Did you know that 17% of a typical household’s energy bills goes toward air conditioning use alone?
If you live in Texas though, this can be even higher, what with it now being the hottest state in the entire country. In 2018, for instance, many parts of the Lone Star State had temps reaching almost 120 degrees.
All those super-hot days and very warm nights have likely forced you to rely more on your air conditioner.
This increased use, however, places more strain on your cooling system. This can then lead to an AC making noise that’s louder than usual. It can also cause a decline in cooling performance.
If your AC makes a noise that you’ve never heard before, it’s likely due to one or more of the reasons listed below.
1. An AC Making Noise Often Signals Loose Parts
Loud humming or buzzing AC sounds are often caused by loose parts, such as nuts, bolts, and screws. The fan blades may have also become loose or out-of-balance. A detached panel may also be a culprit.
Have these parts tightened ASAP, otherwise, they may end up completely detached. A loose panel, for instance, introduces more contaminants into your system. This can then lead to your AC accumulating dust and debris faster.
Keep in mind that dirt build-up is one of the top causes of inefficiency in air conditioners. These contaminants can also mix with the air that your AC circulates into your home. This can then reduce your home’s indoor air quality, which can lead to health problems.
2. Completely Dislodged Parts
An air conditioner making loud noises, such as banging, indicate dislodged parts. Your AC’s fan, for instance, can strew around a fallen nut or bolt. The sound comes from the impact of the detached part hitting the blades of the AC fan.
3. Foreign Objects Inside the AC
An air conditioner making rattling noises may signal foreign objects inside the unit. These can also damage the fan blades, which may then lead to squealing noises from the AC.
4. Excessive Friction
Lubrication keeps all the moving parts in your AC from overheating. If these parts “run dry”, it will result in the air conditioner squealing, squeaking, or even wailing. The longer they remain unlubricated, the higher their odds of early breakdown.
5. Refrigerant Leak
A more dangerous cause of buzzing from the AC is leaking refrigerant. In this case, you should get in touch with an HVAC repair technician ASAP. Refrigerants are toxic substances, and even minor exposure can cause breathing issues.
If your AC still uses the R-22 refrigerant, then know that this substance is already phased out. You can still have it recharged, but expect the cost to be significantly higher. It may be best to get your entire AC replaced instead.
Have an HVAC Technician Check Your Noisy AC ASAP
There you have it, the top five possible culprits behind an AC making noise. If you notice any of these weird sounds, don’t delay scheduling an AC inspection. This will allow an HVAC technician to pinpoint and fix the root cause of those noises ASAP.
Ready to make those awful AC noises disappear? Then we here at McWilliams & Son Heating and Air Conditioning can help! Get in touch with us now and we’ll be happy to diagnose and fix your noisy AC.
