Regardless of price, your HVAC system is bound to make some noise. Not all noises denote disaster. Usually you will hear a low hum as the system emits air. This is a normal sound and eventually you become immune to the noise. But there are other, more unsettling noises you do need to pay attention to. These alarming sounds include:
Thumping, Rattling, or Banging
This is often an unpleasant, ominous sound that many times indicates trouble brewing. Usually this means a fastener or other component is not tight enough and has come loose. You want to fix this problem as soon as possible, before you get more damage from the loose part.
Prolonged Squealing
Most often this type of sound is associated with the blower motor. If it is a belt, that is a fairly inexpensive repair. It could also be a bearing problem, which can easily be resolved with the right lubricant. If those simple repairs do not correct the squealing, then it is time to consult with an HVAC professional.
Loud Whistles
Loud screaming or whistles often mean you have a refrigerant leak. That, or something is causing excessive internal pressure inside your HVAC system. Both of these instances could prove dangerous.
Thwapping or Metal on Metal Scraping
It could sound like the noise of something caught and hitting the spokes of a bike tire. Or it could sound like metal scraping against metal. If you hear either of these noises coming from the fan, shut off the unit right away. These usually mean the blades are obstructed and the repeated contact could damage the blades or the motor. A bent fan blade could also crush the coils or result in a refrigerant leak.
Clicking from the Outdoor Unit
The capacitor is a short term battery supply for your blower motor, outside fan, and compressor. When you turn your unit on and off, clicking is normal. However, prolonged clicking, especially from inside the cabinet, is cause for alarm. Like any battery, the capacitor wears out or fails. This can put an unsafe amount of strain on the compressor. The part could overheat and become damaged beyond repair. In turn this could put your entire furnace at risk.
Buzzing
This indicates excessive vibration. It can come from connecting parts or the motor itself. You will want to tighten down anything that has come loose. If it is still buzzing, the motor might be on its way out.
Hissing
Again, air rushing through the vents is expected. But a harsher hissing is a sign that your ductwork is not sealed properly or you have a coolant leak.
Rumbling
Here you likely have a problem with the burner. More specifically, the burners might be dirty, as the unit churns out heat the buildup can restrict air flow. You can turn off the furnace and the power supply and try cleaning the burners with a vacuum.
If any of these sounds are familiar to you, then you want to get in touch with Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning as soon as possible. We can dispatch an HVAC technician to come and check out your system, make air conditioning repairs San Jose, CA , and get your system running as it should. Get in touch by calling (669) 219-8957 or visiting us at 1045 N 10th St San Jose, CA 95112.
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