Unusual AC Noises? Here’s What They Mean

Your air conditioner is supposed to keep you cool, not keep you up at night with strange sounds. If you’ve noticed your AC making unusual noises, it could be a sign of an underlying issue that needs attention before it worsens.

Below, we’ll break down the most common AC noises, what they mean, and when to call a professional.

Banging or Clanking

🔹 Possible Cause: Loose or broken internal parts
🔹 What It Means: A loose fan blade, a broken compressor, or a disconnected part inside the unit could be rattling around.
🔹 Fix: Turn off your AC immediately to prevent further damage and call an HVAC technician for repairs.

Screeching or Squealing

🔹 Possible Cause: Worn-out or slipping belt, motor issues
🔹 What It Means: If the noise is coming from the indoor unit, it could be a belt issue. If it’s from the outdoor unit, the motor bearings may be wearing down.
🔹 Fix: Some newer AC models don’t have belts, but if yours does, it may need to be replaced. A professional can determine if the motor requires lubrication or a full replacement.

Hissing or Whistling

🔹 Possible Cause: Refrigerant leak or ductwork problem
🔹 What It Means: A refrigerant leak can cause a hissing sound, while a whistling noise may indicate a duct leak restricting airflow.
🔹 Fix: Refrigerant leaks are serious and require professional repair. If it’s a ductwork issue, sealing or replacing the ducts may be necessary.

Clicking or Ticking

🔹 Possible Cause: Electrical issue
🔹 What It Means: A repetitive clicking or ticking noise when your AC turns on and off could mean a faulty relay, capacitor, or control board.
🔹 Fix: Electrical problems should always be handled by an expert to prevent further damage or potential fire hazards.

Buzzing or Vibrating

🔹 Possible Cause: Loose parts, frozen evaporator coils, or electrical issues
🔹 What It Means: A buzzing AC unit could indicate a failing motor, a dirty filter, or frozen coils due to restricted airflow.
🔹 Fix: First, check and replace your air filter. If the buzzing continues, turn off the AC and call a professional to diagnose the issue.

Gurgling or Bubbling

🔹 Possible Cause: Drain line issue or refrigerant leak
🔹 What It Means: A clogged condensate drain line can cause bubbling sounds as water struggles to drain. Alternatively, low refrigerant levels can create a gurgling noise in the system.
🔹 Fix: Try clearing the drain line with a wet/dry vacuum. If the noise persists, have an HVAC technician check for a refrigerant leak.

When to Call a Professional

While some minor AC noises can be resolved with basic maintenance, ignoring persistent or loud sounds can lead to serious system damage. If your AC is making any of the noises above, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to prevent costly repairs.

Need AC Repairs in Saskatoon? Contact Pro Service Mechanical Today!

Don’t wait for a full system breakdown—schedule an AC inspection with Pro Service Mechanical today! We’ll diagnose and fix the issue so you can enjoy a quiet, efficient cooling system.