Why Is My Air Conditioner Making A Noise?

Hearing odd noises when your air conditioner is running? There’s probably something wrong with your unit. If you don’t fix it, it could lead to extensive—and expensive—issues later. We’re going to help you find out what’s going on with your air conditioner and what you can do to fix it. 

8 Common Air Conditioning Noises 

  • Gurgling – Gurgling usually indicates a problem with your refrigerant line. If you can’t pinpoint where the noise is emanating from, that’s alright. An expert can help find out where this noise is occurring.
  • Crackling – Crackling could be due to debris in the unit or aging ductwork. Debris in the outdoor unit will create a noise outside your house. Mature ductwork can cause noise inside your house.
  • Hissing – Hissing sounds coming from your AC can be caused by a faulty refrigerant line, an internal valve leak or the compressor.
  • Buzzing – Buzzing is no doubt an electrical issue.
  • Clicking – Clicking can indicate you have a loose part or that the fan is misaligned.
  • Pulsating – Pulsating can come from a loose part.
  • Loud Noise – A noticeable noise from your external unit can mean an issue with your compressor, damper, fan or air handler.
  • Humming – Humming can begin with fan motor issues or a broken relay switch. Read through our humming noise guide for more information. 

You can find more information about prevalent air conditioning issues on energy.gov 

Should I keep using my AC when it’s making a noise? 

There are a few cases where you can continue to run your AC, but you do so at your own risk. It’s difficult to answer this question without inspecting your system. 

In most cases, we recommend shutting off the unit off and calling a professional. 

When should I do something about the noise? 

We recommend calling a professional as soon as you think there’s something wrong with your system. While AC repairs can be stressful and an unexpected spend, it’s smart to get problems corrected right away. Getting a professional could help lower future expenses and keep your system running longer. 

Not sure if your air conditioner is making any of these noises? Please schedule online for a free, in-home consultation. 

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >
Offer

10% OFF FOR ACTIVE DUTY OR VETERANS

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

10% OFF Any Product or Service*
For all Active-Duty, Retired, and Veteran Military Personnel 

  • It’s our way of thanking you for your courage, dedication, and sacrifice to protect our freedom
  • All worked performed by licensed experts, and backed by a written, 100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Service Experts is proud to be affiliated with Military Makeover and Hiring Our Heroes

Excludes memberships and 1” disposable filters.
Offer not valid on prior purchases and may not be combined with other offers.

print
Offer

THREE LIMITED-TIME WAYS TO SAVE WITH AN ADVANTAGE PROGRAM BUNDLE

  • Bundle two HVAC systems through the Advantage Program and save $20 a month!
  • Bundle an HVAC and a Water Heater or Water Treatment System through the Advantage Program and save $15 a month!
  • Bundle a Water Heater a Water Treatment System or Indoor Air Quality through the Advantage Program and save $10 a month!

print

© 2024 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.

Schedule Online

Chat with a Service Experts Professional
❌