Noises AC Units Make Before They Break Down

When you turn on your air conditioning unit, you typically expect some level of noise, whether it’s a clicking from the system turning on and off or a soft whir of the fan blowing cool air throughout your home or business. AC units are generally pretty quiet and have been designed to stay that way. This is why strange, loud noises coming from your AC unit can be so jarring.

Not all sounds coming from your unit are cause for major concern. Some may indicate the need for a quick part replacement, while others are signs that you’ll need major AC repair in Fair Oaks, CA. It’s important that you understand the different noises your AC unit might make so you’ll know when to take immediate action to prevent a breakdown:

• Banging or clanking: One of the most common sounds is a loud banging or clanking from the AC compressor. If you hear a banging noise, it’s usually indicative of a loose or broken part in the compressor that will need to be repaired. The noise might also be coming from a part that is unbalanced, such as the fan blades hitting other parts.
• Clicking: Clicking noises are typically caused by electrical components in your AC unit. Most often, it has to do with a defective control or thermostat failure. If you only hear a click when the unit turns on or off, don’t worry; these noises are only a problem if they happen often when the system is running.
• Hissing or whistling: If you hear a high-pitched whistling or hissing sound, you might be facing a refrigerant leak. Turn off the unit immediately and call for AC repair in Fair Oaks, CA. The sound might also be from high internal pressure, which can also be dangerous.
• Squealing: Squealing sounds are typically caused by fan and blower motors when they are going bad. You might have a failing blower belt that simply needs to be replaced, which is relatively easy and inexpensive. Squealing sounds that only occur when the system starts to run might indicate that the compressor needs to be replaced.
• Thwapping: If you hear a “thwap” sound while the AC unit is running, it usually means there is debris like twigs or leave stuck in the blower blades. You’ll want to have this checked out as soon as possible and make sure no more debris is able to enter the system.
• Humming: Humming noises are usually caused by less serious issues like a slightly loose part causing vibration. However, while the repair might be easy and quick, it doesn’t mean you should delay, because loose parts can cause more damage if unaddressed.

If you’re hearing strange noises when you run your AC unit, make sure to pay attention and call an HVAC contractor right away. While many noises are indicative of easy-to-solve problems, letting them go unaddressed can cause further damage or total system breakdown over time.

If you are in need of AC repair in Fair Oaks, CA, call Cassel Air Conditioning and Heating Service. Our experts have served residential and commercial clients with HVAC installation and repair for over 25 years, and we look forward to assisting you soon!

Categorised in: AC Repair

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