In the grueling summer heat, few things strike fear and concern into the hearts of peace-loving homeowners quite like uttering the phrase: my central air is making a buzzing sound. While some air conditioner noises are perfectly normal, a loud buzzing is an indication that your unit might be malfunctioning. Let’s look at a few common causes of a buzzing A/C unit:
Electrical issues are common causes of buzzing sounds. The contractor relay switch is a low-voltage switch in your exterior unit which is controlled by the thermostat inside. When this switch goes out, it can create a loud buzzing. Replacing the switch can fix this issue, but aging or loose electrical connections can also cause buzzing noises. These are more serious issues that can lead to problems like electrical shorts if not repaired.
The compressor inside your A/C unit typically sits on rubber feet called isolation feet. These “feet” can wear down over time, even cracking or falling off. Missing or damaged isolation feet can lead to the compressor becoming unbalanced and making a loud buzzing noise while operating.
The compressor in an A/C unit works to pressurize and cool refrigerant. A buzzing sound could indicate a problem with the compressor or the amount of voltage flowing through the system.
Loose parts, like bearings, can create buzzing or cause premature wear and tear on surrounding parts of the unit. Annual maintenance goes a long way toward preventing buzzing noises due to loose or missing parts.
Refrigerant leaks can lead to a unit freezing over and creating buzzing sounds.
With so many possible causes of a buzzing A/C unit, troubleshooting can be daunting. Working with a professional HVAC company to diagnose and repair the problem can save you time and money, while scheduling annual maintenance for your A/C unit can prevent problems before they happen.
Gold Star Services operates with a team of highly skilled HVAC technicians to provide the five-star service we’re known for. Don’t just take our word for it – see what our customers have to say! Gold Star’s services include heating, cooling and water heater repair, replacement and maintenance. Call 1-302-947-8694 to get started with Gold Star Services today!