As the summer months approach and you turn on your air conditioner, you may begin to notice sounds you hadn’t before. In some cases, these sounds may begin to fade into the background as the system continues to run. However, some sounds coming from your air conditioner may be a sign that there is a problem in the system.
But how do you learn which sounds are normal and which might mean you have a larger problem on your hands? Our team at R&D Heating and Air understands any sound your air conditioner may make and whether they are cause for concern. In this blog, we’ll discuss the most common sounds to provide you with peace of mind while the system runs.
Do Sounds Coming From Your Air Conditioner Indicate a Problem?
If you hear sounds coming from your air conditioner, you might worry that this is a sign of a larger problem within the system. While unfamiliar sounds may be coming from the system, this doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem with your air conditioner. In fact, it isn’t uncommon for your air conditioner to make noises while functioning normally.
One reason you may be hearing more noise than you have in the past is that you’ve replaced the system recently. When you are accustomed to a specific system, you may begin to subconsciously block the standard noises it makes. Once a new, more energy efficient system is installed, you may begin to hear sounds coming from your air conditioner that you aren’t accustomed to.
However, not all sounds coming from your air conditioner are created equal, and they may indicate problems within the system. In many cases, it is in your best interest to reach out to a trusted HVAC professional
Understanding Sounds Coming From Your Air Conditioner
One way to grow accustomed to the sounds coming from your air conditioner is by being able to decode them. Air conditioners make a variety of noises while functioning, but there are a few sounds that may indicate problems within your system. Some of the most common air conditioner sounds include:
1. Wooshing
When your air conditioner turns on, you may hear a wooshing sound reminiscent of a plane taking off. While you might think this indicates a problem, it is a normal noise that the system makes as it turns on and begins throwing air throughout your home. This wooshing noise may begin to subside as your ductwork expands from the air and isn’t any cause for concern.
2. Soft Clicking
As your system runs and your home reaches your desired temperature, you may hear soft clicking sounds coming from your air conditioner. You may even hear this sound several times throughout the day. However, this clicking noise is an indication that the system is turning off, and you shouldn’t worry about it.
3. Hissing
Your refrigerant runs through coils in your air conditioner, helping to keep your home cool throughout the day. If you hear hissing sounds coming from your air conditioner, this may be a sign that there is a hole in the coil. This requires replacement to ensure your home is cool and your energy bills don’t rise as you try to cool your space.
4. Squealing
If your air conditioner is making a squealing noise, this may indicate that the system is under a great deal of pressure. This pressure can cause permanent damage if you choose to ignore it. When you hear the squealing, it is essential that you turn off the system and reach out to a trusted HVAC professional as soon as possible for repairs.
5. Buzzing
In some cases, buzzing sounds coming from your air conditioner might mean your system is frozen. However, if the system isn’t frozen, it may mean there is an electrical problem with the system. Check to see if the system is frozen, and if it isn’t, turn it off immediately and reach out to your HVAC team to make any necessary repairs.
6. Rattling
If there are any loose components in your air conditioner, you may begin to hear rattling. While you might not think this is a problem, loose parts can fall off and damage other parts of the system. If you are too weary about tightening parts within your air conditioner, contact your HVAC professional for maintenance. During this appointment, they can tighten these loose parts.
Addressing Sounds Coming From Your Air Conditioner in Roy, Utah
If you hear sounds coming from your air conditioner and you believe they might indicate a problem within the system, reach out to our team at R&D Heating and Air. With over two decades of experience in the HVAC industry, our team can identify the cause of the sounds and make quick repairs, allowing you to return to everyday activities without the hassle of intrusive noises.
In addition to caring for your home’s air conditioning unit, we also provide duct cleaning, gas fireplace repairs, and much more to ensure Roy, Utah, homeowners are comfortable in their space all year long. If you would like to discuss sounds coming from your air conditioner with our team or you have any questions for us, don’t hesitate to contact us today.
