Your Helena, MT ductless mini split should provide your home with quiet cooling, and you might not even know when it’s running most of the time. However, ductless mini splits can make enough noise to get your attention and leave you wondering if something is wrong. Keep reading to learn about different noises that might mean your ductless mini split has problems needing attention.
Hissing
Hissing might also sound like gurgling, and it usually indicates air bubbles are forming in the refrigerant line. Unfortunately, that means refrigerant is leaking somewhere. Your system needs refrigerant to cool your home, so when you discover a leak, it’s time to call an HVAC technician to find its source and make the necessary repairs.
Rattling
Loose components can produce a rattling noise, but it could also be debris inside the unit. Loose parts that hit the outside framing of the system might also be an issue. Aging and wear and tear that accumulate over time might make parts loosen enough to make noise.
Grinding
Your ductless mini split air conditioning has an air handler with oiled bearings. They’re supposed to minimize friction while the system runs, but they can also wear down over time. The inevitable friction turns into a grinding sound when your air handler has a problem. Untended, it can burn itself out.
Buzzing
Vibrations or buzzing sounds might indicate an issue with the electrical system or compressor fan blades. Electrical issues will decrease your system’s efficiency and increase your utility bills.
It’s also possible that compressor fan blades might be loose or broken. Other potential issues include loose components, a faulty fan motor or dirty condenser coils.
Short Cycling
This happens when your ductless mini split keeps turning itself on and off. Compressor issues and faulty thermostats are frequent culprits, and short cycling is always a serious threat to the health of your system. Left uncorrected, it doesn’t just make a lot of noise but also shortens the system’s lifespan.
Most of the time, the noises your ductless mini split makes shouldn’t even register with you. When they do, contact Superior Heating & Cooling, Inc. for ductless AC service or repairs.
Image provided by iStock
