Due to technology advancements, modern cooling units feature sound-dampening features that allow for quiet operation. As such, the system's normal operating sounds are within a low decibel range, hence not affecting your sleep or focus. Thus, if you hear unusual noises from your air conditioner, the appliance could be malfunctioning. Hiring an AC repair technician for a unit diagnostic callout is important. They will perform a functionality test, identify the reason for the noises, and remedy it for a quiet indoor ambiance. Below are AC sounds you shouldn't overlook.

Rattling or Clunking

The condenser unit's location makes it vulnerable to infiltration by outdoor elements. Accordingly, foreign objects like sticks can enter the condenser's cabinet and dislodge the fan or bend the fan blades. On the other hand, the vibration of the outdoor unit can loosen screws and other fasteners, making them rattle during the AC's operation. Therefore, it is wise to engage an AC professional. They will ensure adequate clearance to the condenser for effective ventilation and install vibration pads beneath the unit to absorb rattling and vibrations.

Squealing

If your system is leaking refrigerant, it will likely emit a squealing noise. This is due to formic acid corrosion in the line set, causing holes through which the coolant leaks. Furthermore, excessive vibrations from the outdoor unit can dislodge the access fittings, leaking the refrigerant. As a result, you will hear a squealing noise as the refrigerant escapes from the copper lines. Since prolonged exposure to the refrigerant is detrimental to your health, you should contact an AC specialist promptly. They will patch the line set and regas the system for optimal cooling power.

Buzzing

If your unit emits a buzzing noise, the culprit could be an electrical failure. For instance, as your motor's capacitor degrades over time, it may draw more power than it ought. As a result, you will hear buzzing noises while the motor attempts to run. On the other hand, if the current deviates from the normal path and jumps between circuitry, it will create electrical arcing. Consequently, the AC will produce a buzzing noise indicating an electrical malfunction.

Humming

Although it is normal for your unit to make occasional hums during cooling cycles, it should not be disruptive. Therefore, loud humming noises may indicate that the line set lacks sufficient refrigerant. This could be due to loose access fittings, which leak the coolant, causing vibrations that manifest as humming noises. As such, it is wise to contact an AC contractor to secure the line set connections in order to prevent leakages.

A noisy AC can disrupt your household and make your house uncomfortable. Thus, you should schedule routine maintenance checks with an air conditioning repair expert to ensure your unit's peak functionality.

Keep these warnings in mind when looking for an AC repair service.