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Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Ignore AC Noises

July 24, 2023

As temperatures rise in regions like Los Angeles and Santa Clarita, air conditioning becomes an invaluable lifeline for homeowners. While air conditioners were intended to bring comfort and relief from the heat, it’s essential not to overlook any unusual AC noises they produce.

Here at Brody Pennell, a leader in HVAC services since 1945, we hope to shed some light on why homeowners should pay attention to AC noises. By exploring common air conditioning noises, understanding their implications for AC repair, and delving deeper into how air conditioners function, homeowners can gain valuable insights into why not ignoring these noises can bring more benefits than the potential consequences of doing so.

Understanding How Air Conditioners Operate

It is essential for homeowners to understand how air conditioners work to differentiate between normal operating sounds and potential issues. Here are some key points:

Air conditioners use a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant to remove heat from indoor air and provide cool air. Some normal operational sounds include a gentle hum of the compressor, airflow noise, or the occasional click when the system turns on or off. However, any unusual or persistent noise should be taken seriously and examined by a professional AC repair technician such as the Brody Pennell team.

4 Common Air Conditioning Noises And Their Meanings

It is normal for your air conditioner to make noise while turning off and on. However, it is not normal to hear specific sounds frequently, because it can indicate something wrong internally with your air conditioner. Below we have listed common AC noises homeowners experience and likely causes.

Rattling or Clanking Sounds:

  • Loose or damaged components, such as fan blades or motor mounts, can cause rattling or clanking noises.
  • These noises may indicate the need for AC repair in Santa Clarita, CA, as ignoring them can lead to further damage and potential system failure.

Screeching or Squealing Sounds:

  • High-pitched screeching or squealing noises often suggest a problem with the fan belt or blower motor.
  • These noises should not be ignored, as they can indicate issues that may cause the AC unit to stop working altogether.

Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Sounds:

  • Grinding or metal-on-metal sounds may signify worn-out bearings in the blower motor or a malfunctioning compressor.
  • Ignoring these noises can result in severe damage to the system and costly repairs or replacements.

Hissing or Bubbling Sounds:

  • Hissing or bubbling noises often indicate refrigerant leaks, which can affect the cooling capacity of the AC system.
  • Refrigerant leaks not only decrease efficiency but can also lead to health risks. Seeking professional AC repair is crucial in such cases.

Benefits Of Paying Attention To AC Noises

Paying close attention to AC noises and taking immediate action can provide homeowners with several significant benefits. Let’s explore why it’s essential to address AC noises promptly.

  • Early Detection Of Issues
  • Avoid Further Damages
  • Improved Efficiency And Performance
  • Better Indoor Air Quality And Comfort
  • Increased Lifespan Of AC System

Early Detection Of Issues

By paying close attention to AC noises, homeowners can identify potential problems at an early stage and address them before they lead to more significant and expensive repairs. Prompt action could save homeowners from sudden system breakdowns with associated expenses.

Avoid Further Damages

Ignoring AC noises can have devastating repercussions. What may start off as minor rattling or grinding can quickly escalate into damaged components, reduced efficiency, or complete system failure if left unaddressed. By promptly responding to AC noises, homeowners can protect themselves from further damages while potentially avoiding extensive repairs or even replacement of their entire AC unit.

Improved Efficiency And Performance

Unusual AC noises may signal underlying issues compromising the system’s efficiency and performance, which in turn decrease its energy efficiency, increase utility bills, and cause an uncomfortable indoor environment. By addressing and rectifying these noises, homeowners can restore their air conditioners back to optimal functioning.

Better Indoor Air Quality And Comfort

AC noises may signal issues that compromise indoor air quality and comfort, such as hissing sounds caused by refrigerant leakage that compromise cooling performance as well as pose health risks. By promptly seeking professional AC repair in Malibu, CA to address such problems, homeowners can improve indoor air quality and maintain a healthy indoor environment while enjoying consistent cooling comfort.

Increased Lifespan Of AC System

Regular maintenance and timely repairs that address AC noises can significantly extend its lifespan, as ignoring or delaying repairs could place undue strain and stress on its system. By paying attention to AC noises, homeowners can ensure their AC unit operates optimally for longer— saving both cost and inconvenience with premature replacements.

Cost Savings In The Long Run

Addressing AC noises promptly can lead to significant cost savings in the long run. While it may be tempting to overlook minor noises or delay repairs, doing so can result in financial repercussions. By taking action early on, homeowners can reap the following cost-saving benefits:

  • Prevent Major Breakdowns: Minor AC noises often indicate underlying issues within the system.
  • Avoid Costly Emergency Repairs: Ignoring AC noises may lead to sudden system failures or malfunctions, necessitating emergency AC repairs in Los Angeles, CA and surrounding areas.
  • Prolong the Lifespan of the AC System: Regular maintenance and timely repairs based on the observation of AC noises can significantly extend the lifespan of the air conditioning unit.
  • Lower Energy Consumption: Unusual AC noises often indicate inefficiencies within the system, causing it to work harder to provide the desired cooling. These inefficiencies result in higher energy consumption and increased utility bills.
  • Preserve Warranty Coverage: Many air conditioning systems come with warranties that require regular maintenance and timely repairs. Ignoring AC noises may void the warranty coverage, leaving homeowners responsible for the full cost of repairs.

Call Brody Pennell To Assist With AC Noises!

Ignoring any signs that something might be amiss could be a costly mistake. Homeowners should pay attention to any noises coming from their air conditioning unit and seek professional AC repair in Los Angeles, CA as soon as they hear anything that indicates possible problems, in order to minimize further damage, ensure optimal performance and efficiency, and extend its lifespan. Do not underestimate the significance of early detection and fixing issues as this could save you from costly repairs or even an entire system replacement.

Remember, creating an ideal indoor environment starts with having an efficient air conditioning system in place and listening closely for any AC noises—acting swiftly is key! Call Brody Pennell for AC repair in Santa Clarita, CA and tune out any unnecessary sounds from your system so it stays operating efficiently.


About The Author

Brody Pennell

Since 1945, Brody Pennell Heating & Air Conditioning is the committed to helping homeowners in the greater Los Angeles area experience total home comfort. In 2021, the readers of the Los Angeles Times voted Brody Pennell the Best HVAC Company in the area.

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Erica O.
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Giovanni was so nice and did everything he could to fix a wiring problem with our condenser after hours in a hot attic trouble shooting the problem with the AC not working. He went over and above and the company is sending a supervisor to see what needs to be done to fix the electrical issue. I have interacted with BPH&AC technicians at other residences while on the job myself and they have always been just as friendly and hard working as Gio. I highly recommend!
Jim S.
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Needed an A/C repair given the 105 degree temps we were battled. By referral we found Brody Pennell HVAC who came out right away and restored our system at a very reasonable price. We won’t be looking anywhere else for HVAC help. James was a wonderful technician who handled the job. Well done James!
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Ivan was wonderful! Not only did they fit us in during a busy day, they did a thorough job and fixed the issue within an hour. Highly recommend!
Jeff R.
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Highly recommended. Went on a trip and came home to a 110 degree heatwave and broken AC. Leo H. came to the rescue, had everything working in under 48 hours, explained what was happening and how to prevent the issue in the future. Grateful to have found them and to have functional air conditioning again!
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Alejandro Amaro is a fantastic tech! He came out here and did several tests and did a fantastic job. He was super professional and even wore booties in the house! I still have a humidity issue that we still need to solve but he did great! Will follow up Brody Pennell to figure that out
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I’d like to acknowledge the professionalism we experienced from every member of the Brody Pennell team. Booking a last minute appointment was easily accommodated. The technicians arrived on-time and maintained communication prior to their arrival. They were aware of the notes from previous visits, which made it much easier to move forward quickly. Justin U. and Phil A. were friendly, considerate, and knowledgeable. I fully recommend their services. A+
bhbkeys88
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Armando did an amazing job fixing the problem with my air conditioning unit. Appreciate the knowledge and hard work.
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Ruben was amazing! so polite, professional and helpful.
Joshua F.
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Misael is fantastic. Very professional and swift with his work. Got my system in working order in great time. Cool and polite, I’m very appreciative of his work especially during the heatwave
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Armando has arrived as promised on time and fixed our air conditioning as requested on time and on the hottest day of the year. We are very thankful and grateful for Armando’s professional, efficient service and everything was reasonable and we are grateful to have our AC back running better ever. Thank you
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Leo Hernandez was great! Walked me through everything he was doing and was very knowledgeable.
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Kevin was great. Very knowledgeable
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Alejandro Amaro/ Tom Blomgren were so professional in handling a follow up problem with our new air conditioning unit. They were respectful of the property, worked in an efficient manner and kept me informed of the progress,while addressing the problem. I highly recommend them!
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Leonel H.From the beginning to the end was nothing but pure pleasantness from him. He was very thorough, informative and detailed on what was needed, and to what he was going to do. He explained with simplicity to where we got an understanding on what was going to be done. We we're very pleased with his service.....WELL DONE!
Masoud F.
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Very professional, explained everything very clearly. I will definitely work with them again.
tim T.
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On the hottest day of the year, our air conditioner broke. We called Brody Pennell and Ivan Diaz arrived an hour later. He did a check up, identified an issue, and resolved it within an hour. We were very grateful for such a speedy response.
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I am so impressed with the time one takes toexplain everything to me—& walk me through my choices, if necessary! We have used BPfor many years & many different homes!Couldn’t be happier with their service!
Claire
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Leo did a great job fixing and maintaining our AC before the heat wave hit!
Kazim N.
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Anthony M was extremely kind, diligent, and fixed our AC unit very quickly. Highly recommend!
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Anthony Manzo did a fine job ...
D B.
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Giovanni was so helpful and such a hard worker! Thanks so much! He saved us!
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Shawn was very professional and knowledgeable.The service we received was excellent.I’d definitely recommend them.
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Today's service was outstanding, and due to the good fortune of having JONATHAN ORTIZ as our tech. Jonathan was more knowledgeable and helpful than I could have imagined, and his service was thorough and unstinting! I will be requesting him specifically in the future!Would give Jonathan Ortiz a 10-star review, if possible!Thanks again for your tremendous service!
Adam K.
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Amazing experience from the initial call to service! Had our AC Unit zonk out during the current heatwave and Justin Usi came to rescue us! He discovered the issue in short order and explained everything he had done to fix it and went above and beyond to do a full diagnostic of our system. We will most certainly be using Brody Pennell from now on for our HVAC service and I hope to see Justin again when we do.
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Joe S.
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Daniel Avila and Alberto M. were fantastic technicians they took care of my hvac system and would greet them back again for my future maintenances! Brody is amazing! Much appreciated!
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Highly recommend Brody Pennell. They are extremely professional and I love their text alerts, service reminders and nice service people. Big thanks to Justin Yu for his professionalism, easy way to explain the maintenance and repairs and compassionate demeanor. Our son was screaming and the dog was barking, but Justin was so sweet and patient with both of them. Totally appreciate his expertise!Every technician who has been to our home, including Giovanny and Angel were prompt, polite and professional. It was a pleasure to have them in our home! They even worked extra hard to clean mold from the unit, so I appreciate their attention to detail.
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