets, or other items.
This causes the air to back up and create strange noises. To fix the problem, move the furniture or other items blocking the vents. You can also use a vacuum cleaner to remove debris blocking the vents.
Don’t Ignore Strange Noises
There are many reasons why your AC unit may be noisy. It may be due to a simple problem you can quickly fix, like moving the furniture or cleaning the vents. However, it could also be a sign of a more severe issue requiring the help of an experienced AC technician. Regardless of the cause, address the issue immediately to prevent further damage.
