Summer is just around the corner, and people are starting to utilize their AC units again. If your AC unit starts making a squealing noise, it’s important to figure out what might be causing the problem. In some cases, a squealing AC unit is nothing to worry about and can be easily fixed. However, in other cases, a squealing AC unit may be a sign of a more serious problem that will require the help of a professional technician. Keep reading to learn more about the common causes of a squealing AC unit and what you can do about it.
Common Causes of Squealing AC Unit
There are several common causes of a squealing AC unit. One of the most common reasons is that the unit’s fan blades are hitting something, such as a piece of debris or dirt. Another common cause is that the bearings in the fan motor are starting to fail. The fan belt on your air conditioner can also wear out or move out of alignment.
Fan Blades Hitting Something
More than likely, your air conditioning is squealing because the fan blades are hitting something. This can be dust, debris, and other small particles – but nonetheless, it can cause your air conditioning to make that awful squealing noise. This may happen especially if you haven’t used your air conditioning unit in a while. Luckily, this is generally an easy fix.
Misaligned or Worn Fan Belt
In select air conditioning units – usually in units that are a little older – there is a belt that connects the motor to the fan. This belt is just like the one in a lawn mower or vehicle, meaning that over time it will eventually wear out or get stretched out. The humidity in the air will also cause the belt to expand and contract, which may move the part out of alignment. As the humidity and temperature vary throughout the day, your AC may start or stop squealing.
Failing Bearings
Another common cause of a squealing AC unit is that the bearings in the fan motor are starting to fail. If your air conditioning is too new to have a belt, this may be an issue you want to look into. It is important to make sure that these are working properly, or it could ruin the fan motor..
Fixing a Squealing AC Unit
There are a few things you can try to fix a squealing AC unit on your own. Try out these quick tips and tricks and see if they stop the squealing noise. However, if none of these solutions work, it’s best to call a professional technician for help.
Fan Blades Hitting Something
One of the most common causes of a squealing AC unit is that the unit’s fan blades are hitting something. If this is the case, you’ll need to clean out the unit and remove any obstructions. This is a relatively easy fix that you can do on your own. Simply use a brush or vacuum to clean out the unit and make sure there’s nothing blocking the fan blades. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your air conditioner may help prevent something like this from happening as well.
Misaligned or Worn Fan Belt
If the fan belt on your air conditioner is worn out, you will likely want to replace the part. If you are not comfortable with doing this, it is always best to call a professional to address the issue. You can also move a misaligned fan belt back into place, and it should help with the squeaking.
Failing Bearings
It is not out of the ordinary for the bearings in your air conditioner to fail over time. Before automatically assuming they have failed, try to check and see if they just need to be lubricated, as this may fix the issue. However, if this is the case, you’ll likely need to replace the fan motor. This is a more complex repair that should be done by a trained professional in order to preserve the life of your air conditioner, as well as the warranty on it.
When to Call a Professional
The last thing you want to do to your air conditioning unit is make the problem at hand worse – especially during the hotter months of the year. If you have a warranty on your air conditioner, tampering with it without a trained professional may actually cause your warranty to be voided. Then, if you need the warranty in the future, you will not be able to use it anymore.
If your AC unit is squealing and you’ve tried all of the DIY fixes, it’s time to call a professional technician for help. A trained technician will be able to properly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. attempting to fix the problem yourself could cause further damage to your AC unit.
Contact Coastal Home Services Today
In most cases, a squealing AC unit is not a cause for concern and can be easily fixed. However, if the squealing noise persists or gets worse, it’s important to call a professional for help. A trained technician will be able to properly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.
Are you having troubles with your squealing air conditioning unit near the Crystal Coast of North Carolina? If so, contact us here at Coastal Home Services! Our certified technicians are here to help you with all of your air conditioning and other HVAC needs. We are able to work around your schedule to make your appointment as convenient as possible. Fill out the form below or give us a call so we can get started on scheduling a good technician to come fix the issue.
