Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?: The Common Causes of a Noisy AC

If your air conditioner is making all sorts of noises, then you can't miss this guide on the common causes of a noisy AC.
Technician repairing an air conditioning unit.

There’s nothing homeowners dread more than bumps in the night—not because of spooks or terrors, but because fixing unknown noises can put huge demands on our wallets!

It may be tempting to ignore odd noises, but you should listen carefully to the unusual sounds your AC makes. Letting minor issues snowball into huge meltdowns can cost you much more than you’d spend by tackling the issue early. 


If you’ve been wondering, “Why is my AC making loud noises?” we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the most common culprits for your noisy AC. 

A Slipped or Worn Belt 


If you’ve noticed a distinctive squealing or squeaking sound, a slipped belt may be to blame. Older belts can also start to squeal before they break—which would result in a total breakdown. Fortunately, it’s easy to quiet down a loud AC in cases like this by having the belt replaced with a newer version. 

Duct Leaks 

Whistling noises, soft or loud, can be an indication that air has begun to leak out of your AC’s ducts. This is especially true anywhere in your attic. 

When this happens, however, it’s more than just a distracting auditory nuisance. Leaking ducts mean you’re losing some of the precious conditioned air your AC is working to cool for you. This, in turn, means a higher energy bill! 

Loose Parts 

The sound of rattling can be one of the more difficult AC noises to place, but one common culprit is a loose part. Often, screws, bolts, or smaller parts may loosen with time given the subtle movements of your unit. Depending on the location of the loose part, this may be a minor issue—but it could also be the sign of a destabilized unit coming loose of its footing. 

Electrical Malfunctions 

Your AC is composed of intricate electrical components that should be perfectly tuned—which is why the sound of buzzing can be an indication something’s awry. Often, the problem is a loose connection somewhere, but your unit may also malfunction when the incorrect voltage runs through it. 

To prevent further damage or a total breakdown, have a professional come for an inspection. They may recommend a simple repair or a total replacement of an older unit. 

Hissing Sounds 

Hissing sounds are often a sign of a refrigerant leak, and the chances grow higher if you’ve noticed that your AC unit has grown less effective recently. Because refrigerant is hazardous, it’s important to have a professional check your refrigerant coils and lines for leaks. 

Let Us Take Care of Your Noisy AC 

When your AC is making loud noises, it can be hard to know what to do. Rather than worrying over the issue or trying to diagnose it yourself, reach out to our trained technicians for an easy fix. 

We’re the trusted partner for residential and commercial property owners throughout Waco, Temple, and Killeen, and we offer 24/7 service on all brands. Contact us today for a noisy AC or other repair needs!

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