Why Split Air Conditioner Makes Loud Noise When Starting?

You’ve used it for quite a while now. It works as it should. However, you noticed that there were loud noises whenever you start it up or shut it down. AC isn’t made to make such noise.

Ignoring your Air Conditioner weird noises can cause minor problems to become expensive ones because they could indicate anything from a simple tune-up to expensive repairs or, in the worst-case scenario, the need to replace the entire unit. The earlier you can detect the noise’s origin and fix your AC problems, it will be better.

What could be the reason your air conditioner makes a loud noise when starting? There is some possible explanation for that.

air conditioner makes loud noise when starting

Split AC Indoor Unit Making Noise

It is not uncommon that an air conditioner is making noises. But it can be not very pleasant when you want to relax or focus on what you are doing while it happens. Several noises might occur to AC.

Read also: Why Does My Air Conditioner Turn Off by Itself?

1. Air Conditioner Makes Buzzing Noise When Starting

If your AC makes a buzzing noise upon starting but works fine like the illustration above, most likely it is a noisy transformer acting up. There is a possibility that your fan motor is in bad condition. It is also possible that your starting capacitor is failing.

If this happens to your AC, you could start your fan yourself. However, worse comes to worst, and you could call a professional to help immediately.

2. AC Compressor Loud Startup

An AC compressor is the specific part of AC that puts the refrigerant into high gas pressure in an air conditioning system. When your AC unit makes noise only when you turn it on, the problem likely lies in the compressor motor.

The noise in the startup of the AC compressor itself is pretty familiar with a scroll compressor. However, when the noise is escalated because of the refrigerant lines strapped to the beams, the noise can be transmitted to the house. For this, ask your contractor to check the lines if it is possible. If it is not, call an expert to help you with it.

3. Loud Bang Sound upon AC Startup

A loud pop or bang sound may happen in a system that uses sheet metal ductwork. When an AC makes this sound while starting, an undersized duct could be caused, a poorly done duct bracing, closed vents, or a clogged filter.

It is also possible that loud banging is caused by debris in the unit or a fan hitting the HVAC cage. If this is the reason for the loud bang sound, you should turn off your unit immediately. Keeping the system running while having this condition surely will further damage your unit.

Read also: Outside AC Unit Making Loud Noise, What May Cause It

When your air conditioner makes a loud noise when starting, it is better for you to fix it immediately. If your AC is not supposed to make that noise, you should worry if it can damage your AC further. To prevent this, you may want to install a noise-reducing barrier if you considered your unit too loud even when it is in good condition.

If you notice clicking noises coming from your air conditioner unit or experience reduced cooling, it could indicate loose screws, dirty air filters, or electrical issues such as fan motor bearings, which may require repair by a professional technician. Ignoring these issues can lead to further electrical problems and costly repairs. Additionally, regular maintenance of the outdoor unit, including cleaning and lubrication of fan motor bearings, can help avoid potential issues with the air conditioner.

Schedule a regular inspection to make sure that your AC works well without any damage whatsoever. If you think there is a problem or the beginning of it, call in an expert to help you before any real problems start developing.

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AirconMag is an experienced author and Air Conditioner expert. With years of practical experience in the field authored several informative articles on various aspects of AC unit, including installation, maintenance, and repair