When your AC starts making noises, it’s easy to panic. You don’t want your air conditioner to die on you in the middle of the summer, and strange AC noises can be the first sign of a problem. But while many loud noises coming from your AC can indicate a problem, some noises are totally normal.
Today, we’re going to break down some of the most common noises air conditioners make and let you know which noises are normal, and which are cause for concern.
Normal AC Noises
A lot of the time, your AC making noise is normal. Here are some AC sounds you might hear that you don’t have to worry about:
Clicking Noise
When your air conditioner starts or ends a cooling cycle, it’s common to hear a clicking noise. Your air conditioner has an internal switch that will flip on and off to start and stop it from running. You might be able to hear the switch click into place from time to time, especially when you adjust your thermostat settings.
Loud, repetitive clicking, however, is not normal. If your air conditioner is making a constant clicking noise, you should call an AC company like Worley’s for help.
Blowing or Whooshing Noise
It’s normal to hear a low, steady blowing or whooshing sound while your air conditioner is running. This is the sound of cool air being blown through your ducts and into your living spaces, and it should be quiet enough to fade into the background.
Loud Outdoor AC Unit
Most outdoor AC units make noise when they run, and it’s typically nothing to worry about. If your outside AC is making loud noises that you can hear inside your home, however, it could be cause for concern. An experienced AC technician from Worley’s Home Services will be able to tell you whether there’s a problem with your unit.
AC Noises You Shouldn’t Ignore
Although some air conditioner noises are normal, there are also many sounds that indicate a serious problem. If you hear any of the following sounds coming from your AC, you need to schedule air conditioner repair with Worley’s as soon as possible:
Buzzing Noise
There are a number of issues that could cause your air conditioner to make a buzzing noise. Problems with the motor are the most common cause of buzzing noises, but this sound could also be caused by a faulty compressor, electrical issues, a clogged condenser coil, or loose fan blades. Worley’s can diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution.
Squealing Noise
A high-pitched screeching or squealing noise is often caused by bearings that need lubrication or a loose fan belt. A worn-out blower wheel or fan motor may also make a squealing noise. Worley’s AC technicians check for all these issues and more during your routine AC maintenance visit.
In some cases, internal pressure build-up can cause an intense squealing noise. This is extremely dangerous and warrants emergency AC repair. If you suspect pressure build-up, shut your air conditioner off immediately and call Worley’s for help.
Pulsating Noise
If a part has come loose in your outdoor AC unit, you might hear a pulsating or thumping sound. In most cases, locating and tightening the loose part will solve the problem. However, if you ignore it for too long, a loose part can bump into or grind up against other parts, damaging your air conditioner. To prevent serious damage, call Worley’s to fix your AC fast.
Whistling Noise
A high-pitched whistling or screaming noise is not something you want to ignore. This type of noise usually indicates a refrigerant leak, which is dangerous. If this is the case, your air conditioner may turn itself off quickly after turning on. This is a built-in safety feature that’s protecting you and your equipment from harm. Turn the unit off and call Worley’s for help!
Get Expert AC Help in all of Hampton Roads from Worley’s
If your AC is sometimes loud and you’re not sure what to do about the noise, call Worley’s Home Services! We are a local HVAC company with many years of experience serving homeowners in Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, Norfolk, Gloucester, Yorktown, Chesapeake, and throughout all of Eastern Virginia. We can diagnose and repair your air conditioner, heat pump, or mini split quickly so you can enjoy a cool, comfortable home and a quiet AC.
