Is your home AC indoor unit making jet engine noise? Wait, it is not broken; you can solve the split AC indoor unit noise problem easily, using some handy tips. This article first investigates the causes of aircon noise issue, then gives you solutions for each reason. So, stay with the guides from DamaTajhiz HVAC Co.'s professional team of air conditioners.
Split AC Unit Noises and Their Reasons
Considering the lifespan of the split AC units (indoor and outdoor), their installation location, and whether you service and repair the device annually, you may hear unusual sounds from the air conditioner. If your split air conditioner makes annoying noises, such as clicking, buzzing, rattling, or screeching, it means that something needs to be dealt with. Here are the most common AC unit noises and their meanings:
Reason for Clicking Sounds of Split AC Units
A single click when the unit starts or stops is normal. However, repeated or loud clicking may indicate a faulty thermostat, capacitor, or electrical relay.
Buzzing or Humming Noise of Aircon: Reasons
Often caused by loose or failing electrical parts, like a capacitor or wiring. Sometimes, refrigerant lines or compressor mounts can also vibrate or make a buzzing or humming noise.
Split Air Conditioner Grinding or Scraping
Usually means the fan motor bearings are worn out or need lubrication. If ignored, the motor can fail. So, do not neglect the split air conditioner grinding or scraping sounds.
Hissing or Whistling Problem with Split Air Conditioner
A hissing sound typically indicates refrigerant leakage or high system pressure. A certified HVAC technician can handle it right away. In other words, the hissing or whistling problem with a split air conditioner does not have a home remedy, and you should have it repaired by a technician.
Rattling or Banging Sound from Split AC
Loose screws, panels, or fan blades, or even debris inside the outdoor unit, can cause rattling or banging noises. So, first find the noise’s source.
Split Air Conditioner Screeching Voice
A high-pitched screech is a red flag for bad motor bearings or a lack of lubrication. You can lubricate it at home, but if then you see the issue doesn’t go away, you’d better call the technician.
Split AC Units Working Gurgling or Bubbling
Split AC units gurgling or bubbling are often linked to drainage issues or trapped air in the refrigerant line of the device.
What Problems Cause the AC Unit to Be Loud?
As you have studied so far, different causes may make a split AC unit work so loudly (making loud noises). In the following, you will visit the six main reasons for conditioners loud sounds.
Loose Internal or External Parts Cause the AC Unit to Be Loud
If the indoor or outdoor unit is not properly leveled, or if screws and fasteners are loose, it can cause vibration and a clicking or rattling noise.
A dirty or Damaged Fan Can Cause the AC to Be Loud
If dust, debris, or ice builds up on the fan or if the fan blades are cracked or bent, the unit will make unusual noises while running.
Worn-out Fan Motor Bearings Make the AC Unit Work Noisily
When the bearings in the fan motor are worn out or lack lubrication, they produce grinding or humming noises.
Expansion or contraction of refrigerant pipes or metal parts
When the unit is switched on or off, the refrigerant pipes and metal parts expand and contract, which can cause clicking sounds (normal if not too loud).
Compressor Issues Leading to Aircon Noises
An old, overloaded, or failing compressor can generate loud knocking, humming, or clicking noises.
Improper Installation or Lack of Regular Maintenance
If the split AC is not installed level on the wall, or if the brackets and mounts are loose, it can cause vibrations and noise while operating.
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Solving the Problem of Split AC Units Sounds Step by Step
Follow the five steps below to solve the split air conditioners' sound problems at home:
- Turn the unit off before checking anything.
- Inspect and tighten screws, panels, or mounts if they’re loose.
- Clean or replace air filters to avoid extra strain and noise.
- Check the drain line to make sure it’s not clogged.
- If the problem still exists, call a technician immediately. Especially if you suspect refrigerant leakage, electrical faults, or compressor issues.
The following table shows the step-by-step guideline in a glance:
| Recommended Action | Step |
|---|---|
| Always switch off the unit before checking to avoid any risks | Power Off & Safety |
| Check for loose screws, panels, fan blades, and clogged drain lines. Tighten or clean as needed | Visual Inspection |
| Clean or replace dirty filters to reduce strain and noise | Air Filter |
| If you hear hissing, call a licensed technician to check for refrigerant leaks or high pressure | Refrigerant Leaks |
| buzzing or clicking, inspect relays, capacitors, or wiring with the help of a professional | Electrical Check |
| Grinding or screeching means bearings may need lubrication or replacement | Lubrication & Parts |
| If the noise persists or seems serious, contact an HVAC technician for repair | Call a Technician |
- Please note that regular maintenance (at least twice a year) can prevent most of these noises and keep your split AC running quietly.
Dealing with a Noisy Split Air Conditioner at a Glance
An air conditioner or split unit can make unusual sounds for several reasons. Loose internal or external parts, such as screws or brackets, can cause vibration and clicking noises, while a misaligned indoor or outdoor unit may create rattling or knocking sounds. Factors such as the unit’s lifespan, installation location, and annual maintenance can affect noise levels. Dirty, bent, or obstructed fan blades can hit other components and generate noise, and worn-out or damaged compressor parts can lead to loud knocking or buzzing. Additionally, refrigerant pipes that touch walls or other surfaces can vibrate and produce repetitive sounds, and plastic or metal parts expanding or contracting with temperature changes can create ticking or cracking noises. Regular inspection, proper installation, and timely maintenance are key to minimizing these noises and keeping the unit operating quietly.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aircons’ Annoying Noises
Here are the most frequently asked questions about split aircons’ noises, answered by DamaTajhiz HVAC experts.
Why does my AC make a clicking sound once I turn it on?
Answer: A clicking sound when starting the AC is usually caused by electrical components like the thermostat or relay activating, or by the expansion/contraction of metal parts. It is normal if it happens only once or twice, but repeated loud clicks may need a technician to inspect the unit.
Why is my split AC making a buzzing or humming noise?
Answer: Buzzing or humming can occur due to loose electrical parts, a fan motor issue, or vibration from pipes touching walls. Checking screws, mounts, and fan alignment often reduces the noise.
How can I prevent rattling or knocking noises in my AC?
Answer: Ensure proper installation, tighten any loose screws or brackets, clean the fan and air filters, and schedule regular maintenance. Loose parts, misaligned units, or debris can create rattling or knocking sounds.
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