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Why Is My AC System Making Noises? | Insight from Your Trusted Plano, TX Air Conditioning Service Provider

Why Is My AC System Making Noises? | Insight from Your Trusted Plano, TX Air Conditioning Service Provider

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You don’t have to be an HVAC professional to know that your air conditioning system should not be making noises. That is why the first time you hear a noise you may be a bit on guard. It is easy to dismiss something as a one-time occurrence, but when you start noticing it more frequently it is probably time to call a Plano, TX heating company for air conditioning service.

The good news is that not all air conditioning noises are bad. Some may indicate minor issues that can be easily resolved by an air conditioning service. With any luck that is the case with the noise you are hearing, but you won’t know for sure until you call your local HVAC professional. While you wait for their service call, here are a few things you may want to know about suspicious noises from your HVAC system.

Common AC Noises and What They Mean 

While your air conditioning system can make all types of noises, if you hear repeated noises then you generally have a problem. You shouldn’t ignore the sounds because they can help indicate what exactly is wrong with your system. The sooner you call for air conditioning service in Plano, TX, the sooner you can get to the bottom of the issue.

Usually, time is of the essence because depending on the issue waiting can actually be causing more issues. In some cases, continuing to run your system without addressing the noises can cause an existing problem to become worse. Here are a few of the most common AC noises and what they mean.

Hissing- There are a variety of reasons why your HVAC system may be hissing, but in most cases, the cause can be linked to a compressor issue, an internal valve leak, or some type of damage to the refrigerant line.

Gurgling- Usually gurgling noises point back to the refrigerant line. You don’t have to figure out exactly where the noise is coming from, because a professional from an ac service can pinpoint the exact location based on the sounds you describe, but it’s helpful to have a starting point so anything you notice and record in helpful.

Clicking- Clicking is usually an indication that your fan has become misaligned or there is a loose part somewhere in the system. This is usually a ‘good’ noise since a simple air conditioning service call should be able to fix it.

Crackling- There are a handful of reasons for crackling, but in the best-case scenario the situation is caused by debris that has entered the unit or fallen in from old ductwork loosening. Believe it or not, debris in the outside unit can also cause noises that reverberate inside of your home.

Loud Noises from Outside the Home- If you are hearing loud banging noises from your external unit, then the issue is likely with your compressor, air handler, or fan. You will want to call a professional and schedule air conditioning service sooner than later. If you catch the problem correctly you may be able to avoid replacing your external unit.

Buzzing- Buzzing is a clear sign of an electrical issue, and also a sign that you should probably turn your HVAC system off until a professional can evaluate where the issue is stemming from. While it may have a harmless cause, it is always better to be safe than sorry when electrical issues are suspected.

Humming- The sound of your air conditioning system, in general, may sound like a gentle humming, but if you notice the humming is getting louder or becoming more noticeable in any other way, then it is time to schedule an air conditioning service in Plano, TX. Humming usually starts because of a broken relay switch or issues with the fan motor.

Pulsating- Most AC pulsating noises are the result of a loose part. Simply tightening the part can solve the issue, but ignoring the issue can lead to the part breaking or even worse, causing an associated piece to break.

If My HVAC System Is Making Noises Should I Turn It Off?

As the above list shows, there are dozens of reasons why your HVAC system might suddenly be making noises. In many of these cases, you can safely continue to run your AC without doing any more damage. However, there are also many cases in which you might be causing more damage. It is virtually impossible to answer that question until you have a thorough air conditioning service call and the system is inspected. Most professionals will advise you to shut down your AC system, but in the end, it is your choice. Just be aware of the risk that is associated with continuing to do so.

When to Call an HVAC Company About Air Conditioning Noises

Since you never know what the problem is until it is investigated, it is a good idea to call an HVAC company about any suspicious air conditioning noises the second you hear them. Your HVAC system should never be making noises, so once you identify a regular noise it is a good idea to give K&S Heating and Air a call.

No one likes to deal with the stress of unexpected air conditioning service, but promptly addressing an issue can end up saving you hundreds of dollars in the long run. In most cases, quick action can help you repair your air conditioning unit so that you don’t end up with a serious problem that leaves you needing an entirely new unit. You also might want to think about scheduling an annual air conditioning service with K&S Heating and Air to prevent any future issues from arising.