You shouldn’t ignore weird AC noises at any time of year, but during fall, you likely use your AC less often. Because of this, you might believe that you can deal with whatever the problem is at a later date. However, delaying might allow the problem to get worse, to the point where your AC fails the next time you turn it on. Fall is a good time of year to have your AC looked at. HVAC technicians aren’t as busy as they are in the summer and winter. In the meantime, here are some noises from your air conditioning that you shouldn’t ignore.

Clicking Sound That Won’t Quit

You should hear your AC click for a few seconds when you turn it on or off, but that clicking shouldn’t be continuous or loud. It could mean that there’s something wrong with the relays, the thermostat, or a bad capacitor.

Rattling Noise

Rattling is often a sign that some part of the AC, such as a panel or a screw, is loose. It can also suggest that debris has caught in the condenser’s fan or that the fan’s motor has worn out. Ignoring these problems can lead to even more parts of your AC coming loose.

Screeching, Squealing, or Whining

Screeching or shrieking from the condenser unit is a sign that something is wrong with the AC’s compressor. It’s likely due to an increase in refrigerant pressure. This is a serious problem that can cause your AC to fail if it’s not dealt with. If your AC starts shrieking, turn it off and call an HVAC technician at once.

Indoor screeching and squealing can also be signs that there is something wrong with the AC’s fan belt, fan motor, or motor bearings.

Grinding Noise

The sound of things grinding together inside your AC system signals that some component has worn down. The motor bearings usually wear out, and it’s almost always because someone has put off regular maintenance. The good news is that if this is the first time you’re hearing this, you can have an HVAC technician replace the bearings. The bad news is that if you let this continue, your AC will need a new motor.

Call Us if Your AC Is Making Strange Noises

Fall is the best time for any HVAC service. You need to check out noises other than a low, steady hum from your air conditioner as soon as possible. If you hear a distressing sound from your AC and believe it needs repair, get in touch with our HVAC technicians at ACE ABQ in Albuquerque, NM.