Trying to figure out what’s wrong with my air conditioner

When my air conditioner is functioning properly, it makes very little noise.

There is a quiet humming when the cooling unit first starts up.

About a month ago, the indoor components started making excessive and strange noises. I was reluctant to hire a professional for repair because of the high cost of service. Even if the technician needs to do nothing more than tighten a wire or clean a fan blade, there’s a substantial charge involved. If replacement parts are needed, the expense can become a major drain on the budget. I decided to do some research online and see if I could diagnose the problem on my own. I was hoping the issue was something minor that I could fix without needing to hire a technician. I read that dander, dust, pollen and even small rodents sometimes get stuck inside the ductwork. The buildup of debris obstructs airflow and causes the system to be much noisier than usual. If this is the problem, it’s necessary to let a knowledgeable professional handle duct testing and cleaning. When the noise originates from the outdoor components, it could be the result of a number of things. A squealing noise is typically a sign of too much internal pressure built up within the cooling system. This requires calling for help. A hissing noise is likely caused by a refrigerant leak and often leads to inefficient cooling. It’s best to schedule a repair with a certified contractor. A buzzing noise normally points to an electrical issue with the condenser, fan motor, relay switch or wiring. Since electrical issues can be dangerous, it’s not recommended to attempt a DIY repair. No matter the situation, it seems necessary to spend the money for professional service.

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