When your A/C is making unusual noises, that doesn’t always mean you should be concerned. In many cases, the noises can be a simple fix that virtually anyone can take care of, as long as you know what to look for.
Here are some of the more common noises that may occur, at any given time. However, if your A/C is making noises that are not resolved by any remedy listed here, the chances are that your cooling system may need to be inspected and serviced by a qualified technician to keep it running hassle free all summer long.
- A Noisy Fan – Fans should be relatively quiet when running, but if one is humming loudly, it may need to be cleaned. Caked-on dirt or debris may be the culprit, and a dishwater solution and a rag will get the job done. Also, check to make sure the indoor and outdoor coils are not coated with grime or mold, and clean them with a soft brush if dirty. If the fan whirrs and doesn’t seem to be turning at the right speed, the fan mount screw may need to be tightened onto the drive shaft.
- A Flapping Noise – In some cases, a piece of paper, a leaf or another type of debris will get caught on the coil, or behind the exit vents, and flap as the air blows it against the unit. Check directly behind or in front of the fan and remove anything that may be flapping and inhibiting air flow.
- Rattling – If your A/C is making a rattling noise, it may have loose screws or other parts. For example, the screws that hold the case together may loosen over time, and they can simply be re-tightened with a screwdriver.
If at any time there’s an unfamiliar noise and the A/C begins to lose cooling effectiveness or stops running altogether, call in a professional to determine the cause and perform needed repairs.
For more advice about any type of A/C noises coming from your air conditioner, please contact us at Ace Hardware Home Services, serving the Dayton area since 1978.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Dayton, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).
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