In the U.S., people spend $14 billion a year on heating and air conditioning repair and services. That includes the cost of replacing some 3 million HVAC systems. Unfortunately, many of those replacements are premature because they are preventable.
One way to prevent the early breakdown of your HVAC system is to listen to it and never ignore the odd sounds it makes. Such noises often indicate problems you would want to investigate and address promptly.
Repetitive Clicking
HVAC clicking sounds are normal so long as you only hear them about three times an hour. That indicates your system is cycling (or turning on and off) as it should, which should be every 15 to 20 minutes.
However, if you hear clicks more often, such as if your AC runs constantly, it may mean your unit is short-cycling. Your AC may be too small or has severe dirt build-up on its interior components. It may also be experiencing electrical issues, or its thermostat might be on the verge of failing.
With too many possible culprits, your best bet is to call an HVAC repair professional ASAP. Their expertise is even more crucial if the issue is electrical. FYI, 30,000 electrical shock injuries occur in the U.S. each year, so it’s best to leave such jobs in the hands of pros.
Drumming or Rattling
HVAC drumming noises often signal loose components, such as bolts, nuts, or screws. That causes them to vibrate, thus creating the drumming sounds. So long as they’re on the outer side of your HVAC system, you can tighten them yourself.
HVAC rattling noises may indicate a loose cover panel or debris hitting the motor fan. The fan itself could even have become unfastened. If these are the sounds you hear, turn off the system ASAP and call a professional heating and AC repair company.
Hissing or Whistling
These noises can arise from a broken compressor or refrigerant line leaks. They usually occur with poor cooling, humid indoor air, or an iced-up AC unit.
If you notice all those symptoms, please call an HVAC professional immediately. Prolonged refrigerant exposure can result in poisoning.
Screeching or Wailing
HVAC screeching or wailing noises can indicate a loose or broken blower fan belt. They may also arise from worn motor bearings or a lack of lubrication on metal parts.
Please turn off your HVAC as soon as you hear such noises, as the issues that cause them can overheat the motor. Then, schedule your system for inspection, repairs, or a tune-up service.
Never Ignore Noises Your HVAC System Makes
Remember: Florida, on average, experiences 25 dangerous heat days annually. On such days, temperatures can be so high they cause heat-related illnesses.
That’s enough reason to keep the HVAC system in your Northwest Florida home in top condition. After all, a properly working system maintains optimal indoor temperature. That helps keep your entire family cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
If your HVAC system makes weird noises, please don’t ignore it. Instead, call us here at Murphy’s Home Services to inspect and fix it ASAP.
