It’s possible that in the next decade your AC unit will be advanced enough to identify problems before they happen – like a warning system. You may already have a smart thermostat that connects to your wifi and phone so that you can program your temperature settings even when you’re away. But until we also have smart AC units, we are left with the responsibility of identifying the warning signs that it needs repair.
Unusual sounds are the most common warning signs that something is wrong with your AC unit. When you know what sounds are normal and what sounds aren’t, you can address problems before they get worse. If you think you need air conditioning repair in Oregon City, we can help, If you hear one of these five sounds, it’s a sign that something is wrong and needs to be addressed right away.
1. AC Unit Shrieking Sounds
While some sounds may leave doubt in your mind about whether they’re normal or not, shrieking is obvious. Something is wrong and needs to be addressed right away. Shrieking usually comes from the motor inside your AC’s compressor. Sometimes the motor wears down naturally over time. Other times the motor has an unusual problem because something went wrong.
2. AC Unit Grinding Sounds
This sound is also most commonly happening in the motor of an AC unit. If your motor doesn’t have enough lubrication to run smoothly, it results in a grinding sound. The same thing happens if dust and dirt build up in the motor. You can prevent grinding by investing in regular maintenance. Cleaning and lubricating your motor will usually resolve the problem if it didn’t cause additional damage.
3. AC Unit Rattling or Clanging Sounds
Rattling or clanging may be tough to identify at first because it isn’t as loud as shrieking or grinding. But if you think you hear rattling, something may be loose in your unit. Clanging is a sign that something larger is loose and knocking around. Even if it’s just a small part, anything that is loose can cause a lot of damage over time.
4. AC Unit Bubbling or Hissing Sounds
Bubbling and hissing occur if your AC’s refrigerant line has a leak. It sounds more like bubbling if it comes from the area of the line where the refrigerant is liquid. If it comes from an area of the line where the refrigerant is gas, the sound may be described as hissing. Leaking refrigerant can cost you a lot on your energy bill as your AC unit fights to cool your home without enough refrigerant available.
5. AC Unit Clicking Sounds
You may hear your AC unit click as it turns on and off. But if you hear clicking at other times, something may be wrong. If clicking persists and is a near-constant sound, that’s a sign that your unit isn’t staying on to cool consistently. Your unit may be struggling to run and keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Any unusual sounds are cause for concern. Allowing your air conditioner to continue running when there’s a problem can lead to more damage and a more expensive repair.
Contact Chase Heating and Cooling today to schedule an appointment with our professionals. We’re “Keeping Homes Comfortable In All Seasons.”