Air Conditioning Noise Concerns

Very few central air conditioners (AC) are whisper-silent. A certain amount of noise coming from your ductwork is not uncommon. It is normal to hear the blowers spinning, among other parts of the cooling process. 

Additionally, air conditioning equipment produces more sounds as it ages—not always because of a mechanical problem. However, if you’ve owned your unit for a decade or longer, it might be time for a replacement. 

Fortunately, air conditioning units have become much more efficient in recent years. You can cut energy costs up to 40 percent by upgrading your unit if it is 10 years or older, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Have a Coastal Air Plus expert evaluate your air conditioner today—we’re always happy to help our South Carolina customers save money and get the most value from your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.

Plus, our financing plans help you purchase the HVAC equipment your family deserves! Now, let’s learn about AC noises.

Air Conditioning Noises and What They Mean

While some noise is normal, keep an ear out for unusual sounds. Remember, it’s best to catch problems early. If you think your Myrtle Beach air conditioning unit needs repair, give us a call right away.

Here are some common noises and what they could mean for your air conditioner: 

Popping
Popping means there may be an issue with your ventilation system. It usually points to an airflow obstruction inside your ductwork. Like many HVAC mishaps, you can help avoid this issue with seasonal maintenance. 

Rattling
Rattling likely means a part in your AC has come loose. On some occasions, it’s a harmless problem. For instance, a stray nut or bolt may have fallen off your equipment. Or, it might mean a small object fell into a floor vent. On other occasions, it could point to a more serious issue—such as a loose compressor, which is costly to replace. If you hear rattling, it’s always the safest bet to call your HVAC specialist. 

Grinding
If you hear the sound of metal grinding together, this could indicate a problem. The noise could be coming from a failing fan motor. Alternately, it may mean a bearing has become worn. Either way, have an HVAC specialist look at it as soon as possible. 

Hissing
Hissing coming from your ducts may mean you’re experiencing a refrigerant leak. You may also notice an odd chemical smell. This problem needs to be addressed by a professional right away.

Maintenance Matters

Preventative maintenance plays a vital role in the efficiency of all your HVAC equipment. Schedule your air conditioning tune-up in the early spring and a furnace tune-up in the fall. That way, you prepare your system for the season. Plus, you give our techs a chance to uncover a minor issue before it turns into a costly repair. Call us today to schedule a tune-up.

And be sure to ask about our maintenance agreements tailored to save you money on parts, labor, and repairs!