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Decoding Those Noises From Your AC

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When summer temperatures start climbing in Baldwin County, the last thing you want is for your air conditioner to start making strange noises—or worse, to stop working altogether. If your AC unit is rattling, buzzing, hissing, or making any other out-of-the-ordinary sound, it’s time to listen closely. These unusual noises are often your system’s way of waving a red flag before something more serious breaks down.

At Peaden, we know how critical it is to have a reliable cooling system in our warm, humid climate. Our expert HVAC technicians are here to help you decode those odd AC sounds so you can take action with air conditioning repair in Baldwin County, AL before a small issue turns into a major problem.

Banging or Clanking

If you hear a banging or clanking noise coming from your outdoor unit or indoor air handler, it’s likely a mechanical issue. This could be a loose or broken part, such as a connecting rod, crankshaft, or even a fan blade that has shifted out of place. These sounds could also indicate a compressor that’s failing internally.

What to Do: Shut off your AC and call a Peaden Pro right away. Operating your system with loose or broken parts can cause further damage and lead to a more expensive repair.

Hissing or Whistling

A high-pitched hissing or whistling sound often points to a refrigerant leak or an issue with air escaping through a leaky duct. Refrigerant leaks not only reduce your system’s efficiency but can also be harmful to your health and the environment. 

What to Do: Don’t ignore a refrigerant issue. Call in a Peaden Pro to test and repair the leak, then safely recharge your system to manufacturer specifications.

Buzzing

Buzzing is one of the most common complaints we hear from Baldwin County homeowners. This noise can stem from a variety of issues, including electrical problems, loose parts, debris in the outdoor unit, or even a failing motor.

What to Do: Buzzing should never be brushed off. Electrical problems can be especially dangerous, so have a Peaden Pro inspect the unit and diagnose the cause quickly.

Clicking

Hearing a clicking noise when your AC starts or stops is usually normal. But if the clicking continues during the cooling cycle, or your system fails to start at all, it could be an electrical control issue—particularly involving relays or capacitors.

What to Do: Repeated clicking is not something you can fix with a DIY approach. Contact a Peaden Pro to inspect your control panel and make the necessary repairs safely.

Screeching or Squealing

High-pitched squealing or screeching is often associated with worn-out blower motor bearings or a frayed fan belt—both of which require attention before complete failure occurs. 

What to Do: Schedule a service appointment with a Peaden Pro to inspect the motor or belt and replace the worn components.

Rattling

A rattling noise might mean something as minor as debris in the outdoor condenser unit, like twigs or leaves. However, it can also signal loose parts inside your system or a compressor that’s nearing the end of its lifespan.

What to Do: Begin by turning off your system and visually inspecting the outdoor unit (only if you feel comfortable doing so). Then, schedule a diagnostic with a Peaden Pro to get to the bottom of the issue.

When in Doubt, Call the Pros

Unusual AC noises aren’t just annoying—they’re your system’s cry for help. Ignoring them can lead to larger system failures, increased energy bills, and discomfort during our hottest months. If your air conditioner is making strange sounds, don’t wait. Contact the Peaden Pros for fast, reliable air conditioning repair.

We offer expert diagnostics, honest recommendations, and lasting solutions to keep your home cool and comfortable all season long.

Call today to discover The Peaden Way: Service Is Our Passion, Safety Is Our Priority, Satisfaction Is Our Promise.

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