Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?

With the scorching summers in the Dallas area, some noise is to be expected as your air conditioner tries hard to keep up with the heat, but if the noise becomes louder, it changes, or a new noise occurs, there may be something wrong with the system. It is important to identify the cause of any abnormal noises so that you can prevent breakdowns or costly damage to your air conditioning system.

My AC Is Louder Than Normal

Between service visits, an air conditioner can collect dust, dirt, and debris, causing the system to run longer and operate louder due to airflow restrictions and turbulence. The debris can also interfere with the heat transfer process, increasing the workload on the system, and collect on moving components like fans, throwing them out of balance. Normal wear on belts and bearings increases noise as well, while old, dried-up lubricants can increase friction and wear on components like blower motors, pulleys, and fans.

Staying current with the routine maintenance of your air conditioner will prevent many of these problems while keeping your energy costs to a minimum and increasing the service life of your system. Be sure to schedule air conditioner maintenance at least once a year, and consider signing up for a preventative maintenance plan to make the process simple and cost-effective.

If you have an older AC system that has always been loud, upgrading to a variable-speed blower may be an option to quiet it down, as well as a complete AC replacement. If your air conditioner is over 15 years old, installing a new system can offer quieter operation, significantly improved comfort, lower energy costs, and other great benefits.

My AC Is Making New or Different Noises

Noises that are new, have changed, or are significantly louder may be an indication of a major problem with your air conditioner, such as a failing compressor, bad blower motor bearings, or mechanical damage. Call an AC repair service if you notice any of the following sounds:

• Humming or buzzing – If the sound is coming from the interior portion of your air conditioner, it may indicate an electrical problem or a blower motor that has failed to start. Similar sounds from the outside may point to a compressor failure, a condenser fan failure, a damaged relay, or a faulty capacitor.
• Screaming or screeching – A loose belt on a blower fan could cause screeching, but it may also be damaged bearings in a blower motor or a failing compressor.
• Clicking or tapping – Occasional or frequent clicking may indicate a faulty relay or contactor, while constant clicking or tapping may be caused by a damaged belt or debris caught in a fan.
• Rattling or clanking – Loose access covers can often cause abnormal noises, but rattling or clanking can also be caused by loose or misaligned parts like fans, as well as debris caught in moving components.

Taking swift action to diagnose unusual AC sounds can often save money on repairs while protecting your system from damage.

Air Conditioning Repair in Dallas & Plano, TX

When you need reliable, cost-effective air conditioner repairs in the Dallas area, trust our experts at Total Air & Heat. We have been serving Dallas and Plano since 1957, providing top-quality heating, air conditioning, and air quality services.

Call 972-881-0020 or contact us online to schedule AC services today!