Skip navigation

Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning Blog

Unusual Sounds Your AC Shouldn’t Make

man-covers-ears

When your air conditioning system is running as it should, its operation will be mostly silent. You’ll hear an initial click when it turns on, the sound of the system turning on, and the gentle whoosh of air from the vents. 

When you hear a noise other than these, you’ll notice it. You may also notice decreased performance. Whenever your AC system makes unusual noises, it’s likely that you need AC repair in Tampa. Ignoring any unusual noises can potentially lead to a minor issue becoming a major problem if left unchecked. Let’s go over the unusual sounds your AC might make that signal trouble.

Banging or Clanking

If you hear a banging or clanking sound coming from your AC system, it’s a clear sign that something is not right. This noise often results from loose or broken parts within the system. Over time, components such as the compressor, fan blades, or motor mounts can become loose or even break. The unbalanced blower can also cause a loud banging sound as it strikes other parts of the system. 

Hissing or Whistling

A hissing or whistling sound is another sign that your AC needs repair. This sound usually means there’s a refrigerant leak somewhere in the system. A refrigerant leak will significantly impair your AC system’s ability to cool your home. Low refrigerant levels can also cause the evaporator coil to freeze, leading to further damage. 

Squealing or Screeching

If you hear your AC system making a squealing or screeching noise, it could be due to belts or motor bearings. Over time, belts can become loose or frayed, and motor bearings can wear out. The result is a high-pitched squealing or screeching sound that is hard to ignore. If you hear this noise, contact us for a quick repair. Continuing to run the AC in this condition can cause further damage and lead to more expensive repairs.

Buzzing or Humming

A buzzing or humming sound coming from your AC system can be unnerving. This noise is often associated with electrical issues or loose parts within the system. Electrical problems such as faulty wiring, failing capacitors, or issues with the compressor can cause a buzzing noise. Loose parts, on the other hand, can create a humming noise as they vibrate during operation. It’s essential to have one of our HVAC professionals inspect the system.

Clicking

Clicking sounds are common when your AC system starts up or shuts down. However, if the clicking persists throughout the operation, it could indicate a problem. Continuous clicking often points to issues with the relay or electrical components. A failing relay can prevent your AC from cycling on and off correctly, leading to inconsistent cooling performance. Electrical component failure can also impede the operation of your system. 

Recognizing and addressing unusual sounds from your air conditioning system is essential. If you hear any of the noises listed above, don’t hesitate to contact us. 

Contact Bayonet Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning to schedule AC repair in Tampa, FL today!

Comments are closed.