The amount of use most AC systems get over the summer means issues are likely to arise at some point. Keeping an eye out for any issues with your AC system and promptly getting the problem fixed is key for ensuring your home stays comfortable and preventing your electricity bills from increasing. Prompt AC repairs are also important for protecting the life of your AC system.
One thing you should always be aware of is strange noises coming from the indoor or outdoor parts of the system, which signal that the system needs repair. Let’s discuss the various issues that can cause an AC system to make strange noises and the noises you shouldn’t ignore.
Worn-Out Bearings
The compressor, condenser fan and blower in modern AC systems all use bearings to drive their motors. With continual use, these bearings will often begin to wear out and eventually need to be replaced. It’s usually quite easy to tell if the bearings in any of the motors are wearing out because the motor may make a loud screeching or squealing noise. If you ever hear this type of sound, you need to schedule a service call immediately to have the bearings replaced.
Worn-out bearings lead to increased friction, which in turn can result in the motor overheating and no longer working because it has burned out. Replacing the bearings typically doesn’t cost more than a few hundred dollars, which is much less than you’ll have to pay to replace the entire motor. This is especially true if the compressor motor burns out, as replacing it typically costs well over $1,000.
Electrical Issues
Electrical issues are always a serious concern due to the risk of them causing a short circuit and major power surge. Power surges always have the potential to fry components like the control board, motors, and capacitors. Electrical issues aren’t always something you’ll notice, but they can sometimes result in the AC system buzzing or humming. The risk of major damage occurring or your AC being destroyed due to an electrical issue is why these noises are another thing you shouldn’t ignore.
Failed Start or Run Capacitor
The motors in an AC system require large amounts of power to start up and continue running smoothly. Capacitors are like large batteries that store and release power. The start capacitor releases its stored energy when the system is starting up, providing the extra boost of energy the motors need to turn on and run at full speed. Once the motors are running, the run capacitor then continually supplies additional power to ensure they run smoothly.
AC capacitors can usually last 10 to 20 years before they can no longer hold a charge and stop working. However, they can sometimes wear out in as little as five years, especially in hotter climates where the AC system must run much more. Failed capacitors are a concern, as they can shorten the lifespan of the motors. In the case of a failed start capacitor, your AC won’t even be able to turn on.
If the run capacitor fails, it will often result in one or all the motors being excessively loud or making a humming or buzzing noise. A failed start capacitor will also usually result in the motors humming but not turning on. A repeated clicking noise from the outdoor unit as it attempts to turn on is also a sure sign that the start capacitor has failed.
Failing Compressor
A loud humming or buzzing noise coming from the outdoor unit can also indicate that the compressor is starting to give out and must work harder. The compressor is the heart of an AC system, and you won’t be able to run your air conditioning if it fails. You need to take these kinds of noises seriously, as they can indicate your AC may soon fail.
Refrigerant Leak
The refrigerant in an AC system is always under quite a bit of pressure. If there’s a leak in one of the coils, any of the connections or the copper lines, the high pressure means that the refrigerant will often produce an audible hissing sound as it escapes. A refrigerant leak is a serious concern, as the AC system will cool less effectively. If you don’t seek professional help, at some point, the system will run out of refrigerant and not be able to cool at all. The evaporator coil can start to freeze up frequently if the refrigerant level is too low, which will also prevent the system from being able to cool.
Loose Components
If you hear your AC making a rattling sound, it often indicates that a component has started to come loose. This isn’t always something that requires immediate attention, although the noise can be quite annoying. That said, if the component eventually comes loose, it can create additional issues or prevent your AC from being able to run.
Excessive Vibration
A rattling sound can also be a sign that the outdoor AC unit is not level and out of balance. This can cause the condenser fan to vibrate excessively. AC units usually have rubber feet on the bottom that isolate the unit from the ground to reduce the amount of vibration. These feet can wear out over time and cause the unit to vibrate more and start rattling. Neither of these issues will usually result in damage, but excessive vibration does increase the chance of wiring and various other parts coming loose. The vibration can also loosen the joints between the refrigerant lines and the condenser coil, resulting in a refrigerant leak.
Understanding the Importance of Professional AC Repair
When dealing with any issues with your AC system, it’s best to call a professional to repair the faulty parts. You need to be aware that the manufacturer can void your warranty if you do any DIY work or have anyone other than a certified AC service technician repair or maintain any part of your AC system.
Also, there are many repairs you won’t be able to correctly do yourself. Without years of professional training, it can often be difficult to even know what the problem is and how to fix it. Even if you can determine the problem, there’s a high chance that you’ll cause further issues and make things worse unless you know exactly what you’re doing. Hiring a professional provides long-lasting results by ensuring the issue will be properly diagnosed and repaired.
Since 1991, Snowbird Heating & Cooling is one of the leading HVAC contractors in Lakeland, FL, and the Polk County area. You can depend on us for all your cooling and heating needs. Our experienced technicians can expertly handle the full range of AC repairs and will properly diagnose whatever problems your system has. Scheduling annual maintenance or signing up for our maintenance agreement is a great way to avoid any issues and enjoy superior indoor comfort all year long.
When problems with your AC or heating in the Lakeland area arise, contact Snowbird Heating & Cooling for prompt, professional service.
