Why Is My Air Conditioner Buzzing?
Is there a buzzing sound coming from your cooling unit? If so, you’re probably pretty stressed! Cooling systems can make lots of odd sounds, but buzzing can sound particularly alarming and often cause a bit of panic. But don’t stress out too hard—Schneller Knochelmann Plumbing, Heating & Air is here to provide some much needed answers.
Is your Cincinnati air conditioning system making strange sounds?
Dealing with a Buzzing Air Conditioner
The first thing we’ll need to define is what exactly you’re hearing. We realize “buzzing” is a pretty general term, but unfortunately it’s sort of hard to nail down an exact term for specific sounds. But there’s an important difference between buzzing and humming. Both are signs of a problem, but they indicate some very different issues.
A humming or droning sound will nearly always relate to loose or busted parts. Most commonly a stripped belt, or loose fan assembly components. A buzzing sound, on the other hand, is an electrical issue. And unfortunately a fairly serious one.
What Causes Air Conditioner Buzzing?
The sound can be coming from a few places. First off, did you notice the sound from your outdoor unit or from somewhere inside?
Outdoor unit buzzing can be:
- The condenser fan. Your condenser is located on the outside of your home, housed in the main unit. If the motor becomes jammed or the connections are frayed or loose, the component will begin emitting a buzzing sound.
- The contactor relay. This switch activates in accordance with the home’s thermostat, and features a somewhat sensitive assembly that is sensitive to damage and wear.
Indoor buzzing can be:
- Breakers. If the buzzing sound is coming from the breaker box (home electrical panel) itself then the issue could be your cooling system or something else entirely. You can tell if it is specifically your AC if the humming occurs only when you air conditioner kicks on.
- Any electrical connection. Absolutely any electrical connection in your system can buzz if it comes loose or takes on some form of damage. Typically these would be caught during a routine maintenance visit, but incidents do happen from time to time.
What Do I Do?
The most important thing is to shut off your system first. Not only can electrical issues be dangerous, but leaving your system on exposes it to far more risk. This can result in further damage, and a much higher repair bill. Catching things early saves you stress and cost, so go ahead and give your cooling system a rest while you call on help.
The unfortunate news is an electrical issues isn’t going to be fixing itself. The danger and risk are going to be there until you seek air conditioning repair for your Cincinnati home! The good news, however, is that electrical issues typically don’t take long to fix, nor are they the most costly problems you can encounter.
Call Schneller for Superior AC Repair Service in Cincinnati!
Having trouble with a buzzing or humming air conditioning system? Don’t sweat it! We’ve seen and repaired it all and can provide you with the services you need to get back to comfortable, safe cool in your Ohio home.