Think of the heating and cooling (HVAC) system components as the instruments in a quiet symphony. When all the pieces are in good condition and work in harmony, the only sounds users will hear will be the quiet hum of a motor and whisper of air as it exits registers in their California home. An HVAC system operating at peak efficiency is music to the ears.
An HVAC system in need of professional attention produces noise. Unusual sounds may indicate the need for a tune-up, cleaning, or repair. The experts at Tassio Temperature Control can decipher the noise and get the system back on track. They have the knowledge and experience it takes to keep the HVAC equipment running at peak efficiency and delivering the comfort users can expect in their Canoga Park home.
Maintaining HVAC equipment
According to ENERGY STAR®, annual energy bills top $2,200 in the average household. Half of that cost goes to heating and cooling systems.
According to ENERGY STAR®, annual energy bills top $2,200 in the average household
Maintaining HVAC equipment is essential to keeping costs down and more money in the pocket. Users can troubleshoot the furnace, air conditioner, heat pump, and ductwork by paying attention to sensory cues. If the equipment emits strange odors or working parts look worn and dirty, it may be time to call for professional help. Listening to the HVAC system is one of the easiest ways to be proactive.
Air conditioning system
What is the HVAC system trying to tell user? Here is a guide to some typical sounds:
- Screaming—If the air conditioner sounds like the victim in a horror film, it may have a refrigerant leak or too much pressure in its compressor. Turn the system off and call one of Tassio professionals.
- Squealing or screeching—These sounds are like the high-pitched noise from worn brakes or metal on metal. They may indicate a worn belt or motor bearing. Sometimes the motor simply needs lubrication. Replacing the belt and lubricating the motor are not for do-it-yourselfers. For fast, quality, and expert service, call the professionals at Tassio Temperature Control.
- Rattling—If users notice rattling near an air register, it could mean the grille is loose. A rattling sound from within an air duct usually signals the presence of debris. Did the user inadvertently drop a nail through the register or did someone in the family force a tiny toy through the grille? It may be time for a thorough duct cleaning. Debris inside the outdoor unit of the air conditioning system also can cause rattling. Other possibilities include a loose fan and loose parts in the blower or motor. These also can cause rattling sounds from the outdoor unit of the air conditioning system. The fan could be loose and there might be a problem with the blower or the motor.
- Banging or clanking—A loose part that rattles can eventually break or disconnect, causing a banging sound. The furnace blower also could be unbalanced, or the compressor might be loose.
- Scraping—A metal scraping sound likely means a component is broken and possibly moving around in the unit. It might also indicate damaged or obstructed fan blades.
- Loud humming or clicking—Humming, clicking, even buzzing usually indicate electrical problems, such as loose wiring, a defective capacitor, or failing thermostat.
- Hissing—If users hear hissing from the air conditioning unit, it could be a refrigerant leak or a problem with the compressor motor. If the sound is inside the walls of the home or from the furnace, it likely is a leaky duct. Either way, they will need to call a professional for repairs.
