A/C Making Weird Noises? What your A/C is Groaning About

When your air conditioner starts making strange and unexpected sounds, it may signal something that needs immediate attention, possibly professional.

Where the Sounds Might Be Coming From

·         If they sound like they’re coming from the ductwork, it’s entirely possible that the issue is in the ductwork. However, ductwork sounds could be echoing through the ducts from elsewhere in the system, or even outside of your A/C altogether. If it is a ductwork sound, it may just be coming from the ducts expanding and contracting.

·         The air handler or blower could be making the noise. If it’s a roaring or hissing, you may have an air leak.

·         Bubbling in the refrigerant piping could be a refrigerant leak. Don’t try to address this issue yourself; get a professional.

·         Sounds from any electrical panels, especially buzzing or crackling, could signify serious electrical issues in need of immediate attention.

·         Clicking sounds from the relays could easily be a faulty thermostat.

·         Squeaking or squealing, especially echoed through the air ducts, could be an issue with indoor air handler fan.

·         If you hear fluttering or scratching sounds from the ducts, it could be an animal trapped inside. Try to figure out if the sounds are steady or erratic; this will help you distinguish a living animal from other possibilities.

·         Rattling could mean something’s loose, whether that be the fan blades, pulley, motor mounts or any other hardware.

What Should You Do?

While some problems are a simple fix, most are going to need a call to a qualified professional. A clanking A/C likely has a loose part that needs to be reattached or replaced. A buzzing could be a failing motor, or it could be a dangerous electrical issue, both of which you should leave to a professional. What’s worse, a hissing refrigerant leak could be dumping chemicals into the air.

When it comes to diagnosing and fixing A/C noises, you can’t find anyone better than CJS Heating & Air. For more information, please contact us today!

Codey Bodine