Why Is My AC So Loud?

Concerned why your once quiet AC is now surprisingly noisy? Wondering whether it’s an easy fix or a major problem? For Beaumont, Efficient Systems is offering AC maintenance, answers to the above questions, and professional ac repair or replacement.

Problems Your AC Might Have

As there are many parts to an AC unit, one can be loud for a multitude of reasons. Below are some problems that might be the reason your AC is making abnormal noises. The solutions for how to address these problems have also been given:

Problem: The refrigerant lining is too tight.

• Solution: Call an HVAC technician to adjust the AC.

Problem: The motor system has a loose piece of hardware stuck in it.

• Solution: Call an experienced technician ASAP.

Problem: The motor is failing.

• Solution: Call a professional to prevent further damage or disconnection.

Problem: Isolation padding, which is used to ensure a quiet ac by absorbing noise produced by internal parts, is crumbling and breaking.

• Solution: Replacement is needed.

Outdoor Unit Problems

If none of the above problems are the reason behind your loud ac, there might be a problem with your outdoor unit:

Problem: A small piece of debris is stuck in the outdoor AC’s compressor fan, resulting in a loud rattling sound.

• Solution: Turn off the unit and remove the obstruction, carefully checking condenser coils, compressor, and fan for any damage.

Problem: The compressor is old or malfunctioning.

• Solution: An AC replacement is needed.

Indoor Unit Problems

No problems with the outdoor unit? Try checking the indoor unit:

Problem: The blower motor is old or malfunctioning.

• Solution: An AC replacement is needed.

Problem: The belt is worn or misaligned, causing a squeal that varies as different temperatures and humidity levels cause the belt to expand or contract.

• Solution: A repair or replacement is needed.

Other Possible Problems

If the noise you hear isn’t because of your AC, there could be problems elsewhere, such as in your ductwork, heat pump, or indoor furnace.

Ductwork

A quiet rush of air is normal, however, a loud hiss often means that coolant is leaking and the ducts are improperly sealed.

• Solution: This requires immediate attention from an HVAC team.

Heat Pump

Trumpeting or hissing coming from the compressor motor when the heat pump is turned off indicates that the internal refrigerant valve is leaking.

• Solution: Schedule a repair with a specialist.

Indoor Furnace

A squealing or screeching noise coming from your furnace means that the belt or motor bearing is malfunctioning.

• Solution A: Correct the lubricating oil that is being used.
• Solution B: Call a professional for an inexpensive repair.

If there is a banging sound, shut the furnace off immediately.

• Solution: A large piece of the furnace needs to be checked and replaced immediately

A noise that can only be described as “thwapping” indicates that something is stuck in the blower fans. This isn’t dangerous but can hinder the motor’s lifespan.

• Solution: Shut off the blower and carefully remove the blockage.

Clicking usually occurs when the system is turned on and off. However, clicking coming from the control panel or outside compressor isn’t normal.

• Solution: Reset the system.

If there is a vibrating sound, the motor is most likely off-balanced.

• Solution: Call a professional ASAP.

If you have a gas or oil-fired system, rumbling noises could be associated with combustion.

• Solution: Call for services immediately.

Short, high-pitched chirping means that two parts are rubbing together without proper lubrication.

• Solution: If the chirping stops, the issue is minor. Inform an HVAC technician during your next maintenance service. If the sound doesn’t go away or turns into a squeal, call an expert.

Contact The Pros at Efficient Systems

Reach out to the professionals at Efficient Systems today and finally get an answer on why your AC is so noisy. Be sure to keep a sharp ear out for any odd noises and keep your HVAC unit safe with regular inspections.