Why Is My Air Conditioner Making Noises?
The simple fact is that air conditioners make noise. AC units contain fans and it is next to impossible to run a fan without making at least some sound.
Generally speaking, AC units will emit a low “hum” when pumping air into the ductwork. You may also hear a clicking sound when the thermostat turns the AC unit on or off.
But, if the noise level is high, or the sounds are strange, unpleasant, and/or disruptive, you may be in need of air conditioning repair in Carrollton TX.
What are Common Air Conditioner Noises?
There are several different sounds your air conditioning unit can make when experiencing problems. Here are the most common sounds your unit may make:
- Loud Humming or Buzzing
Typically, if your AC unit is humming or buzzing, it is the result of trouble with the motor or loose electrical components and wiring.
If you only hear the humming or buzzing at certain settings, it is possible to trace the sound back to a particular faulty component. On the other hand, if you hear these sounds constantly, it is likely electrical.
- Hissing or Screaming Sound
If you hear a loud hissing or a screaming sound, you likely have a serious problem with your compressor or your refrigerant. It is best to shut the unit down immediately to avoid further damage and the necessity of an AC repair or replacement.
On top of doing significant damage to the unit, problems with the refrigerant can also cause the AC to blow hot air into your home, significantly impacting your comfort levels.
- Banging
Banging and clanking sounds are most often caused by broken moving parts or debris trapped inside the unit. If you hear a continuous banging or clanking while running the unit, call the pros at Diamond Blue Air and we’ll come to assess the situation and tighten or repair any loose or broken parts.
- Clicking or Rattling Sound
It is normal to hear some clicking or rattling, especially when the unit turns on. But if you hear the noise consistently, or if the unit just started to make the noise, turn it off and do a visual inspection. It is likely that debris, like leaves or small sticks and twigs, has become trapped inside. If you are unable to identify the issue, call our HVAC specialists to come and have a look.
- Gurgling, Dripping, or Wet Sounds
If the sounds you hear from your AC are related to liquid, it is probably an issue with the refrigerant or condensate line. Issues with either one can be quite serious. Depending on the age of your unit, the refrigerant may produce significant environmental impacts. If the condensate drain lines are backed up or dislodged from place, it can cause the unit to freeze or lead to corrosion. If there is a clogged line, you don’t want your air conditioning unit to leak water. This can lead to additional property damage.
Is It Normal for a Heat Pump to Make Noises?
If you are one of the many Texas residents using a heat pump, it is important to note that sounds and noises are a natural part of the system’s operation. Most modern heat pumps emit noise at around 60 decibels which is around the same as normal conversation or the noise from your refrigerator.
But, if you are experiencing sounds that are new to your heat pump, or particularly loud noises, call us and we’ll come out to have a look.
3 Tips for How to Make Your Air Conditioner Quieter
A noisy air conditioner can really impact your life. No one wants to deal with a consistently loud noise. And simply turning the unit off in the scorching summer temperatures is really not an option.
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to reduce noise and improve your satisfaction with your air conditioning system.
Here are our suggestions for dampening AC noise:
1. Place Sound Barriers Around the AC Unit
While a totally quiet operation is not possible, there are many things you can do to muffle or reduce the noise you experience.
A sound blanket can reduce noise by up to 40%. These blankets wrap around the compressor (typically the loudest component), where the rubber and glass insulation absorbs the noise, trapping it inside the blanket.
It is also possible to use natural materials to reduce air conditioner noise by muffling the sound. Ornamental flowers and shrubs can dampen the noise and lessen how far the noise can travel.
If you are planting shrubs and flowers as a sound barrier, ensure that they are at least one foot away from the outdoor unit on all sides. Planting them too close will reduce airflow and impact your comfort levels, and your energy bill! Follow these tips for how to hide an air conditioner outside the right way.
2. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your HVAC system will ensure all parts remain in the best possible condition. When all the components are working as they should, noise, beyond that of normal operation, will be eliminated or reduced.
For air conditioning maintenance in DFW and surrounding areas, consider the Diamond Blue 360 plan. Our technicians will examine critical components twice a year, in the spring and the fall. This will ensure that your HVAC unit is running smoothly and efficiently, delivering cool air without the added noise!
3. Install a New Air Conditioner
The quietest AC is often a newer AC. If you have tried the methods mentioned above and still the noise persists, a new unit might be your best option. Obviously, this is only suggested if you have a very old unit and if it’s time to upgrade. We will offer you an honest opinion on when to service vs. repair or replace your air conditioner.
Look for air conditioners like American Standard® that use multi-stage or variable-speed cooling. These options mean that your AC unit can operate at a lower and quieter speed on days when it is not as warm. These units deliver quieter cooling that can also reduce your energy bill as the AC will not be running full blast when it is unnecessary.
Diamond Blue Air partners with American Standard allowing us to install affordable, quiet, energy-efficient cooling in the Irving, TX region.
Make Your Air Conditioner Quieter with Diamond Blue Air
Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance on your central air, require a repair, or need a new installation, you can count on Diamond Blue Air to get the job done right.
Our experienced technicians are trained to identify and remedy your AC noise problems quickly and affordably. We are so confident in our work that we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee.*
We know how important it is for you to feel comfortable in your home and so we treat each and every customer like a member of our family. Give us a call today, at 469-200-3100, to get started!
