Is your air conditioner unusually loud? Air conditioners should run fairly quietly, without a lot of noise. If you’re hearing banging, rattling, or grinding, it may be a sign that your system has a problem. In the Fort Myers and Tampa area, your air conditioner can run practically year-round, so keeping it quiet is important. Noises in the system can indicate a problem and impact your home’s comfort. If you’re hearing unusual noises, here’s what you need to know.
Understand Normal Noise
Your air conditioner will make some noise as it runs. After all, it’s made from moving parts, and when those parts move, they make noise. The older the system is, the more noise it will produce, because older systems don’t have the noise reduction technology found in newer units. Normal motor sounds are not something to be worried about.
Loose Components
Rattling in the system may be due to a loose bolt or screw somewhere on your system. When the system starts to run, it creates normal vibrations. That vibration can cause the loose component to rattle, creating noise. Look for loose bolts or screws if you’re hearing rattling.
Something in the System
If you don’t find a loose bolt and have a rattle, it could be because something fell into the vents on your outdoor unit. A leaf or stick inside the outdoor unit will cause a rattling sound. Take the cover off and look for debris.
Fan Motors
Fan motors that have worn bearings or other problems will cause a grinding noise. This is a problem that requires a call to your HVAC technician to repair. If you ignore it, you could destroy the fan motor, which is a serious and expensive repair.
Ductwork Issues
Sometimes, especially as it ages, your ducts can start to pop. Air temperature changes cause expansion and contraction that creates this popping sound. To ensure that you aren’t creating a problem for your home, contact an HVAC technician to inspect your ductwork if you’re hearing popping sounds.
Ductwork problems can also cause hissing or whistling noises. This occurs when the air is flowing through a small leak in the ductwork. Having your ducts inspected and sealed can help with this problem.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant leaks can also cause a hissing or whistling sound. If you’re hearing this sound and noticing a drop-in efficiency and comfort, call for a repair appointment right away. Refrigerant leaks require professional repair.
Blower Fan or Compressor Problems
The blower fan or compressor will make a banging noise if they are damaged. This can be due to a fan blade that has broken off of one of the system’s fans, or because of a serious issue with the compressor. This also requires professional service.
Call Us for Noisy AC Repair in Fort Myers & Naples, FL
Have a noisy AC unit? Your air conditioner’s noises should not be ignored—and often they will need to be addressed by a professional technician. If you can’t find the source quickly, you need to give Certified Heating and Cooling a call. Our expert technicians are skilled at pinpointing and fixing unusual noises with your AC, and we will help you protect your air conditioner so it delivers reliable performance all season long.
Ready to schedule an appointment for AC repair or tune-up in Fort Myers or Naples? Contact us online or give us a call at (239) 204-4114 today!
