3 HVAC Noises That Are Cause for Concern

You can’t always expect your Solon, OH home’s HVAC system to be whisper-quiet. With age, heaters and air conditioners tend to get louder. After a decade or more, what was once a gentle hum can turn into a continuous thrumming sound throughout a heating or cooling cycle. However, there are three HVAC noises that should raise concern.

1. Hissing at the Compressor

“When HVAC systems emit a hissing sound, it’s often a sign of high pressure or significant refrigerant loss. If you notice hissing from your air conditioner’s outside compressor, it’s crucial to turn off your HVAC system. Running an air conditioner with little or no refrigerant can damage or even cause the compressor to fail.

In some cases, AC compressors can produce screeching or screaming noises if they have too much refrigerant, usually resulting from improper recharge services. While these sounds can be alarming, they serve as clear warnings to seek professional assistance.”

2. Scratching, Scuttling Sounds

Scratching and scuttling sounds in your HVAC system are cause for concern as they often indicate the presence of rodents like rats or mice, raccoons, or even insects. These pests can enter your ductwork or other HVAC equipment, leaving behind feces, exoskeletons, fur, and debris. This not only harms indoor air quality but also poses health risks to occupants in the form of allergies and illnesses. Moreover, unchecked pests can cause significant structural and functional damage to your HVAC system.

3. Rattling, Clanging Sounds

Loose components and improperly secured access doors are frequently responsible for rattling and clanging sounds in HVAC systems. To troubleshoot, inspect the access doors of your furnace, condenser, and air handling unit while the HVAC system is running. If they are securely closed and the noises persist, it’s advisable to schedule maintenance service. Our technicians can then identify any loose or missing parts and make the necessary repairs or replacements.

Rely on KW Lang Mechanical HVAC Services

We’ve been serving Solon, OH since 1927. Despite our long-running history in the HVAC industry, we’re committed to offering the latest and most innovative home heating, cooling, and indoor air quality solutions. We also offer options in green technology so that our clients can enjoy healthy and efficient homes. To find out about our preventative maintenance plans or schedule an appointment, contact KW Lang Mechanical today!