Any strange noises in your Birmingham, Alabama, home could be coming from your air conditioner. Most people hear the sound of moving air and an occasional click when the system starts or stops working. However, you shouldn’t have trouble with everyday activities such as having conversations with family members, catching up on the latest TV series, or getting a good night’s sleep.
If you hear banging, grinding, or whistling noises, contact the experts at Total Comfort Heating & Air for help in finding the cause of the problem and fixing it. That way, you can avoid an inconvenient, costly breakdown and save energy.
Banging
Banging, buzzing, or rattling sounds could mean there is a loose screw or some debris in your ductwork. You could also have a gap in your ducts, so you should have them cleaned and sealed. However, an occasional pop or clang is usually just the metal in your ducts expanding or contracting.
Grinding
If you hear the sound of metal grinding against metal, call a professional and turn off your air conditioner immediately. You could have a problem with your system’s compressor or with the fan motor.
Whistling
A leak in your ductwork could make a whistling or squealing sound. You could also be hearing pests such as rats, or your unit’s motor could have a loose belt. Check your system’s air filter at least every three months. A dirty filter can also cause whistling sounds, as well as low indoor air quality, high utility bills, and unpleasant smells. If the noise is coming from your indoor HVAC unit instead of your ductwork, you could have a refrigerant leak.
You can prevent annoying noises and extend your air conditioner’s life by having one of the experienced professionals at Total Comfort Heating & Air examine it at least once per year. For more information about keeping your home quiet and help with installing, maintaining, or repairing your air conditioning system, call us anytime at (205) 386-2056.
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