October 11, 2022
When the heat of summer or the chill of winter has you heading to the thermostat to make your home more comfortable, the last thing you want to hear is an unsettling noise coming from your HVAC vents. How can you know which noises require your immediate attention, before it turns into an expensive HVAC emergency?
Here are the common noises your furnace, air conditioner, or heat pump could be making, as well as what you can do to prevent these HVAC noises and problems in the future.
Loud Clanging or Banging Noise When Turning Your AC On
A loud and sudden noise that occurs right as your furnace or air conditioner turns on is a clear indication that something has gone awry in your heating or cooling system. This noise can stem from an obstruction in the compressor or blower fan, or a damaged part that is begging to be replaced.
Russells recommends you turn your system off immediately and seek professional furnace or air conditioner repair. Even if you are feeling the desired air coming from your vents after you hear this noise, there could still be a serious problem with your equipment.
Buzzing Sounds
A persistent buzzing noise can be caused by a number of things, depending on where the buzzing sound is coming from. This kind of sound can potentially be heard from the air vents, from the compressor unit outside, or even from the air filter intake, and usually means there is an obstruction of some kind. A more acute diagnosis might be leaves and debris in the compressor fan, an air filter that has become too clogged, or even the existence of a refrigerant leak (this can also sound more like a hissing noise).
Rattling
Depending on the severity of the noise, a rattling sound in your heating and cooling system likely means you have a loose part somewhere. It could be something as small as a screw. It could also be your fan or debris like twigs or leaves that have gotten into the condenser unit outside. It also might signal that your compressor motor is dying.
Persistent Clicking or Humming Noise
If you notice a consistent clicking noise or a loud hum while your system is running, the most common culprit would be an electrical issue. Diagnosing and repairing an electrical issue can be somewhat dangerous, as the risk of shock is high. If you are hearing a clicking sound coming from your HVAC system, call in a professional air conditioning technician to get your system up and running again.
Trust your Ears — You Know Your System!
Don’t see the HVAC noise you are looking for described here? No one knows your “normal” HVAC sounds better than you do! If you suspect something is a little off, chances are you are right. The team at Russell’s Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical is here to answer your questions, and you can rest easy knowing we will give you an honest assessment of your HVAC needs.
Russell’s Can Bring You Quiet Comfort and Prevent Future HVAC Issues
If you’re a Hampton Roads area homeowner dealing with strange noises coming from your AC or furnace, we don’t recommend waiting the problem out. Ignoring HVAC problems often makes them worse, so call Russell’s today for help!
Once your issue has been resolved, it is extremely important to keep it that way! The best way to avoid future HVAC noises and other issues is through regular HVAC maintenance. Signing up for a maintenance plan will not only ensure your heating and cooling equipment is taken care of each year, but you will also reap the benefits of these added perks:
Savings on diagnostic fee - Plan members pay only $32
15% discount on repairs - 3 year warranty on repairs included with continuous enrollment
Priority scheduling
Regular maintenance - No overtime charges
Whether you are in the middle of an HVAC conundrum or looking to avoid one in the near future, Russell’s has the solution for you!
