Strange Noises: What Your AC Unit is Telling You

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Person pressing ear on AC unit Yorba Linda, CA

Yorba Linda, CA, known for its pleasant climate and scenic landscapes, is a city where residents often rely on their home air conditioning systems to maintain indoor comfort during the warm months. Given the temperature fluctuations, regular AC repair and maintenance are crucial to ensuring that systems operate efficiently and effectively. Fortunately, there are a few signs that can alert you if your AC is on the fritz–one of them is strange noises. Should these unusual noises start coming from your AC unit, be vigilant. You may need to call for immediate air conditioning repair in Yorba Linda, CA.

Here’s a close look at what those noises might be indicating and why you should never ignore them.

Banging or Clanking

If you hear banging or clanking noises, there is likely a loose or broken part inside the compressor. This could be a connecting rod, piston pin, or crankshaft. Alternatively, it might be that the fan blade is hitting something. Either way, this noise is a clear indication that your AC unit needs professional air conditioning maintenance.

Hissing or Whistling

A hissing or whistling noise can point to a refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue because refrigerant is essential for cooling the air. Leaks can lead to a decrease in efficiency and an increase in your energy bills. If you hear hissing or whistling, it’s crucial to contact an air conditioning service technician to check for leaks and refill the refrigerant.

Screeching or Squealing

Screeching or squealing noises often mean that there’s an issue with the motor or the fan belt. Over time, belts can become misaligned or worn out. Ignoring these sounds can lead to more significant problems, including complete motor failure. The good news is that an air conditioning replacement and repair professional can easily replace or adjust the belt to fix the problem.

Clicking

A clicking noise when your AC unit starts or stops is generally normal. However, if the clicking is constant, it could indicate a failing thermostat or a defective control. Continuous clicking is not something to ignore, as it might mean your system is struggling to turn on or off, which can lead to more significant problems down the line.

Strange noises from your AC unit are your system’s way of telling you something is wrong. Ignoring these sounds can lead to costly repairs and discomfort in your home. At Eagle Air Co., we specialize in diagnosing and fixing all types of AC issues. Don’t wait until a minor problem turns into a major one. We’re the pros you can count on for everything from air conditioning installation to maintenance and repairs. Reach out to us today to schedule an inspection and ensure your AC unit runs smoothly and quietly all season long!