A lot of times, you might be able to hear warning signs from your AC before they turn into costly repairs. Yes, those odd sounds you’re hearing could indicate an issue that needs to be addressed by a professional. An “audible test” is something you can do to listen for unusual noises from your unit that might indicate a problem. All Year Cooling and Plumbing is going to dive more into what an audible test is and what kind of noises you can listen for when performing this test on your AC unit.
Why Should You Listen to Your AC Unit?
Listening to your AC unit can help you detect odd noises that might indicate something is wrong. These warning sounds can alert you to a problem before it becomes a costly repair. Escalated issues are often more expensive to fix. Catching problems early can save you money and ensure that you get professional help before an emergency occurs. Once you know these warning sounds, it will be easier in the future to recognize what is normal and what is not.
Common AC Sounds You Can Listen Out For
There are many different AC sounds, and they can indicate potential issues. AC units are naturally noisy, so knowing which sounds are abnormal can help you identify problems. Here’s a list of some of the top AC unit sounds you should watch for and what problem they could indicate.
This sound is quite recognizable because it is very different from regular AC unit sounds. The noise levels can range from a loud bang to a clank. Usually, this indicates broken or loose parts inside the unit. Leaving it unrepaired can cause further damage to other parts.
Screeching
Screeching typically comes from a misaligned belt or motor issues. This can lead to broken belts and a full motor breakdown, leaving you without AC and facing a costly repair.
Humming or Buzzing
Humming or buzzing sounds from your AC unit could indicate motor failure, loose wiring, or electrical issues. Electrical problems can create safety hazards and reduce the unit’s performance.
Clicking
Clicking during startup or shutdown is normal and not a cause for concern. However, constant clicking could indicate an electrical problem.
Hissing
Hissing usually indicates air escaping from ducts or refrigerant leaks. Refrigerant leaks can cause cooling problems, while air escaping in the ducts can reduce efficiency.
Silence
Silence when the AC should be running can indicate a mechanical or electrical issue. Your unit may not be functioning at all, leading to insufficient cooling.
How to Do an Audible Test
Performing an audible test is important for homeowners because it can help avoid costly repairs. Spend about 10 minutes listening to your AC unit without outside noise. Refer to our list of noises to identify what is normal and what is not. Make note of any abnormal sounds so you can accurately describe them to a professional.
When Should You Call a Professional?
If you notice abnormal noises after performing an audible test, first check if the problem can be resolved by the homeowner. For example, rattling could be caused by loose screws or something near the unit. If you’ve inspected all possible areas and the noises persist, it’s time to contact a professional like All Year Cooling and Plumbing. They can inspect your AC unit and identify additional problems that may not produce audible warnings. This ensures problems are addressed before they cause further damage or costly repairs.
It’s important to listen to your AC unit frequently to monitor for issues and avoid shutdowns. In Florida’s heat, keeping your family cool is essential. Performing regular audible tests at home can help. If you hear abnormal noises, contact us as soon as possible to restore your unit to full efficiency and prevent further problems.