It is summertime in Boston, and after a mild spring, you just turned on your air conditioner for relief from the current hot weather. Instead of feeling that sweet blast of cool air you have been craving, you hear strange noises coming from the AC unit.
An air conditioner making loud noises is never a good sign.
While there might be some simple fixes you can perform, it is best to call HVAC 911 Boston for a referral to our network of area contractors.
Before you panic, learn some of the common reasons why your Boston air conditioner might be making noises and what you can do about it.
Possible causes of air conditioner noises
There are a few components in your AC unit that could be the culprit behind the noises:
- The fan – If you hear buzzing, humming or rattling sounds, the culprit is likely the fan. Problems could include an unbalanced fan, loose fan blades or debris buildup on the blades or inside the unit.
- The compressor – Screeching or grinding noises typically point to a compressor problem. This is caused by low refrigerant levels or failing internal components.
- The condenser – If you hear banging or clanking when the unit turns on or off, there may be an issue with the condenser or related components.
- Drainage issues – Strange gurgling noises often occur when condensate fails to drain from the unit. The most common problem is a clogged drain line.
- Electrical problems – Buzzing from within the unit often indicates a problem with electrical components or wiring, which requires the expertise of a professional.
When to call for HVAC service
While some noise from an AC unit is normal, especially upon startup or shut down, loud, unusual noises could signify an underlying issue that will not fix itself. Continued use of your air conditioner despite these strange noises can lead to further damage.
It is best to call an HVAC technician right away if you notice the following sounds:
- Loud screeching, grinding or buzzing.
- Banging, clanking or rattling sounds.
- Gurgling noises.
Also, if the unit emits a burning smell, immediately shut it off and call a professional.
The longer you wait, the bigger the repair bill will be. Even small issues like low refrigerant levels can quickly escalate when left unchecked.
Work with a trusted Boston HVAC company
The last thing anyone wants is to deal with residential AC repairs during hot summer weather. Make the process easier on yourself by calling the licensed contractors affiliated with HVAC 911 Boston. Their team of fully vetted contractors offers 24/7 emergency service when you need it most.
Whether it is compressor issues, drainage problems or faulty electrical components, the service technicians employed by our network of contractors have the skills to diagnose the root cause of noises and quickly and expertly complete the repairs. These service technicians are highly trained to service all makes and models of air conditioning units.
Strange noises from an AC unit always require prompt attention and can lead to bigger issues that can knock your unit out of commission when you need it the most. Do not endure sleepless nights in the sweltering heat. Call HVAC 911 Boston now to be referred to local, leading experts in Boston. With one call, you gain access to licensed local contractors ready to resolve your noisy AC issues.
