Now that the summer heat has been setting in across the country, you are beginning to depend on your air conditioner. After all, Clarksville gets warm too, and with everyone home, you want to be sure to keep everyone comfortable.
So as you enjoy the benefits of the cooler air, there are certainly some signs your air conditioner may need attention. Keep your ears open for the following sounds. When you hear any of these sounds, it is time to make schedule a professional AC service call.
Hissing can Lead to an AC Service Call
Hissing can be an indicator of a major problem. On the minor side, hissing can simply imply a problem with your air filter. If you notice there is a reduction in airflow, check to be sure your filters are not clogged.
However, hissing can also be an indicator of a much more significant problem, a refrigerant leak. There are minor leaks and then more significant leaks. If you are hearing hissing, it is likely you have a more significant leak.
With a refrigerant leak, you may experience restricted airflow as well as air that is not as cool. If you suspect you have a refrigerant leak, shut off your unit, and call a professional technician. They will work to identify where the leak is and help you determine the right solution. A professional technician will work to recapture the refrigerant to reduce the impact on the atmosphere. (continue below)
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Humming or Buzzing
Some minor humming or buzzing is normal for some air conditioners. However, it should not last very long. If it does, it means there is likely a problem with the electrical components in your system.
If the humming is coming from the outdoor unit, you may have a problem with a few different components. First is the capacitor, which stores energy to “jump start” the condenser fan motor. Next is the condenser fan motor itself. If this isn’t spinning, it will emit a loud buzzing sound.
Finally is the contactor relay switch, which is the switch that completes the circuit for your air conditioner to start. There are a number of parts in a contactor that will wear, causing it not to work properly and buzz.
The safest way to fix any of these problems is to call a professional to diagnose and solve them. There is a significant risk of injury when working on your exterior unit, especially from electrical shock.
Rattling
Rattling is an interesting sound and most people associate it with the thought of something being loose. This holds true when it comes to your heating and cooling system. The first step in dealing with a rattling is to determine its source. This will help you identify the problem so you can fix it.
One of the commonly forgotten areas is the ductwork running through the house. This can create a rattling when something has come loose, such as the duct straps. If ignored, this simple rattling can turn into a full tear and more expensive to repair.
Other rattling sounds may come from the exterior unit. This is again indicative something that has come loose, including the fan, fan motor, an electrical component, or more. Caught early it may be as simple as tightening a screw. It may otherwise result in expensive part replacements.
Screeching or Screaming
A screeching or screaming sound can feel like someone scratching nails on a chalkboard. To others, it may sound like metal grinding on metal. Regardless of what it feels like for you, this is a sound you need to pay particular attention to and address quickly.
In most cases, this atrocious sound comes from the condenser fan motor. It could be caused by an unbalanced fan blade, a worn fan belt, and a malfunctioning motor. Regardless of what is causing the sound, you want to schedule an AC service call as soon as possible.
Clicking, Clunking, or Banging
This should concern you if you hear it, and is a good reason to call an air conditioning technician in Clarksville. This sound usually only has a few meanings. The most common is an issue with the compressor itself. If this is the cause, it will likely mean replacing the compressor. You need a professional to do this repair to recapture all the refrigerant before beginning the work. They will then be able to vacuum test the system and recharge it.
Other clunking and banging sounds can be caused by something in the unit being banged by the fan movement. It can also be attributed to a loose component, similar to what would cause some rattling.
Heading Off Major Repairs
It is important to call a qualified technician to perform maintenance on your system if you hear any of these sounds. Ignoring them could quickly lead to more damage and more expensive repairs.
Call an Experienced Professional if Your System is Malfunctioning
Do you have an extremely old system? Are you seeing or hearing things that weren’t there before? If you suspect that the system is not working properly, you should call a professional as soon as possible.
A few signs that the system is in trouble include abnormal noises or smells, an extremely cold home, expensive bills, and frequent shutoffs. Regardless of the concern, an experienced professional can solve the problem and perform the necessary repairs before an emergency occurs.
Prevention and AC Tune-up costs are much more reasonable than having a costly repair later. Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by, the professionals at DOC Heating and Cooling are ready to help. The highly-trained technicians are available 24/7 for emergency calls and for regular maintenance to help keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
Whether you live in Clarksville, TN or somewhere close by we are ready to help. Our highly trained technicians are available 24/7 to keep your heating & cooling system running smoothly.
