A robust air conditioning system is an excellent way to be comfortable during hot summers. However, it may not be enjoyable if it isn’t functioning correctly. Understanding some potential causes of your AC compressor rattling noise is essential since it’s one of the early warning signals of a malfunction.
AC Compressor Making Rattling Noise
Most households are accustomed to hearing the hum of an AC compressor noise. Therefore, any new sounds that break up the routine drone are warning indicators for possible system problems. In addition, the nature of the sound might provide information about what might be wrong with the cooling system.
The many noises that you could hear and what they signify are listed below:
- Banging, Rattling, or Clunking
Banging, rattling, or clunking noises in air conditioning units often indicate loose components within the system. For instance, a rattling sound could be due to a loose fan motor or blower fan in the unit. These components can become unsecured and create noise, particularly when the AC starts up.
For example, the AC compressor discourages noise because it isn’t kept firmly in place if a bolt comes free and the compressor moves. Tightening the connection is the first step in removing the noise, if applicable.
The noise you hear from the air conditioner compressor during a cooling cycle is caused by loose connecting rods, pistons, or other parts moving around during operation.
It is better to replace the compressor to resolve this problem. It is typically simpler to replace the compressor than to try to fix the loose internal component because of how this vital component.
Read also: How to Fix Window Air Conditioner Compressor Noise?
- Clicking
A clicking sound in your air conditioning unit can often be traced back to a blockage, such as debris obstructing the fan motor or blower fan. This type of noise occurs when external elements like leaves or twigs enter the unit and interfere with the moving parts, causing a clicking or rattling sound.
Such noise happens when branches and other external debris enter the appliance and stop internal parts from working correctly. Internal components may become damaged due to these factors and create odd noises while the system runs, such as the compressor fan blades crashing into a bent fan screen.
You must remove debris from the condenser unit, and any damaged components must function properly. For example, falling debris likely damaged the outer parts of the machine, which need to be replaced. If a part is beyond repair, you may require component replacement.
Read also: How to Fix a Stuck Relay on AC Unit
A failing relay or control within the external unit is another problem that produces a clicking sound. Relays and controls are used to find performance problems, then fixed or replaced to restore functionality and eliminate the clicking sound your outdoor air conditioner produces.
- Hissing
Do you hear high-pitched hissing sounds coming from your air conditioner? It can be a sign of two different yet dangerous problems. Other frequent AC sounds might give away the problem’s origin and hissing.
How To Fix a Rattling AC Unit
To fix a rattling sound in your AC unit, addressing any vibrations coming from the AC compressor is essential. This may involve securing the compressor or checking for any fan motor or blower fan issues. If these components are loose or unbalanced, they can cause the entire unit to vibrate and produce a rattling noise.
If you have a mini-split, you should examine the AC compressor by opening the exterior unit (it like a bit like a car battery).
A plastic platform, for instance, might split and cause a rattling noise when AC is on. First, check the platform the AC compressor is on. You may swap it out with a hardwood platform to reduce the pulsating sound and lessen the vibrations. You can add support to prevent the AC compressor from shuddering; tiny rubber isolation feet are typically used to reduce vibrations and quiet pulsing sounds.
Remove the rear panel facing the outside to access the AC compressor in window AC systems. If it vibrates, make sure it’s fixed in place. If the little rubber isolation feet often found on compressors are missing or broken, the window AC compressor makes a rattling noise.
You may employ support to prevent it from shaking and making pulsing sounds. It can be underpinned with a piece of wood or tightening the screws holding the compressor in place.
If they create noise, try to wriggle the refrigerant lines away from solid objects like walls. The important point is that they are not colliding with anything for them to continue vibrating. That would cause the noise to pulse in a set pattern.
Final Words
Although AC compressor rattling noise is a vexing issue, it frequently indicates more severe problems. Always call a professional to fix your air conditioner correctly to ensure you are never left without air conditioning when needed.
