We’re sure most homeowners can’t really say they’re looking forward to summer temperatures, but what we can all collectively agree on is that we need powerful and efficient air conditioners to get us through the coming warm weather. If your air conditioner isn’t operating quite like it should, now is the time to address it.
This means that if your air conditioner is running, but has some troubling systems–such as strange and unfamiliar noises coming from the system–then it’s time to give us a call.
We’re talking about any noises that are outside of the normal operational sounds you hear it make from day to day. This can include shrieking or screeching, a grinding sound, and even hissing. Read on to learn what these noises might mean, and if any of these describe the sounds you’re listening to, give us a call right away.
Shrieking/Screeching
We’re referring to a pretty loud, mechanical screeching sound. This is most commonly an indication of a motor problem, or at least it’s a sign that your motor bearings are wearing down. The latter is a typical part of air conditioner wear and tear, but it still needs to be remedied right away.
The reason for this is that worn-down motor bearings can create too much friction on the motor, permanently damaging it. Our technicians will quickly and accurately replace the bearings in order to save your motor and prevent further damage.
Grinding
A grinding sound is another potential sign of a motor issue. It’s typically caused by a motor that has accumulated too much dust or has lost too much lubrication. Like the above problem, this is part of typical wear and tear, and it’s something we’ll check during maintenance, but it is still not something you want to ignore.
Neglecting a problem such as this can lead to serious problems with your air conditioner.
Rattling
The good news about rattling is that it might be caused by nothing more than a loose cabinet door, which you can probably fix on your own with a few turns of a screwdriver. If, however, that doesn’t do the trick, the problem might be more serious.
For instance, you could be hearing a loose component in your system, or your ductwork has become damaged and is rattling excessively at a joint.
Hissing/Bubbling
Depending on where you hear this noise within your system, it can sound like a hissing or bubbling noise, and it indicates a refrigerant leak.
There’s a common misconception among homeowners that refrigerant is a fuel, and depletes much like gasoline does from a car. On the contrary, upon manufacturing your air conditioner is supplied with enough refrigerant to last its entire lifespan. So if your system is losing refrigerant, it means there is a leak that must be located and repaired. Your system will also need to be refilled, or what we call recharged in the industry.
An air conditioner low on refrigerant will not be able to effectively or efficiently cool your home, and can lead to important components becoming damaged, like the compressor.
For professional AC repair in Monroe, GA, look no further than Wall Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Contact us today!