Why Is My AC Making a Buzzing Noise?
An AC making a buzzing noise could signal anything from a minor electrical issue to serious mechanical problems. Some issues are quickly resolved at home. Others require a licensed technician. Either way, it’s important to swiftly address a noisy AC unit to ward off system failure and keep your family and home safe.
This guide covers:
- Common causes of a buzzing AC unit
- Electrical issues that cause buzzing sounds
- Mechanical problems behind the noise
- Should you try fixing it yourself?
- When to call a professional for AC repairs
Here’s everything you should know about a buzzing AC, troubleshooting options, and when to call a repair tech.
Don’t Let a Noisy AC Disrupt Your Comfort — Call Champion Air Today!
The Champion Air team has a reputation for excellence underscored by an A+ Better Business Bureau rating. For over four decades, we have helped our Arizona neighbors keep their AC systems running like a Champion. If your HVAC system is noisy, call for 24/7 emergency or same-day AC repair services and restore your comfort quickly.
Common Causes of a Buzzing AC Unit
If your AC unit is making a buzzing noise, there could be an issue with your indoor or outdoor AC components, such as:
- Loose or damaged components. Worn-out parts can become misaligned, creating a buzzing noise as they rub together.
- Electrical malfunctions. You may hear buzzing from faulty wiring, relay switches, or capacitors.
- Frozen evaporator coils. When ice forms on the coils of your outdoor unit, a lack of airflow strains the system and produces odd noises.
- Obstructed fan blades. If your fan blades are bent out of shape or dirty, you may hear a suspicious rattling or buzzing.
Electrical Issues That Cause Buzzing Sounds
An AC making a buzzing noise could have electrical issues requiring professional intervention. Some potential HVAC electrical problems include:
- Capacitor failure. If your capacitor is struggling, it won’t be able to fully start the compressor, resulting in a strange buzzing noise.
- Loose wiring. Incomplete electrical connections can be noisy and dangerous, indicating increased fire risk.
- Faulty circuit breakers. If your AC unit trips the breaker, electrical overload could be involved.
Only licensed electricians should handle electrical components. Please do not try to diagnose or repair electrical issues yourself.
Mechanical Problems Behind the Noise
If you can rule out an electrical issue, it’s time to see if your AC’s buzzing noise is related to a mechanical concern:
- Refrigerant leaks. Lower refrigerant levels force your AC unit to work harder, which can increase noise.
- Compressor problems. A failing or overworked compressor is especially loud, particularly when trying to kick on.
- Blocked or misaligned fan blades. Inspect your fan blades to see if they’ve been damaged or are obstructed by debris.
Should You Try Fixing It Yourself?
Some AC buzzing noises are caused by minor issues, such as a loose panel or a dirty fan. Others are more serious. Here are a few ways to tell when to attempt a DIY fix and when professional intervention is necessary.
DIY fixes:
- Tightening loose screws on the exterior (casing) or the AC unit
- Removing leaves or debris obstructing the outdoor fan
Professionals only:
- All electrical repairs, including anything to do with wiring
- Replacing components, such as the capacitor
- Fixing a refrigerant leak
- Compressor problems that require specialized tools
When to Call a Professional for AC Repairs
If your AC unit keeps buzzing, is not cooling appropriately, or keeps tripping the breaker, it’s time to call a licensed HVAC technician. A professional HVAC tech can:
- Diagnose electrical and mechanical issues
- Find minor problems before they snowball into significant concerns
- Recommend proper repairs or, if necessary, a complete replacement
- Discuss what type of replacement unit would suit your home and your specific need
Stop the Buzzing — Get Professional AC Repairs From Champion Air
A constant buzzing sound can disrupt your peace and quiet and indicate a problem with your AC unit. Champion Air offers fast, reliable AC repair services that can help restore your HVAC to optimal operating conditions in as little as one day. We service all AC brands, new and old, and help is only a click or call away.
