If your once quiet AC is now uncharacteristically loud, you’ll probably wonder why. The problems behind a loud AC can either be an easy fix or a serious problem requiring professional AC repair. Straight Shooter Heating and Cooling has compiled a list of possible reasons why your AC is chirping, hissing, or squealing. Azle AC maintenance and, if necessary, AC repair and replacement are also offered.

Issues With Air Conditioners

As air conditioners have many different components, one can be loud for a multitude of reasons. This includes problems with the motor, such as a piece of hardware coming loose or the motor failing. Call an experienced technician for repair when there’s a loose piece of hardware or when the motor is failing to prevent disconnection or damage. Buzzing indicates your AC unit is most likely wearing down due to old age, meaning you should start looking for a replacement.

Refrigerant lining being too tight can be another possible cause of a loud AC. If this is the case, call an HVAC technician and have them adjust the air conditioner to resolve the issue.

Normally, isolation padding is used to absorb any noise produced by internal parts such as the fan. However, it does wear over time, crumbling, breaking and increasing noise levels, thereby requiring replacement.

Problems With Your Outdoor or Indoor Unit

If none of the above problems seem to be responsible for your loud AC, there could be problems within the outdoor or indoor unit.

A loud outdoor unit might mean the compressor is bad due to age or malfunction, making replacement necessary. Rattling can occur if something is stuck in the outdoor ACs compressor fan. If this is the case, turn off the unit and remove the obstruction. Afterward, check the condenser coils, compressor and fan for any damage, scheduling professional AC repair if necessary.

One noisy issue the indoor unit can have is the blower motor being old or malfunctioning, requiring replacement. Additionally, a worn or misaligned belt can cause squealing that varies as different temperatures and humidity levels cause it to expand and contract.

Other Common Problems

If there are no problems with your AC, there could be problems elsewhere, including the ductwork, heat pump, and indoor furnace.

Problems With Your Ductwork

A quiet rush of air indicates that the ductwork is functioning properly. However, be aware of hissing ductwork: this indicates leaking coolant and improperly sealed ducts. These problems require the immediate attention of an HVAC team.

Problems With Your Heat Pump

Schedule a repair with a specialist if your compressor motor is trumpeting or hissing. Hearing either of these sounds when the heat pump is being shut off means that an internal refrigerant valve is leaking.

Problems With Your Indoor Furnace

When it comes to indoor furnaces, some problems are more dangerous than others. That being said, some problems can be fixed by DIY solutions and some require a specialist’s help.

Less Dangerous Problems

A squeal or screech means that there are problems with the belt or motor bearing. To fix these problems, correct the lubricating oil. If this is ineffective, call a professional and schedule a repair.

If something is stuck in the fan blades, you will hear something that sounds like “thwapping.” While this isn’t necessarily dangerous, it can hinder the lifespan of the motor. If you hear this sound, shut off the blower and carefully remove the blockage.

Though clicking is typically heard when shutting the system on and off, such a sound shouldn’t come from the control panel or outside compressor. If it does, reset the system.

Short, high-pitched chirping means two parts are rubbing together without proper lubrication. Pay attention: if the chirping goes away, the issue is minor, however, you should still inform an HVAC technician during your next maintenance visit. If it doesn’t go away, turns into a squeal or both, call an expert and have the system examined.

More Dangerous Problems

Shut the entire furnace off if you hear banging. This indicates that a large part of it needs to be checked and replaced immediately. Additionally, vibrating means the motor is most likely off-balanced, requiring you to call a specialist ASAP.

In gas or oil-fired systems, rumbling can be associated with combustion. If you think this is the case, shut off the unit and immediately call for services.

Determine What’s Causing The Noise And Keep Your System Working

To maintain your AC systems lifespan, keep a sharp ear out for any odd noises and have regular HVAC inspections. After determining what is causing your loud AC, use the information above to find the appropriate solution. If you can fix the problem yourself, do so, if not, contact the professionals at Straight Shooter Heating and Cooling today and schedule AC repair or replacement.