Intro - Are All Noises Bad Noises?
It is typical for air conditioners to generate some sound while they operate, but not all sounds are the same. Some sounds can be considered normal operation of the equipment, while others can indicate the beginnings of a problem. Understanding the difference will help you avoid unnecessary concern, and prevent minor issues from developing into costly failure. Let’s talk about the most common sounds you might hear in either a central AC system or a ductless mini-split, and what those sounds mean for your comfort.
Is Your AC Making Noises? Evergreen Heating and Cooling Can Help!
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Central Air
Normal Noises
Low hum of the outdoor condenser running
Every time your outdoor condenser is running, you should hear a quiet, consistent humming sound from your central AC system. That’s just the compressor and fan working together to transfer refrigerant and cool your air. If the hum is consistent, and has moderate volume, it indicates your system is running properly.
Gentle whoosh of air through ducts
In your home, you may hear the soft whoosh or rush of air traveling through the ductwork and vents. This means that the blower motor is delivering cooled air to each room. If it is a steady noise, and not a whistling or rattling noise, then this is part of normal operation. Nothing to worry about!
Noises That Need Attention
Loud banging from loose or broken fan blades
When you hear strange banging or clanking noise from your outdoor unit it’s typically related to something with the fan blade either it has come loose or the fan blade itself is hitting something inside of the housing. If this happens it may lead to more damages on the fan motor or compressor if it sustains, shut the system off and call for service immediately.
Buzzing or crackling from electrical issues
You may hear electrical trouble with your AC because of a different sound, like buzzing, crackling, or popping. These sounds generally mean wires, contacts, or capacitors are damaged or failing. If you have electrical problems, they should always be handled promptly by a licensed technician, as electrical problems pose a safety issue.
High-pitched squealing from a failing blower motor
An intermittent squealing sound, particularly on start up of the system, may indicate that the blower motor is beginning to wear. Eventually it could lead to reduced air flow or the motor failing altogether. Addressing it early can avoid a sudden breakdown on the hottest day of the year.
Ductless Mini-Split
Normal Noises
Quiet fan whirs inside the air handler
When the indoor unit of a ductless mini-split system runs, you may hear a very soft whir from the fan, which indicates that the blower is slowly moving air into the room and is usually more quiet than the ceiling fan.
Soft clicking when the unit turns on or off
A different normal sound is a soft clicking sound that happens when the system powers up or shuts down. This is due to electrical relays switching on and off and does not in any way indicate problems with operating performance.
Occasional gentle gurgle from refrigerant flow
At times, you may hear some faint gurgling noises inside the indoor unit or outdoor unit. This noise can be produced by the refrigerant moving through the coils and is a natural part of the operation. It is indeed nothing to be concerned with if this sound is periodic, and is not constant, nor is it loud.
Noises That Need Attention
Rattling from loose wall mount or panel
If the indoor air handler starts to rattle, it could be a loose mounting bracket or panel. While this is generally an easy fix, failure to address it will ultimately add to the wear and tear on the unit and noise in the space.
Grinding or squealing from indoor fan motor
A grinding noise or high-pitched squeal emanating from the indoor unit is generally an indication that the fan motor is failing or the bearings are worn. This noise will not repair itself and could lead to a total motor failure if it continues.
Loud vibration from the outdoor compressor
A loud vibrating outdoor unit on your mini-split could mean that either one or more components inside the compressor are either loose or broken. Vibrations are not only noisy but can also shorten the life of your system. This is one issue you’ll want checked as soon as you can.
Conclusion - Call Evergreen Heating & Cooling Today!
Some noises are harmless background noise, while other noises are indications of a problem that cannot wait. If you hear banging, squealing, hissing, or any other weird noises coming from your central air or ductless mini-split system, don't hesitate to call Evergreen Heating & Cooling, and we will be glad to help. We can diagnose what is happening quickly, we will do it right the first time, and we will bring peace back to your home. Contact us today to schedule your air conditioning service to keep your system running strong and efficiently.
