During the summer, the sound of the air conditioner is usually just background noise. If you hear anything, it’s just a low hum punctuated by the occasional clicking when the unit turns on or off. If the air conditioner is making noises beyond that, it usually means there’s a problem with the system that needs professional attention.
The AC repair team at Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning is familiar with the most common issues and can diagnose an unusual noise and fix it in no time. To help you diagnose the problem and know when to call a professional, we have listed seven of the most common air conditioner noises, what they mean, and how we repair them.
- Banging
- Hissing
- Squealing
- Buzzing
- Clicking
- Rattling
- Bubbling
Banging
A loud banging sound coming from the air conditioner while it’s running usually means there’s an issue with the compressor, the part that distributes refrigerant through the unit to remove heat from the air. This most often occurs when the AC unit is reaching the end of its lifespan, and the banging means that a part inside the compressor is loose or detached. Sometimes it’s a loose fan blade on either the interior or exterior blower fan, or it could be a loose piston pin or connector rod.
If the air conditioner is making noises because of a loose fan blade, an AC repair technician in Virginia Beach, VA can usually tighten or replace it to solve the issue. When the problem is an unattached component inside the compressor, the best solution is usually to invest in a new unit. Manufacturers don’t engineer compressors for disassembly, so an AC repair may be difficult (and expensive) or impossible.
Hissing
If it sounds like there’s a snake inside your air conditioner every time it turns on, it’s likely due to a refrigerant leak or a faulty compressor valve. In either case, you need a certified technician to investigate and make AC repairs in Virginia Beach, VA. After fixing the leak, the tech will recharge the system with fresh refrigerant to ensure there’s enough to cool your home.
Squealing
Sometimes a hissing sound precedes squealing, which means the pressure inside the compressor is too high, and the unit needs immediate professional attention. Continuing to operate the unit when this happens is actually dangerous, so turn off the AC and call for help when you notice a hissing sound followed by a short squealing noise.
It’s more likely that the squealing noise is the result of a malfunction with one of the fans. Older air conditioners have belt-driven motors and fans, and over time the belt can slip out of position and cause a squealing sound. In newer units, squealing noises usually indicate worn bearings in the fan motor that need lubrication.
Both issues are avoidable with annual AC maintenance in Norfolk, VA and surrounding areas since the technician will lubricate the bearings and inspect the fan belt to ensure it’s in the proper position. In any case, a technician can usually solve the problem quickly by oiling the bearings or replacing the worn parts.
Buzzing Noises
If your air conditioner is making noises that sound like buzzing, the issue could be one of several things.
When the sound comes from the indoor unit, the most likely cause is ice on the coils. A dirty air filter that prevents proper air circulation through the unit or a refrigerant leak can cause ice to form on the coils. Before calling for AC repair in Chesapeake, VA, turn off the unit, let the ice thaw, and change the air filter to improve airflow; if the coils freeze again, then call for professional help.
When the sound comes from the outdoor compressor unit, you need to schedule a professional AC repair. The issue might be electrical, a faulty compressor fan or motor, or issues with the isolation feet that hold the unit in place, so you need a technician to find the problem and determine a solution.
Clicking Noises
Clicking noises when the AC turns on and off are normal. Repeated clicking sounds are not and usually mean a problem with the thermostat. A Miller’s AC repair professional can diagnose a malfunctioning thermostat and install a new one if necessary.
Rattling Noises
Sometimes, an ongoing rattling noise is simply due to a stick or other debris caught in the outdoor unit, and all you need to do to solve the problem is pull it out. Keeping the area around the outdoor unit clear and free of vegetation helps keep this from becoming an ongoing issue.
If the outdoor compressor doesn’t have any debris stuck in it, but the air conditioner is still making noises, it’s possible there is an electrical issue, such as damaged connections inside the unit. We recommend having a Miller’s professional take a look as soon as possible to prevent permanent damage to the compressor components.
Bubbling Noises
Your air conditioner should never sound like it’s blowing bubbles, so if you hear anything that sounds like bubbling water, call a professional right away to prevent further damage. In most cases, these noises indicate excess moisture caused by a problem with the drain line, like a clog, crack, or hole. Replacing the drain line or clearing the blockage will solve the problem and stop the noise.
Get Fast AC Repair in Virginia Beach
The last thing you need during a hot and humid Virginia Beach summer is a malfunctioning AC, so keep Miller’s Heating and Air Conditioning in your contacts so you can call for fast repairs when you need them. Our friendly and experienced AC technicians can diagnose any AC problem and make effective and budget-friendly repairs so you can feel cool and comfortable all season long.
Many of the most common air conditioner issues are preventable with regular AC maintenance in Virginia Beach, VA. Talk to us about annual service plans to keep your equipment in top condition and avoid having to call when your air conditioner is making noises. We’ll make sure your AC works 24/7. Call us today at (757) 623-6600 to learn more about service plans or to get help with AC repairs in Virginia Beach, VA and surrounding areas when you need them.