If your air conditioning unit is starting to make odd or unfamiliar sounds, don’t ignore them. Those noises could be a sign that the unit is failing. Rather than risk a potential breakdown, call an HVAC contractor immediately if you start noticing any of the following sounds.

Unusual Sounds That Can Warrant an AC Repair

1. Clicking, Clanging & Banging

It’s normal for an air conditioner to make some clicking and clanging sounds when it starts up or shuts down. But if these noises are continuous, call your HVAC contractor—it may mean that a spring, bolt, or another piece of hardware has come loose inside the unit. If you notice repeated banging sounds, you may need a new compressor.

2. Squealing

While a squeal here and there shouldn’t be cause for concern, constant squealing and squeaking sounds could mean your A/C unit has a defective part. Outdoor fan motors, blower motors, and blower wheels all start to squeal loudly when they wear down and begin to malfunction. An HVAC contractor will examine your system and determine which part is having a problem.

3. Hissing or Bubbling

If your unit starts to hiss or make bubbling sounds, call your HVAC contractor immediately. These noises are likely a sign that your unit is leaking refrigerant, which is harmful to the environment and needs to be addressed by a professional immediately.

4. Buzzing

A buzzing sound coming from your outdoor unit can mean that debris has collected inside and needs to be cleaned out. It can also be a sign that the condenser coil needs cleaning or the air filter needs to be changed. If you investigate and discover that these problems are not causing the buzzing sound, call your HVAC contractor. It may mean that the outdoor fan motor is malfunctioning, the fan blades are out of balance, or the blower is failing.

If you’re noticing strange sounds coming from your AC unit or HVAC system, the experts at Apollo Refrigeration Inc. can help. Based in Hamden, CT, these licensed HVAC contractors have been providing New Haven County residents and business owners with heating and cooling solutions for more than 40 years. In addition to HVAC installation, inspection, and repair, they also offer commercial refrigeration services. Visit their website to browse their services and call (203) 777-6291 to schedule an appointment.