Why Is My AC Making Loud Noise?
Homeowners who have never been responsible for HVAC maintenance before may find it to be a little confusing at first. Your HVAC system needs preventive maintenance to stay in good working order, but even well-maintained systems can run into trouble sometimes. Unexplained loud noises could indicate that your unit needs some cleaning, or they could be warning signs that something more serious is wrong. Any time you hear your air conditioner making unusual noises, you should have a technician take a look at the unit. If you want to know more, keep reading to find out why your AC might be making loud noise.
Why is your AC making loud noises?
Quiet operation is one of the benefits of using a ductless AC system, so it’s understandable for homeowners to be concerned if they notice their AC making loud noise. There are several common causes of loud noises from your air conditioner. If you hear a banging noise, it’s likely the result of loose components. This can happen through normal wear and tear, especially near the end of your unit’s life span. A faulty fan motor is another possible cause of loud noise, though the noise is typically described as screeching rather than banging.
Your AC may also be making loud noises as a result of trapped dust or debris, rather than a mechanical problem with the system itself. Twigs, dirt, and leaves can get into the outdoor compressor unit, which can cause a rattling noise. Cleaning out the unit can solve the problem, though you should have a technician check to make sure it isn’t a faulty electrical connector, which can produce a similar noise.
Proper maintenance is essential if you want to protect your system and extend its life span. That means having it inspected annually, though you should always have a technician look over the unit if you think something might be wrong. The filter in your air conditioner will also need to be changed at least once every 90 days, though most HVAC professionals recommend changing it on a monthly basis. The average HVAC system has a life span of about 10 to 15 years, so you may want to look into a replacement if yours is older than that.
How else can you maintain your desired indoor temperature?
There are a lot of things you can do to keep your home at your desired temperature beyond just using your HVAC system. However, if you want to make your HVAC system more effective, you should look into upgrading to a smart thermostat. Programmable thermostats have a lot of benefits, from giving you more control over heating and cooling your home to helping lower your energy costs by preventing unnecessary usage.
Smaller changes around the house can also help maintain a comfortable indoor climate. For example, cracks and crevices in your window frames can let in outdoor air, which can make your home warmer or cooler than you want it to be. You can purchase long drapes for an extra layer of insulation, but you should always make it a priority to repair these imperfections if you want to avoid higher utility bills and inconsistent temperatures.
Loud noises from your AC can have a number of possible causes. Some of them may necessitate a major repair, or even a replacement, while others can be remedied with a little bit of cleaning. It’s impossible for someone without expertise to know the difference, which is why it’s always best to call an HVAC technician if you hear any unfamiliar noises from your air conditioner. Home upgrades like a smart thermostat can help make your HVAC system even more effective, though you won’t get the most out of your investment if you don’t keep your home in good condition.
