Fix the Noise To fix the clanking sounds your air conditioner is making, turn off the system and call a professional to make repairs.
If you hear a buzzing from your air conditioner when it's not running, you should turn it off right away and call a professional for help. Because it may be a sign of an electrical problem, it's too dangerous to try to fix it yourself.
Compressor Malfunction. The compressor is one of the most important parts of your AC unit and is also one of the most common causes of loud buzzing sounds. If the compressor is not working properly, it can make a lot of noise as it tries to start up or cool down the unit.
If your air conditioner makes whooshing a noise, that's also not a problem. You will always hear light and gentle whooshing noises when your AC is on. There's air moving through there that makes a sound. This will get louder as you walk under vents.
If, on inspection, you hear chattering, whining, squealing, chirping, or rattling sounds coming from the AC compressor, it is time for AC service. Sometimes the commotion only erupts when you engage the AC switch. Some noises remain constant. Compressor noises result from either a faulty clutch or a seizing shaft.
Common causes of air conditioner noise include loose parts, dirty filters, improperly mounted units, debris around the unit, and bent or damaged fins. You can fix most noises by tightening screws and bolts, cleaning or replacing filters, securing unit mounts, clearing debris, and straightening fins.
It's recommended that you service your home air conditioning system at least once every year. The same goes for your heating system.
On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one. However, your price will vary depending on factors like the size and brand of your compressor. Before you schedule your replacement, read on to learn about all AC compressor cost factors.
A hum usually indicates the steady drive of the outside fan blade and motor, but a humming or buzzing sound could also indicate a mechanical or electrical issue.
A jet engine sound may be produced if the condenser fan in the outdoor unit is working improperly. The noise may indicate an accumulation of dirt and debris within the unit or an electrical issue with the fan.
Use Sound Blankets
Consider installing soundproofing materials around the AC, like a sound blanket. These materials are specifically designed to muffle or dampen the noise AC units generate. You can also find out from the AC manufacturer which blankets are made for your model.
Loose or Damaged Blower Components
Over time, the various components of your HVAC blower can loosen or sustain damage. Loose fan blades, motor mounts, or deteriorating belts can cause vibrations and rattling sounds.
Many common issues that cause your AC unit to make excess noise are easy to resolve. Clear away any debris in and around your outdoor unit before you turn it on. Clean your vents and ducts regularly and inspect your system for damage, including holes, kinks, and loose parts. Tighten what you can.
While every unit is different, and every homeowner has a different understanding of when their central air conditioner is broken beyond repair, it's fair to say that, with proper maintenance and care, you can expect a good 15 to 20 years of cooling from a new high efficiency air conditioning system.
A sure sign of a bad AC capacitor is a humming sound from within the access panel.
Any other noise in your air conditioner compressor should be a cause for concern. Essentially, if you have to question whether or not a problem is blossoming, have an HVAC technician check it a soon as possible. While you might be tempted to try and repair your air conditioner yourself, this is highly discouraged.
Most compressors have the same or similar life expectancies as traditional AC units. They typically break down after 15 years but can last longer with proper maintenance. Many people believe replacing their air conditioner's compressor is more cost-effective once it gives out.
While you may have been cautioned against this by well-meaning friends or family, in most cases it's perfectly fine to keep your home's central AC system running continuously.
Generally speaking, to have a shop properly change an AC compressor and related components, flush, and re-fill the AC system will run between $750 – 1500.00. Depending on the model and cost of the parts in general, this cost could be even higher.
The Short Answer Is: High-pitched squealing noise, banging noise, clicking noise, buzzing noise, hissing noise, rattling noise, and other loud sounds coming from your air conditioner all mean there is something within the system that needs to be replaced or repaired.