Typically, ductless air conditioners can work while producing very little noise. Therefore, if loud sounds suddenly begin emerging from the system in your Lost Creek, KY, home, something is wrong. Here’s why your ductless AC system is so noisy:
Hissing or Whistling
Most commonly, these sounds suggest that your system has a refrigerant leak. If corrosion or blunt-force damage creates holes in your system’s refrigerant lines, some refrigerant gas may flow out of those holes, making hissing or whistling noises as it does so. The smell of ether in the air should confirm that you have a leak.
Alternatively, whistling noises may indicate that your system has a cracked valve, a faulty blower motor or airflow issues arising from dirty filters. You can replace dirty filters on your own, but we advise you to leave refrigerant leaks and mechanical issues to the care of trained professionals.
Humming or Buzzing
These noises suggest that there’s some sort of electrical issue with your system. The problem may lie in frayed or damaged wiring, which may either prevent enough electrical power from reaching your system or send sparks flying and create the conditions for an electrical fire. Another possibility is that your system’s compressor has malfunctioned.
Both of these problems demand swift professional intervention. Frayed wires can be extremely dangerous. If your compressor struggles to do its job, your utility bills may skyrocket.
Banging or Rattling
There are two likely explanations for these noises: an accumulation of debris or loose parts. The debris may include things like dirt or acorns, and the unfastened parts may be bolts, fan blades or panel doors. In either case, the best way to dampen these sounds is to schedule maintenance or repairs.
Ductless AC noises are not merely annoying; they point to trouble. To quiet a noisy ductless AC system, call Appalachian Refrigeration, Heating & Cooling and sign up for our air conditioner repair services.
Image provided by iStock
