If your kids keep waking you up claiming they hear monster noises in the vents or basement, they’re not wrong. But the real problem isn’t imaginary; it’s mechanical. And if you ignore it, the cost becomes significantly higher.
In this blog post, you’ll learn why your AC makes loud noises, what happens when you ignore them, and why you should call Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for AC services in Fairborn, OH, the moment you hear something.
Common AC Noises in Fairborn, OH, and What They Mean
If you hear any of the noises described in the following sections, contact Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to schedule AC services in Fairborn, OH.
1. Failing Electrical Components
A loud buzzing or clicking sound is one of the first signs that your AC’s electrical parts are wearing out.
When components like contactors or capacitors fail, they allow power to flow to the system without completing the startup process. The unit keeps trying to turn on, but nothing happens. AC buzzing noises coming from the outdoor unit are a dead giveaway.
Wires overheat, relays wear down, and the damage builds until the system shuts off completely.
2. Compressor Issues
Loud clanking or banging when your system starts means that something inside the compressor has broken loose.
A broken piston, rod, or mounting plate disrupts refrigerant flow and causes internal pressure to rise. As pressure builds, the loose parts slam against the housing, damaging the compressor shell.
The strain forces your system to run hotter and longer during each cycle. Once the compressor locks up, your system stops cooling completely.
3. Loose or Shifting Parts
Are you trying to figure out why your AC makes loud noises? Know that loose parts are a common cause. Screws, brackets, or panels shift with each cycle, knocking against nearby components. These loose parts damage coils, stress ductwork, and restrict airflow.
Debris in the fan cage causes sharp impacts and exacerbates the problem. The vibration spreads through the entire system and puts extra strain on mounting points. Ignoring it results in coil leaks, motor failure, or both.
4. Airflow Obstructions and Fan Wear
If you notice screeching while your AC is running in Fairborn, OH, the sound is coming from worn fan belts or dry motor bearings, creating high-pitched friction as metal parts grind or slip out of alignment. These fan problems reduce airflow and cause the blower motor to overheat. A slipping belt or seizing motor can stop your system mid-cycle and prevent it from restarting.
Low airflow also increases pressure inside the evaporator coil and forces the compressor to work harder, heightening the risk of a complete system failure.
5. Refrigerant or Drain Line Leaks
Hissing or bubbling points to a refrigerant leak or a blocked drain line trapping air and moisture.
A refrigerant leak lowers the pressure inside your system, which causes the evaporator coil to freeze and extends the time it takes for your system to reach the set temperature. When the coil thaws between cycles, it leaks water around the air handler.
Moisture buildup raises indoor humidity, leading to mold forming inside your system. During Fairborn’s humid summers, this added moisture makes it even more challenging for your system to maintain a comfortable home. Low refrigerant also forces the compressor to work harder, which wears it out more quickly and leads to premature failure.
6. Control Board or Relay Failure
When your AC clicks repeatedly without starting, the control board or relay is stuck in a failed cycle.
The thermostat sends a signal to cool, but the board doesn’t deliver full power to the compressor. Your system keeps trying to start but never completes the process. This loop of false starts draws extra electricity and overheats the relay. A loud air conditioner that keeps clicking runs with unstable voltage and faces a high risk of electrical damage.
If your AC still makes loud noises after checking everything else, the control board or relay may be to blame. Don’t try to inspect it yourself. Contact the team at Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing to handle the repair safely.
Contact Butler Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing in Fairborn, OH, To Fix AC Noise for Good
The longer you wait to fix loud AC noises, the more damage your system takes. We inspect every moving part, electrical connection, and pressure level to determine the cause of the issue. If you’re still wondering why your AC is making loud noises, we’ll diagnose the issue and fix it fast.
To prevent future breakdowns, read about the benefits of an AC tune-up.