Modern air conditioners are made to operate quietly so you can’t even tell they’re on. When your unit begins to make odd noises, it could be crying for help, and it’s important to answer the call if you want to prevent a costly problem. Issues such as loose parts and malfunctioning components can create unusual and disruptive sounds. If you hear any of the following, it may be time for HVAC repair.

Why Your AC Is Making These Strange Noises

1. Banging

When you hear banging, it’s usually due to loose parts in the compressor, which is the unit that delivers refrigerant throughout the system to cool your home. Components often become detached in older air conditioners from gradual wear and tear and start to move around, thudding against the outer shell. In other cases, there may be an imbalance with the indoor air blower. Either case may call for a repair or complete replacement of the compressor. 

2. Screeching

No one wants to hear anything that sounds like nails on a chalkboard coming from their AC. A faulty indoor or outdoor fan motor is the likely culprit of this strange noise. These parts remove heat and distribute cool air, which moves through the ducts. When they start to break down, you can hear squealing through the passageways as they attempt to operate. A damaged blower wheel or fan belt can also be to blame for the sounds.

3. Humming

Electrical problems can be behind the humming sound you keep hearing from your AC system. There may be a defect with the contactor relay switch, which is supposed to initiate the outdoor condenser unit when the thermostat is set. Instead of turning on, it may produce a slight vibration, signaling loose wiring. Getting HVAC repairs is necessary since the air conditioner can’t operate under these conditions and could sustain worse damage.

4. Buzzing

A number of factors can create buzzing sounds, and it can become a guessing game when trying to figure out the source. They can be caused by something as simple as debris stuck in the outdoor or indoor units to a refrigerant leak, which is a major issue that is toxic to you and the environment.

Other reasons include loose parts, a clogged air filter, malfunctioning blower, obstructed copper lines, and dirty condenser coils. Whatever the cause, buzzing shouldn’t be ignored, and it’s beneficial to get your HVAC system examined right away before the issue escalates.

If you hear any of these noises coming from your air conditioner and need HVAC repair, reach out to VENT Heating and Cooling. Located in Hinckley, OH, the expert technicians can detect the issue and efficiently perform any repairs necessary to get your system up and running smoothly. For an appointment, call (440) 785-2629. Visit their website to learn more about services.