When it comes to diagnosing problems with your heating and cooling system, HVAC sounds can be a key piece of the puzzle. In fact, one of the easiest ways to tell that your AC unit might need servicing is the presence of strange HVAC sounds. Depending on what is wrong, you will hear different HVAC sounds, from a high pitched screech to loud thumping. If you notice any of the following HVAC sounds, it is time to contact your heating & air conditioning professionals at Galmiche & Sons so we can address the problem as quickly as possible for you.
Listen Out for These HVAC Sounds
#1: Rattling Compressor: Worst of the HVAC Sounds
Compressor failure is one of the biggest causes of air conditioner breakdowns. If you hear a rattling noise coming from the compressor, get in touch with a service technician immediately. Replacing a compressor can be an expensive repair, so if you hear a loud rattling, turn off the unit right away and have it checked out.
#2: Thwapping
Some HVAC sounds can be downright strange. What is thwapping? It is the sound of something flexible being hit repeatedly. As far as your HVAC system is concerned, this distinctive noise could mean there is something caught in the blower blades. As the flexible blades make contact with the foreign object, you get a thwapping noise.
#3: Loud Banging or Thumping
These are the HVAC sounds that are most obviously a problem. Any time your HVAC system is making loud noises, there is something wrong. If it sounds like a banging or thumping, this could either be an issue with the motor or the casing on your unit. Either issue can be a problem for your HVAC unit, but a motor issue especially can cause extensive damage if left unaddressed. To avoid more extensive air conditioner repairs, have any loud banging or thumping investigated immediately.
#4: High-Pitched Screech
A high-pitched squeal or screech can indicate a few different HVAC issues. It could be an issue with a worn-out belt, a lack of lubrication on various parts, or an issue with bearings in the motor. If the belt is worn out, it should be replaced to prevent it from breaking entirely. A broken belt can cause more damage to the blower and other parts, so don’t leave a worn-out belt in place — the cost of replacement is well worth it. If it is a lubrication issue, a little oil can help stop this most annoying of the HVAC sounds.
#5: Continuous Clicking
While intermittent clicks are normal in a well-functioning HVAC system, if you notice a continuous clicking, this can indicate problems with your compressor or the electrical circuits in your HVAC system. This does not mean that a little more clicking than normal should send you into panic mode, but it is one of the HVAC sounds to look out for if you suspect something might be wrong.
For Help with Interpreting Your HVAC Sounds, Call Galmiche & Sons Today!
While it is not always the case that these HVAC sounds mean something is seriously wrong with your system, if you notice them, look out for other signs of distress, like reduced cooling power or uneven cooling. Taken together, all of these signs can help you catch an HVAC issue early and get in touch with your Galmiche & Sons, your local St. Louis heating & air conditioning team, before it is too late.
