Hearing unusual noises coming from your air conditioning compressor can be unsettling at best. In the summertime, temperatures in the Twin City metro area can get hot very quickly, and with high humidity, which can make indoor air conditioning an absolute necessity. A broken-down A/C is the last thing you and your family need to deal with. So how can you tell the difference between a noise in the outside air conditioner compressor that’s normal; something that is easily remedied; and a noise that could signal something far more serious and expensive?
Before you go out and replace the entire air conditioning unit, here’s a guide to some of the most common sounds that might come from a malfunctioning A/C compressor.
Banging, clanking or rattling sounds. This could be caused by a loose part, such as a connecting rod, crankshaft or piston pin. Because most compressors nowadays are sealed, unfortunately, you may have to replace the whole compressor.
Hissing, foaming. This likely signals a fairly serious leak of refrigerant. Your trusted HVAC technician will need to address this issue, since refrigerant is the life-blood of your A/C system.
Droning or buzzing sound that seems to be coming from the outside fan. That noise in the air conditioner compressor can sound like the motor is about to conk out. This could be caused by loose wiring or a bent connection, or burning or bending at the fan contactor relay switch.
These are just a few of the sounds and diagnostic possibilities available. However, in most cases, it’s best to have a NATE certified technician come out to make a complete, professional analysis of the problem.
To get more information on dealing with noise in the air conditioner compressor, or any other HVAC needs, please visit us at Marsh Heating & Air Conditioning. We have been serving the Twin Cities Metro Area for almost 40 years.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about air conditioner compressors and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
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