Noisy Air Conditioner Compressor: Causes & Solutions
The air conditioner compressor is like the heart of your cooling system. Its primary function is to compress the refrigerant gas and pump it through the system to transfer heat.
However, it's no stranger to making noises—often due to various factors—which can be grating and disturbing, especially if exposed to them for a long time.
But what causes these noises, and should you be worried about them?
Keep reading to learn more about what causes a noisy aircon compressor and how to deal with it!
Common Causes of a Noisy Aircon Compressor
Wear and Tear
Over time, the internal components can become noisy because of wear and tear, particularly in older units.
If you hear a buzzing sound, squeaking or rattling noises, they can be caused by an old fan motor, dirty air filters or overheated electrical components. Dulled fan blades or even a loose fan can also produce squeaking noises or cause a whirring or clanking noise.
Loose Parts
Vibrations within the unit can cause screws and other parts to loosen, leading to loud noise disturbances, such as a rattling or banging noise
.
Therefore, it's important to check components such as:
outdoor fan motor
indoor blower fan
insulation materials
other internal parts
If left unchecked, a loose part can cause a serious problem, which might require replacing the entire unit or sending it for repair.
Refrigerant Issues
Incorrect levels of refrigerant, whether too low or too high, can cause the compressor to make unsettling noises. A refrigerant leak or malfunction along the refrigerant piping will produce a hissing noise or low humming noises.
It is important to check if the refrigerant lines are connected inside the air conditioner cabinet to prevent leakages and noise.
External Factors
A noisy air conditioning unit can also result from debris accumulation or positioning the compressor too close to walls or other objects.
Loose objects like leaves, twigs, dirt, or small stones can enter the unit through the vents or gaps. As the compressor operates, these objects can move around, striking internal components and creating banging, rattling or clicking noise.
Meanwhile, obstructions can block airflow, causing the compressor to work harder and produce a buzzing or humming noise. This added strain can result in louder operational sounds and potentially cause overheating.
Practical Solutions to Deal with Aircon Compressor Noise
Keep the Unit Clean and Free From Obstructions
Maintaining a clean air conditioning unit is fundamental to preventing noise caused by debris and obstructions. Keeping the area around the compressor free from debris and repositioning it if necessary can mitigate noise disturbances.
Clean the air filter and the area around the outdoor unit regularly to eliminate the clicking, squealing, or banging noises from your AC unit. You could also try installing a mesh guard over the air intake vents to filter out larger debris without restricting airflow.
Check for Wear and Tear
Regularly checking for signs of wear and tear can prevent small issues from escalating into major problems.
Pay particular attention to the compressor's moving parts, which are prone to wear, such as:
Fan Blades: Bent or damaged fan blades can cause a rattling noise. Inspect and replace them if necessary.
Bearings: Worn-out bearings can produce grinding or squealing noises. Replacing these bearings can restore smooth and quiet operation.
Loose Parts: Vibrations can cause screws and bolts to loosen over time. Regularly check and tighten these to prevent loud noises.
Regular Maintenance
While homeowners can do regular cleaning and inspections, professional maintenance is crucial for comprehensive care.
Professional technicians have the expertise and tools to perform detailed inspections and repairs for air conditioning units that go beyond basic maintenance.
Regular professional maintenance ensures that all components are functioning optimally, enhancing the unit’s efficiency and lifespan.
Technicians can also provide preventive care by identifying potential problems early, preventing costly breakdowns and maintaining the reliability of your air conditioner.
Ensure Your Air Conditioner Remains in Its Best Shape with Your Favourite Air Con Uncle!
Is your aircon too noisy? Are you worried that your aircon is going to break down?
Relax in comfort with Air Con Uncle – your dependable partner for superior air conditioning services!
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Whether you need a repair, installation, or general servicing, we've got your back.
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