5 Air Conditioner Noises to Look Out For

Our air conditioners have been such a vital component of our home’s comfort, especially in the Philippines, where scorching heat is experienced year-round. However, what do you do when the soothing hum of cool air is interrupted by a strange and unsettling noise from your AC unit? Understanding these noises can help identify potential issues early on and prevent serious problems down the line. Let’s dive into the different air conditioner noises to look out for, what they mean, and how to fix them.

Banging and Rattling

The unsettling sound of banging and rattling in your AC unit may not necessarily be a serious concern and can be fixed easily. Sometimes, the banging sound can be associated with a compressor cut-in or cut-off, while the rattling sound could be caused by refrigerant piping hitting a plastic part. In most cases, it points to particles stuck in the condenser or loose screws and other components. Sticks, leaves, and other dirt particles get stuck in the condenser, which happens more commonly for split-type air conditioners since the condenser unit is usually placed outside.

Fortunately, this issue in particular can be solved by cleaning the condenser on a regular basis to avoid buildup. Another reason for this unfamiliar sound is that both outside and inside units vibrate when in use, and over time, this can cause screws to become loose. Tightening the nuts and bolts should easily eliminate the banging and rattling noises.

Hissing or Whistling

The hissing or whistling of your air conditioner may be one of the alarming sounds to watch out for the most. At times, it can only refer to refrigerant expansion, which is normal. This happens when there’s a buildup of dust or dirt in the blower wheel which produces a turbulent air sound. However, the most serious concern of these types of sounds are often associated with refrigerant leaks, which not only compromise your air conditioner’s efficiency but also pose environmental and health hazards.

If you suspect a refrigerant leak, it would be best to turn off the AC unit and have a professional assess and repair the issue.

Clicking

During startup and shutdown, clicking sounds from electrical parts are normal. Some ticking sounds are coming from plastic par contraction or expansion due to change in temperature. What’s not normal is a consistent clicking, as this could signal electrical problems. In this case, faulty wiring and capacitors might be the culprits. An expert’s attention is necessary to avoid electrical hazards.

Grinding

Grinding noises may suggest either a worn-out compressor issue or worn-out motor bearings on the AC unit. Over time, a unit’s components become frayed, misaligned, and even damaged due to continuous use. In severe cases, it’s recommended that the compressor and motor bearings be completely replaced for the air conditioner to run smoothly and efficiently. However, the assessment of a professional technician based on the gravity of the malfunction is important to determine whether the replacement of the entire unit is more efficient in the long run.

Humming

A soft and consistent humming is usually a sign that your air conditioner unit is running smoothly. During ramp up or down of variable or inverter compressors, this sound is normal as the speed changes, but you need to pay close attention when it becomes excessively loud to avoid causing more serious damage to the motor. The troubling sound is usually caused by a lack of lubrication, loose components, or imbalanced fan blades. It’s best to have a regular maintenance schedule to prolong the life of your AC unit.

By familiarizing yourself with the different noises your air conditioning system may produce, you’re able to take prompt action to ensure continuous comfort and prevent costly repairs down the line. If you start to hear any of these noises and you’re not sure of what to do exactly, always consult a professional technician to diagnose and address the issue effectively.

The good news is that you can easily access Condura’s convenient after-sales service. From general cleaning and regular maintenance to more technical issues, Condura strives to provide you with tailored services. Whether it’s a split-type or window-type air conditioner, you can keep your unit in tip-top shape by booking your service requests online here!