Common Reasons Your AC Is Loud

When your AC starts humming loudly or making a clanging sound on a hot day, it can inspire panic. While unusual noises may be unnerving, they aren’t always a sign of immediate danger. In some cases, you can troubleshoot these problems on your own.

Why is my AC making that noise? And how can I fix it? For more information about resolving unusual AC noises and when you need professional help, read on.

Normal AC Sounds vs. Problem Noises

Before you schedule professional heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) services, it’s important to understand which AC symptoms are cause for concern.

Startup Click vs. Warning Sounds

A normal AC will often produce a slight humming noise when it’s on. As the thermostat signals the unit to turn on and off, you may hear a single click.

You should schedule repairs for your AC if you hear the following noises.

• Grinding
• Clicking
• Rattling
• Hissing
• Screeching
• Squealing
• Banging
• Loud or unusual buzzing and humming

What Common AC Noises Usually Mean

So, why is my AC so loud in Bandon? To get a better understanding of troubleshooting these problems, let’s check out some of the most common sounds and what they mean.

Clicking

If you notice a continuous AC clicking noise on the coast, there may be an electrical malfunction. Unfortunately, Bandon’s seaside climate means that electrical problems are more common. You can troubleshoot by tightening the panel and replacing thermostat batteries. If this doesn’t work, our team will check for problems with your contactor, capacitor, or compressor.

Buzzing

An AC buzzing noise on the coast is often due to electrical issues as well. We may need to replace your capacitor, contactor relay, or loose electrical connections.

Hissing

The humid, salty air in Bandon causes corrosion and rust. Eventually, this can result in breaks in your refrigerant lines. An AC hissing sound in Bandon is an immediate problem. Besides posing a possible health hazard, it can also result in your AC blowing warm air. Shut off your AC before calling our team to find and fix your refrigerant leak.

Grinding or Squealing

When you hear an AC grinding noise, the salt air may have worn out your motor bearings or damaged your fan blades. This noise can also happen if your compressor is failing. All of these problems must be addressed by a professional HVAC technician.

Screeching

If your motor bearings or fan belt (in older ACs) are failing, it can cause a screeching noise. This can also occur due to a failing compressor. In all of these circumstances, you should immediately shut off your unit to prevent further damage.

Banging or Rattling

Saltwater corrosion can cause an unbalanced fan blade, corroded components, or a failing compressor. AC rattling in the condenser may be due to debris. While you can clean the outdoor condenser with your hose on a low setting and remove some debris, the other problems must be diagnosed by a technician.

Noises That Mean Shut the System off Right Away

If you notice any of the following sounds or warning signs, immediately turn off your AC and call for help.

• Hissing noises
• Screeching sounds
• Burning odors

Safe Checks Before a Repair Call

Before you call for repairs, there are a few safe checks you can perform.

Debris, Filter, and Visible Fan Obstruction

First, turn your AC off. Using your hose on a low setting, clean the outdoor condenser to remove any debris. You can also check for anything obstructing the fan.

To avoid airflow and performance problems, remember to replace dirty filters. Depending on the manufacturer, this should generally be done every 30 to 90 days.

Schedule AC Repair in Bandon: Call (541) 238-2973

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my AC so loud?”, Bandon HVAC inspections can help. Note when your sound starts and if there were any performance changes. Then, let your HVAC technician know this information.

Reach out to Alpha Heating & Air today for professional diagnostics and repairs.