Some years back, HVAC systems used to produce a lot of noise. However, today’s systems are quieter than ever. Modern HVAC systems boast a sound dampening technology that helps tow down the noise, and the only sound you should hear is a low hum or whoosh when they are kicking in. The bugging question is; what if your HVAC starts producing some loud noises? What does this mean, and what action should you take. In this piece, we’ll go through the common HVAC noises and what they indicate.
Humming and Clanking
As mentioned earlier, An HVAC system should make a soft hum sound when starting. But if the humming is louder or similar to clanking, it could indicate a severe problem. Usually, a clanking sound may mean that some parts in the system are loose, such as screws, blades, pipes, or even a blower motor fan. Sometimes a humming sound may result from loose wiring, failed condenser fan motor, or circuit breaker overload.
If you detect a clanking sound coming from your HVAC, the first thing you should do is to shut it down and contact a professional technician. Failure to address such issues can lead to costly damages.
Hissing Sound
Imagine you’re just relaxing on the couch, and you start hearing a high-pitched hiss coming from your HVAC. A loud hiss potentially means that there is air escaping from your system. If the sound is more like a squeal, it may point to an improperly fitted or a wrong size filter that leaves a gap that allows air to escape from the vents. And if it’s originating from near the walls, it might be the ducts leaking. The problem is not noise pollution, but the fact that the air being lost is meant to circulate inside your home.
For a hissing sound from the ducts, make sure you call a technician to fix it. Don’t try to DIY since duct repairs require immense skills and expertise. However, if it is an issue to do with the filters, you can adjust it or ensure that you place the right filter.
Rattling Sound
A rattling sound could point to a few things. If it’s coming from the outdoor unit, it could mean that the outdoor unit has accumulated some debris, such as rocks, twigs, or grass, stuck inside. With this issue, you can turn off the system, cut the power, and eliminate the debris. If the rattling is internal, it might indicate an electrical problem that should be checked by a qualified technician.
Repeated Clicking Sound
It is usual for electrical components to produce a clicking sound when starting or when shutting down. But if the clicking is constant, this might indicate a problem with your HVAC. It might signal a failing capacitor, a defective control, a faulty thermostat, or an electrical issue in one of the units. Any constant clicking sound should warrant an immediate professional check. Most electrical problems can lead to severe damages, so make sure you switch off the system once you hear a repeated clicking sound.
Bubbling
Any bubbling or gurgling sound from the HVAC may stem from water removal issues to refrigerant leaks. If you detect any bubbling or gurgling noise from your system, switch it off to prevent further damage, and then call your technician.
As explained in the write-up, most noises from your HVAC could indicate serious problems that you can’t fix yourself. If your HVAC is making some unusual noises, contact Beebe Heating & Air Conditioning and let their team of professionals resolve the issues.