Don’t Ignore Strange AC Noises: A Warning Sign Guide

Jul 17 2018

russelladmin

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Strange Noises in Your Air Conditioning

Scientists have yet to invent self-repairing air conditioners, and the ACs found in homes do not come equipped with a computer that can analysis malfunctions and correctly report any problems to their owners. When it comes to detecting that your air conditioning system has a repair need so you know to call for a professional technician, you have to use other clues. One of the most important of these is sound.

Odd noises from either the indoor or the outdoor cabinet of your AC almost always means that something is wrong with the system. Don’t ignore these warnings: call for air conditioning repair in Palm Springs, CA from Russell’s Heating and Air Conditioning. We have more than 30 years of history taking care of the AC needs of the Desert Communities, and there isn’t a malfunction that we haven’t seen—or remedied.

What Those Noises Could Be Telling You

The odd sounds from your air conditioning could indicate problems large or small. However, small problem willbecome large problems if they are ignored, so you should call for repairs no matter what.

• Hissing: This sound often warns that there is refrigerant escaping somewhere in the system. Low refrigerant will cause a drop in cooling, but worse, it can potentially cause damage to the compressor (leading to it overheating and burning out) and lead to ice developing across the indoor evaporator coil. Low refrigerant must be remedied as soon as possible.
• Mechanical grinding, groaning, shrieking: These noises are often a warning of trouble with the motors, such as low lubrication or dirt on the bearings. The motors may burn-out if not attended to, which will lead to non-functioning fans or the compressor.
• Striking and banging: This is often trouble in the blower or the outdoor fan due to damage that has bent the blades, leading to the fan striking the outer casing. If not repaired, this damage will spread to other components and lead to even large repairs.
• Clicking at start-up: If you hear clicking noises as the air conditioner’s compressor comes on, it usually indicates that the capacitors that start the motors and keep them running are starting to fail. When capacitors fail, the motors will no longer be able to run.

Any unusual sound from an AC means that the system is wearing down someplace where it shouldn’t, and you can expect to start paying more on your electric bills until the air conditioner stops working entirely. The moment that you detect one of these noises, shut down the AC and call a skilled professional.

You can depend on the team at Russell’s Heating and Air Conditioning to handle any needs you have for air conditioning repairs in Palm Springs, CA. We have 24-hour emergency service available, so you don’t have to let that warning sound in your AC continue for one moment longer than necessary.