Why Is My Air Conditioner Making A Noise?

Hearing strange noises when your air conditioner is working? There's a strong probability there’s something wrong with your unit. If you ignore it, it could lead to extensive—and expensive—issues later. We're going to help you figure out what’s occurring with your air conditioner and what you can do to change it.

8 Common Air Conditioning Noises

• Gurgling - Gurgling generally indicates a complication with your refrigerant line. If you can't pinpoint where the noise is emanating from, that's alright. A technician can help verify where this noise is occurring. You can read more information on our gurgling noises guide.
• Crackling - Crackling could come from debris in the unit or aging ductwork. Debris in the outdoor unit will generate a noise outside your house. Mature ductwork can produce noise inside your house. Check out our crackling noise guide for more information.
• Hissing - Hissing can be caused by a faulty refrigerant line, an internal valve leak or the compressor. Look through our hissing noise guide for more on that.
• Buzzing - Buzzing is no doubt an electrical issue. Read our buzzing noise guide for additional information.
• Clicking - Clicking can indicate you have a loose part or that the fan is misaligned. You can check out more information in our clicking noise guide.
• Pulsating - Pulsating can come from a loose part. Go through our pulsating noise guide for more information.
• Loud Noise - A clear noise from your outside unit can mean an issue with your compressor, damper, fan or air handler. Look at our loud noise guide for more information.
• Humming - Humming can begin with fan motor issues or a damaged relay switch. Head to our humming noise guide for more information.

You can find further information about prevalent air conditioning troubles on energy.gov

Should I keep operating my AC when it’s making a noise?

There are a few cases where you can continue to run your AC, but you do so at your own risk. It's almost impossible to answer this question without looking at your system.

In most cases, we recommend shutting off the unit off and calling a professional.

When should I do something about the noise?

We recommend calling a professional as soon as you suspect there's an issue with your air conditioner. While AC repairs can be stressful and an unexpected spend, it's best to get problems corrected right away. Getting a professional could help minimize future expenses and keep your system running longer.

Not sure if your air conditioner is making any of these noises? Please fill out the form below for a free, in-home consultation.