When Your Air Conditioner Goes Bang, Clank, Click and Buzz

As your air conditioner starts to run more regularly are you hearing tell-tale noises that may indicate something is amiss with your cooling unit?

Here are some of the common sounds your HVAC system could make and what they may signify.  If ignored these types of issues will only get worse and create bigger problems.

Banging
Banging is usually a sure sign that there’s a loose or broken part.  This could be a number of things inside the air conditioner’s compressor. It could also mean your indoor blower is unbalanced.

Clanking
Clanking is another sign of a loose or out-of-balance part that has failed inside the sealed unit. This sound can also mean that the indoor blower or outdoor fan and its blades are out of balance and hitting other parts.

Clicking
Clicking sounds from electrical components at start-up and shutdown are normal. But ongoing clicking is not typical.  It could be a sign of a defective control or a failing thermostat. There are a lot of electrical parts in your unit, so it’s critical to pay attention to potential electrical issues as soon as you notice them.

Buzzing
There are many potential problems associated with a buzzing noise from your outside unit.  These can result from loose parts, fan motor or fan blades; the condenser and air filter needs to be cleaned or changed; or the blower is out of balance or going bad.

Different noises can mean different problems that an HVAC specialist can identify.

Squealing
Outdoor fan motors and indoor blower motors squeal loudly when they are going bad. The blower wheel and housing will also squeal when they malfunction. Although in some A/C units a brief squealing sound upon start-up is normal.

Humming
Loose parts and electrical problems can cause vibration that leads to a humming sound. Left unchecked these problems can lead to more serious maintenance issues. If the compressor hums and refuses to start, there may be an issue with the motor, though loose wiring can trigger this noise, too.

Chattering/Rattling
A rattling noise can mean that your air conditioner is starting to deteriorate. Or it could be as simple as twigs or leaves clogging your system. Electrical contacts in the equipment can also make a chattering sound that should be checked out immediately. Fans will also rattle when they become loose.

Screaming
High-pitched whistling or screaming noises are often caused by a refrigerant leak. Screaming might also indicate high internal pressure within your compressor, which is very dangerous.  If you hear these noises shut the air conditioner off and call a professional right away.

Annual Inspections Can Catch Problems Early
It costs a lot to repair or replace an air conditioner. That’s why having your air conditioner serviced once a year can minimize future problems and extend the life of your unit. Go to Mecko’s A/C Super Tune Up Special.

Cost of R22 Continues to Climb
For those whose A/C units still use R22 refrigerant, as the supply of this product declines (there is no more being made), the price continues to escalate.

If your older unit continues to require replenishment charges, it is time to consider purchasing a new air conditioner.    Go to the High Price of R22 for additional information.