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Why is My AC Making Loud Noises

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Modern, latest air conditioners are designed to produce little or no noise. If you notice strange or loud noises from your system, it indicates some issues. If you book an AC repair service on time, you can save a lot. This blog is crafted to educate commercial customers of New Jersey about the common reasons for loud noises from an air conditioner. It also includes the DIY fixes that work more often.

Common Reasons Why Your AC Makes Loud Noises

The reasons are diverse, and so are the solutions. Here, we will only uncover the most popular culprits with respect to New Jersey and its surroundings. 

Clogged Condenser Coils

When the condenser or evaporator coils are clogged, the AC has to work harder to move the air and heat. It forces the motor to operate at a higher-than-normal speed. The result is increased vibration and rattling sounds from the unit.

The Solution: Thoroughly cleaning the coils is the only solution. Spray the coils with a garden hose to remove all the accumulated dirt and dust. Using a specialized coil cleaner is also a good choice if the stains are permanent or if general cleaning doesn’t yield satisfactory results.

Damaged Fan Components

Fan issues directly cause strange noises. Whenever the parts are unbalanced, loose, or there is increased friction in the movement, the result is loud sounds. These sounds, if left unchecked, can lead to inefficiencies, wear and tear, and even complete system failure.

Here are the common fan issues that are important to mention:

  • Worn Bearings/Belt
  • Loose Components
  • Failing Motor
  • Bent Blade

The Solution: The solution lies in a detailed inspection of the fan components and applying professional repair or replacement. Sometimes, the components are in good condition, but they just need lubrication.

AC Older Than 15 Years

Age is also sometimes the causative agent of strange noises. Especially if the unit is older than 15 years. It is because components face natural wear and tear with time. There is also sometimes a change in the shape and surface of the parts. For example, there may arise some alignment issues, frictions, restrictions, or just a lack of efficiency.

The Solution: The solution lies in replacing or retrofitting your old AC unit. Schedule an inspection from a professional company and choose from a new AC system installation or an upgrade, depending on the condition.

Improper Installation

Not always are the strange noises due to component damage. Sometimes the issue is in the installation technique. A slight mistake at the installation stage can have very bad consequences for your system. It also includes the mistakes made while buying a new HVAC system. For example, if you purchase a system without proper load calculation, you may choose an undersized or an oversized system. Similarly, you can make a mistake in choosing the right type of appliance. For example, you get a rooftop unit installation while your space needs a mini-split installation. Both of these cases may result in unusual noises from the system over time.

The Solution: Purchase a new system after proper Manual J, S, and D load calculations. Additionally, choose certified and licensed technicians for the installation job.

Neglected Maintenance

Just like any other appliance, an HVAC system needs regular maintenance. It could be in terms of cleaning the outdoor unit and coils, lubricating motor parts, and compensating the refrigerant. It also needs detailed system inspection at regular intervals. If you ignore or delay maintenance, multiple issues may arise in your system. These issues interrupt the smooth process of AC and lead to unusual sounds.

The Solution: Never ignore maintenance and never leave it to an inexperienced technician. It is better if you go with an annual maintenance plan with a professional company such as Lehigh HVAC.

How to Prevent AC from Making Strange Noises

Having proper knowledge of AC issues is important to prevent such issues in the future. While we have briefly summarized the causes and possible fixes of AC sound issues. Now, we would like to provide you with the best tips and tricks to keep your system away from such issues.

  • Schedule professional maintenance regularly.
  • Optimize airflow and replace air filters.
  • Removed dirt, dust, and buildup from the outdoor unit
  • Upgrade the faulty components on time
  • Tighten or lubricate the motor components

Final Words

In normal operation, an AC never produces loud noises. It only operates quietly with a little bit of operational sounds. When you hear loud or bizarre noises, it means there is something wrong with the unit. Inspect the system, check the possible components with failures, and apply the fixes when you identify the cause. If you are not sure which part is malfunctioning, call for professional help.

For AC issues in New Jersey and surroundings, Lehigh HVAC is the top choice for repairs. Call us at 484-961-7044 to book a service or get an estimate.

Frequently Asked Questions:

It is most of the time due to an electrical issue. The possible causes include a failing capacitor, loose wiring, or a malfunctioning compressor contactor. Shut the system off immediately to prevent fire hazards.

It is often due to a worn-out fan belt or increased pressure inside the compressor. The belts may fray due to heavy usage in the summer season.

It indicates a seized fan motor or a refrigerant leak. If the motor tries to turn on but can’t, it will keep humming until it is burned.

It is a sign of loose or broken parts. It may also arise due to an out-of-balance blower fan.

No, ignoring small noise means major failures ahead. When you notice unusual sounds, get your system inspected and restored. Using it unrepaired may cause a sudden failure when there is an intense heat wave.