With all that's going on inside of your standard air conditioner, it's inevitable that you will hear some level of noise. But for those who aren't exactly air conditioning experts, it can be hard to tell which sounds are cause for concern. Here are a few common noises that could indicate that it's time to call an air conditioner repair service.

Banging

If you're hearing a banging noise coming from your air conditioning unit, it could mean that there is an issue with the compressor. The compressor is designed to deliver refrigerant to different areas of the HVAC unit and reduce the level of heat in your home. If you are getting to the point where you need AC replacement, it's likely that parts inside of your compressor are becoming loose, causing the familiar banging sound.

Humming

One possible explanation for a humming noise emanating from your air conditioning unit is that your contractor relay switch isn't fully functional. This part of your unit gets the message from your thermostat that it's time to start the air conditioning process. Without this part working properly, it's likely that your air conditioner won't be able to do its job. If you hear the trademark humming of a defective AC unit, give your local air conditioner maintenance technician a call sooner rather than later.

Hissing

A hissing noise often means that there is some kind of air leak, either in your house or within your air conditioner. The severity of the leak can only be determined after calling a professional. The sound may also indicate an incompatible air filter or defective expansion valve.

Screeching

A broken fan motor in the outdoor condenser unit is a common cause of unpleasant screeching sounds. This fan is used to take heat away from the refrigerant. An air conditioning expert will be able to let you know how easy of a fix this can be, as it depends on the severity of the malfunction. Your unit will not operate as well as it should if the fan motor isn't operational.

It's always best to get a second opinion, as DIY air conditioning fixes aren't as simple as one might think. If you find that your air conditioner is making any of the above noises, or any other abnormal noises, contact the experts at Another Heating and Air Company. While you're at it, feel free to inquire about new types of thermostats. According to the EPA, programmable thermostats can save you up to $180 a year. To learn how much you could save, give us a call.