Air conditioning systems serve an important function in your home. They keep you cool and comfortable, even on the hottest days. Your AC is perhaps the most vital appliance you own, and it’s imperative to take care of it. Air conditioners make ambient noise that tends to blend into the background, which is why you may not notice it on most days. When you hear a strange noise, it’s certainly a cause for concern.
If you’re hearing sounds like running water, hissing, or other unusual noises, it’s time to get your air conditioner checked out. Downtown Air and Heat helps keep the Greater Orlando Area cool by offering expert AC repair. In this blog post, we explore the reasons why your AC unit may be making water noise and how we can resolve your air conditioner problems.
Unusual Water Sounds Your Air Conditioner May Make
A running water sound and other water-related noises aren’t normal for any AC system. Here are the common running water noises you may hear when your AC has an issue.
Dripping Noise
A dripping noise may not be a major issue immediately, but if the drip is constant over a period of time, you likely need AC maintenance. Your air conditioner takes in warm air, which is collected on the evaporator coil, where it is exposed to refrigerant to cool the air it blows out. During this process, it creates condensation, then drips into the drain pan or drip pan beneath.
While the water should fall into your drip pan, if you hear splashing, it may be due to the water dripping into a full pan. In the process of removing humidity from the air, that pan can fill up with water if the condensate drain line becomes clogged.
It will only be a matter of time before these water sounds lead to a breakdown of your AC system. Often, it will trigger the float switch, which is designed to shut down your AC before the pan can overflow and cause further damage. A little condensation is usually nothing to worry about, but if you hear that persistent drip, it’s time for AC service.
Running Water Sounds
If you hear a sound like running water coming from your AC unit, then you should not hesitate to make a service call. An AC unit creates condensation during the cooling process, but it does not use water to operate. This sound is a likely indication that your evaporator coil has frozen over and is leaking water all over.
The causes could range from something simple to a much larger issue.
Hissing AC Sound
If you hear a continuous hissing sound, you may have refrigerant leaking. Compressor problems, such as a malfunctioning compressor or an internal valve leak with the compressor valve, can also create this strange hissing sound.
Gurgling or Bubbling
When this essential appliance makes gurgling or bubbling sounds, it could be the pressurized gaseous refrigerant flowing through the copper refrigerant lines. If there is a leak or something is stuck in the line, you will hear this frustrating sound.
Common Causes of Water Dripping
Filthy Air Filter
An air filter that is caked with dust, dirt, and pet hair will restrict the airflow to your unit. When this happens, the evaporator coil may get to temperatures below freezing. It can then freeze the condensate that has built up on the coil. Additionally, the coil itself may be dirty and in need of cleaning.
Low Refrigerant
The chilled refrigerant liquid circulates and draws heat out of the air in your home to bring your indoor air temperature to a comfortable level. When you are running low on refrigerant or your refrigerant leaks, ice can form.
Broken Thermostat
If your thermostat has gone haywire, it may cause your AC to run constantly, even when it hits your set temperature. This can also cause the coil to freeze and make running water sounds.
Ultimately, if your AC sounds like running water, there are numerous causes that an HVAC professional can repair and get your unit back on track.
How to Deal with AC Water Noises
Whether you hear the sound of excess water, drips, hisses, splashes, or bangs, you should arrange for immediate AC service. Even if your AC is still running, it will only be a matter of time before it breaks down.
The best way to keep issues like this from arising is to keep up with regular AC maintenance. When you have a professional HVAC company come out each year, they can perform essential cleaning and inspection services. Your HVAC technician can spot any minor issues before they become major problems. In Central Florida, it’s always a smart move to keep your AC running smoothly to prevent any downtime that will cause you to suffer from sweltering temperatures indoors.
You can count on Downtown Air and Heat to help keep your Orlando area home cool and comfortable at an affordable price. With same-day service, you won’t have to wait long to get your AC back up and running. Contact us now to get an expert HVAC technician out to your home today!
