It’s always a little unsettling when your normally quiet air conditioner starts making strange noises, especially if you’re not sure what they mean.
There are several potential causes of loud noises coming from an air conditioner, from loose bolts or a dirty air filter to more severe problems like a failing compressor. If you notice any strange noises coming from your air conditioner, it’s essential to have it checked out by a qualified technician right away.
In most cases, the noises are nothing to worry about and can be fixed with a simple tune-up or cleaning. However, in some cases, they could indicate a more serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately.
If you hear a strange noise from your air conditioner, don’t wait until your air con’s not working – track down the cause as soon as possible, or call a professional AC technician to troubleshoot.
Read on to learn about these unusual air con sounds, how to fix them, and when to call a professional.
Why is My Air Conditioner Making a Strange Noise?
There are several reasons why your air conditioner might start making strange noises.
In most cases, the problem is relatively minor and can be fixed with a simple tune-up or cleaning. However, in some cases, the noise could indicate a more serious problem that you must address immediately.
Some of the most common causes of strange air conditioner noises include:
- Dirty coils – The coils in your air conditioner can become dirty over time, which can cause them to vibrate and make noise. A professional air con technician can quickly clean dirty coils, removing the sound and improving the unit’s performance.
- Loose bolts – If the bolts holding your air conditioner unit together are loose, they can rattle and make noise. Loose bolts can cause additional wear to the unit if left unchecked, which is why it’s important to have them addressed when you notice it.
- Dirty air filter – A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the unit to work harder and make noise. A dirty air filter will make a hissing sound and can be fixed by cleaning or replacing the filter.
- Malfunctioning fan – If the fan in your air conditioner is not working correctly, it can make a variety of strange noises. The air conditioner fan is an integral part of the system and should be addressed immediately.
Keep reading to learn how to troubleshoot the noise coming from your air conditioning unit.
What are the Most Common Types of Air Conditioner Noises?
Here are ten of the most common air conditioner noises and what they mean:
1. Hissing, Whooshing or Popping Noises
A hissing noise coming from your air conditioner is usually nothing serious and is often caused by dirty coils or loose bolts. However, if the noise is accompanied by leaking refrigerant, it could be a sign of a more serious problem that needs to be addressed right away. Either way, it demands attention from a professional.
2. Buzzing Noises
Buzzing noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by loose bolts or a malfunctioning fan. If the noise is accompanied by vibration, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
3. Clanking or Banging Noises
Clanking noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by loose bolts or mismatched components. Similar to buzzing, if you feel your AC unit vibrating, the problem is more urgent as it could cause damage.
4. Rattling Noises
Rattling noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by loose bolts or a dirty air filter. Similar to a clanking or banging sound, if your air conditioner is rattling and you can feel the unit vibrating, it’s essential to consult an expert technician for an assessment.
5. Squealing or Screeching Noises
Squealing noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by a malfunctioning fan. Squealing or screeching noises may sound scary, but they can be very manageable if you have a technician look at it as you notice the sound.
6. Whining Noises
Whining noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by a malfunctioning fan. Fan replacements and repairs aren’t too expensive or difficult to do as long as they are caught early before the fan wears down inside the unit.
7. Bubbling or Gurgling Noises
Bubbling noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by dirty coils or a clogged drain line. If the noise is accompanied by your air conditioner leaking water, it could be a sign of a more serious problem that needs to be addressed right away.
8. Grinding Noises
Grinding noises coming from your air conditioner are usually, but not exclusively, caused by a malfunctioning fan. If your air conditioner is making grinding noises, it’s important to turn it off and have an air conditioner technician inspect it as soon as possible.
9. Loud Roaring Noises
Loud roaring noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by a failing compressor. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed right away.
10. Clicking Noises
Clicking noises coming from your air conditioner are usually caused by loose bolts or a malfunctioning fan. Issues causing clicking noises can wear down the internal components of your air conditioner, so it’s best to have it looked at by a professional sooner rather than later.
If your air conditioner is making any of these strange noises, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional right away. Ignoring the problem could lead to further damage and costly repairs.
Should I Be Concerned if My Air Conditioner Is Making Strange Noises?
If your air conditioner is making strange noises, it’s probably not an urgent safety risk to you, but it could be bad news for your air con unit. This means you’ll need to get a professional technician to have a look at it before the unit does damage to itself.
What Do I Do if My Air Conditioner Is Making Strange Noises?
If you’re hearing any strange noises coming from your air conditioner, it’s important to have it checked out by a professional right away. Ignoring unusual noises coming from your air conditioner can turn a minor service into an expensive replacement.
Related Questions
Should You Be Able to Hear Your Air Conditioner?
Air conditioners do contain a running motor, so while they’re designed to be quiet, they do still make a noise when operating. This is similar to the sound that comes from an idling car. However, if your air conditioner is much louder than usual, or the sound it makes has changed, your unit may have a problem.
How Long Does an Air Conditioner Last?
Air conditioners typically last around 10 to 15 years. However, this can vary depending on the type and quality of the unit and how well it’s been maintained.
Does an Air Conditioner Compressor Make Noise?
Yes, an air conditioner’s compressor does make a sound while running, but it shouldn’t exceed the manufacturer’s decibel rating. If an air con compressor is making excessive noise, it could be damaged, or a component could be loose. An air conditioning technician will be to identify the sound and repair it before it becomes a more expensive issue to fix.
Disclaimer:
This article is published in good faith and for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute an estimate or quote for any specific service. Platinum Power & Air does not make any warranties about the ongoing completeness, reliability and accuracy of this information. This article is not intended to replace consultation with a licensed technician.
