Why is My Air Conditioner Making A Strange Noise?

Nothing can ruin a relaxing day faster than a noisy air conditioner. Modern air conditioners can operate at a whisper-quiet level, using sound-dampening technology and variable speed compressors to keep you comfortable in your Sacramento, California, home. So when your air conditioner emits a strange noise, it’s running less than optimally and requires professional service.

Buzzing

A buzzing noise from the outside unit is one of the more common indications that something is wrong with your air conditioner. A variety of issues can cause air conditioner buzzing, including:

• Loose parts that require tightening.
• A blocked condenser that requires cleaning.
• An air filter that requires changing.

Banging

More serious than buzzing, a banging in your air conditioning system usually indicates a problem requiring urgent attention. Generally, a part that has come loose or becomes unbalanced causes the banging sound. The parts are literally knocking into one another. You need to address this issue as soon as possible to avoid causing potentially serious damage. As a result, you’ll reduce your risk of a major breakdown.

Humming

A humming sound is typically a sign of an electrical or a mechanical failure. Both cases require professional repair. A fan motor might have seized up. Loose wiring or an overloaded circuit breaker can also cause a humming sound, but both are easily repairable.

Squealing

Squealing occurs most commonly after an air conditioner has been dormant for a while and subject to winter elements such as ice. Both belt-driven and direct-drive units can experience this seasonal damage. Worn belts that are slipping and worn bearings in the fan motor can cause high-pitched squealing noises.

Our friendly service technicians make it easy to repair your noisy air conditioner, giving you peace of mind that it’s running as efficiently as possible. If you’ve heard any of these strange sounds coming from your AC unit, call Jaguar Heating & Air at 916-646-2007 to schedule an inspection.

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