Why is my Air Conditioner Making Noise?

Summers are hot and humid in Southern Ontario, and you can’t afford to let your air conditioner break down. So if you have noticed that your AC unit is making odd noises, be sure to book an appointment with ThermEnergy. We employ Toronto’s most trusted HVAC repair and installation experts. Here are some of the most commonly heard AC noises by homeowners and what issue might be causing them.

Why is my AC Making a Banging Noise

Loose parts are usually the reason behind a banging noise. If the compressor is making a banging noise, it could mean there are loose piston pins or connector rods. It could also be an issue with the blower fan inside the home having loose blades. You’ll need a professional A/C repair technician to fix these issues and you’ll want to do it sooner rather than later. Running your air conditioner with these loose parts could create even more damage, or result in a total breakdown of your A/C unit.

Why is my AC Making a Clicking Noise

If you hear a constant clicking noise through your A/C unit’s cooling cycle, then you know it’s time to investigate what the issue is. It could be a problem with capacitors in the compressor or another electrical issue. A technician will have to diagnose the problem because your air conditioner is made up of many complex electrical systems. Changing out your thermostat could also be a solution, but again, a professional HVAC repair expert can advise properly on this.

Why is my AC Making a Buzzing Noise

If your air conditioner is making buzzing noises this could be caused by a number of issues, including a faulty compressor, a malfunctioning condenser fan, or maybe your evaporator coils have suddenly frozen over. Freezing is even more serious because it means that your air conditioner could have a leak. There may be parts that need to be replaced by an A/C repair professional. However, if your AC unit has just frozen over, you can take some steps on your own to safely thaw it out. Turn the unit off and give it some time to thaw before switching on the fan function, not the cool function. This will allow you to push warm air over any remaining ice and hopefully dry up any remaining moisture.

Why is my AC Making a Humming Noise

If you hear a humming noise coming from your air conditioner it’s likely a problem with a faulty contactor relay switch. This will prevent your air conditioner from turning on until you get it fixed up by a professional. Do not avoid taking care of this issue or keep trying to use your air conditioner in this state as it could lead to further and more expensive repairs down the line.

Why is my AC Making a Hissing Noise

A hissing noise coming from an air conditioner usually means that there is a refrigerant leak on the unit. This could be caused by a leaky hose or a malfunctioning expansion valve. You need a certified AC repair professional to repair any and all refrigerant leaks as it’s a very dangerous and difficult job. The technician will have to fix the leak and properly charge the system with new coolant before it can operate safely again.

Why is my AC Making a Screeching Noise

A screeching noise is one that many homeowners report with a malfunctioning air conditioner. This is usually caused by a dying fan in the condenser unit outside of your home. There could also be an issue with the fan belt or fan bearings. In any case, if you hear these kinds of sounds coming from your air conditioner, stop using it immediately and book an appointment with a professional AC technician.

Why is my AC Making a Clanking Noise

While a clanking noise could be caused by loose parts, there’s also a good chance that it’s happening because your fan blades are unbalanced. You need this looked after fast because it means that fan blades could be hitting and damaging other components inside the AC unit.

Why is my AC Making a Pulsating Noise

If your AC unit is making loud pulsating noises it could be an issue with the fan blades or perhaps a coil needs to be tightened back into place. 

Hire an HVAC Tech and Stop the Noise!

AC units are complex machines that can all make a number of different noises. It’s important to contact a professional HVAC technician to quickly diagnose and fix the issue. The AC repair experts at ThermEnergy are standing by to take your call, so book an appointment today!