Air conditioner problems and their resulting noises can rattle system components and your peace of mind in equal measure. When your home should be a respite from the Mount Airy summer heat, a noisy AC unit is inconvenient and disruptive.
Rattling, banging, or other noises also may suggest underlying problems that require attention. Learn how to fix a noisy AC and when it’s time to call a professional for replacement.
Why Is My AC Unit Noisy?
Several issues can cause your AC to make excessive or strange noises, most of which trace back to either aging or insufficient maintenance of the AC system. Maintenance keeps your AC in ideal shape to prevent strain and undue wear on your system’s components, helping to extend its lifespan and ensure its efficiency.
Likewise, a lack of maintenance and the resulting inefficiency and wear can age your system faster, making it more vulnerable to compounding damage and frequent breakdowns. Some AC components wear out before the unit is due for replacement, such as fan belts, insulation, or other parts, all of which can produce an assortment of strange sounds.
Excessive AC noise generally comes down to:
- Loose parts: A common source of AC noise, loose screws, bolts, and other components can rattle or vibrate in your system.
- Refrigerant leaks: Leaking refrigerant lines often create hissing, gurgling, or bubbling sounds.
- Damaged fan or motor: Whether due to worn or poorly-lubricated motor bearings, loose screws, obstructions, a burnt-out motor, or misaligned or damaged fan blades, the AC fan and its motor can produce a variety of sounds.
- Electrical problems: Faulty or damaged relays, contactors, or wiring can cause buzzing, humming, or clicking sounds.
- Dust and debris: Debris in ductwork, around the condenser unit, or other areas may cause banging or similar sounds as it knocks against different parts.
- Ductwork problems: Loose or poorly-installed ductwork can cause rattling or banging noises. Blockages or other airflow restrictions in ducts can produce whistling, whooshing, or other sounds.
Is It Normal for an AC Unit to Make Some Noise?
An AC unit and its connecting ductwork make some noise during operation, but no more than a light and consistent hum. You may also hear an occasional click or clunk as it cycles on and off or brief creaking sounds from the components as they heat up and cool down.
Unusual, persistent, or excessively loud air conditioner noises, however, are less common and may warrant further investigation. If you notice any of the following sounds, your AC system may have hidden problems:
- Banging
- Buzzing
- Squealing
- Whistling
- Screeching
- Hissing
- Clicking
- Grinding
When to Call a Professional for a Noisy AC
The following basic maintenance or DIY fixes can resolve certain kinds of AC noises:
- Replacing air filters: Air filters require replacement approximately every three months or less. A clean air filter often resolves problems related to airflow or debris buildup.
- Tightening loose parts: Check for loose screws or components, and tighten them as needed so they don’t rattle, vibrate, or come completely detached.
- Cleaning the outdoor unit: Spray down the outdoor unit, and remove sticks, dirt, or other debris — these materials can accumulate and interfere with proper AC function, resulting in a noisy AC compressor unit.
- Thawing unit: Check the system’s evaporator, typically located near the air handler, for freezing. Turn off your system until it fully thaws, then turn it back on — if the reset doesn’t resolve freezing problems, you’ll need a technician to investigate more closely.
If you’re unsure about the source of AC noise, call a licensed HVAC technician to prevent further damage. Professionals possess expertise and experience to pinpoint the problem and recommend maintenance, repairs, or replacement. Note any other symptoms you notice and communicate them to your technician ahead of their visit, such as poor airflow, pooling water, or bad odors.
Benefits of Replacing a Noisy AC Unit
AC units generally last 10 to 15 years depending on maintenance, usage, and other factors. After that, replacing your AC unit provides numerous benefits that often outweigh the initial cost.
Quieter operation
A new AC unit won’t come with the strange or disruptive noises that typically accompany old-age wear. Plus, modern AC models may feature designs with sound-dampening technology and other details that reduce the decibels during cooling cycles, reducing disruption to your home.
Improved energy efficiency
AC units lose performance and efficiency as they age, putting higher strain on energy consumption. A modern replacement AC can consume far less energy than an old model. ENERGY STAR-certified units with high seasonal energy efficiency ratios (SEER) can use up to 8% less than other new models. In addition to a reduced carbon footprint, this energy efficiency can also lower your utility bills.
Increased reliability
AC units become more prone to breakdowns as they age and their components wear out. In most cases, they no longer meet the demand for regular use as they did in the past. As opposed to potentially frequent and costly breakdowns of an old unit, new AC units offer improved reliability, and should they break down, manufacturers may cover approved breakdowns within the warranty period.
Enhanced comfort
Modern AC units have evolved to feature comfort-enhancing details, such as variable-speed compressors, filtration systems, and improved humidity control that help to better regulate your home’s air. Many AC replacement models also include convenient features such as smartphone compatibility that allows you to personalize and automate thermostat settings and can notify you of potential problems with diagnostic tools.
Call Jay’s for Disruption-Free Cooling in Mount Airy, NC
Serving the Foothills area of North Carolina and Virginia since 2005, Jay’s is the go-to choice for reliable AC installations, replacements, and repairs. Take advantage of our experienced and fully-licensed team, competitive financing, and other benefits — contact us or book online to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I turn off my AC if it’s making noise?
Not all AC noises indicate an emergency or immediately imminent damage to your system, but some may warrant turning your system off. Make an appointment with an HVAC technician and ask for their insight on your unique situation.
What is the quietest kind of home cooling system?
Cooling systems vary in terms of operation noise depending on the model, tier, your local climate, and other factors. In many cases, however, ductless mini-splits may outperform central AC systems with much lower average decibels.
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