Sometimes, your air conditioning may seem to speak its own language—a language characterized by buzzes, hisses, and squeals. These may become typical background sounds to an untrained ear until something strange catches your attention. But if you are not good with air conditioning systems, you may still overlook those strange sounds. But while diagnosing your AC is no easy feat, it is important to listen and seek replacement services when necessary. Strange AC noises usually mean trouble. Here are the top four AC sounds you should pay attention to.

1. Squealing Sound

A squealing sound from your AC is more than just annoying. This could be your air conditioning telling you its internal pressure has risen, or its belt is loose. If left unattended, this may affect the functionality of the compressor, making the system break down. Schedule AC inspection now to avoid dealing with a completely broken down AC later. If the damage is beyond repair, the contractor might recommend a replacement.

2. Hissing Sound

A hissing sound from your AC is a red flag that you may be looking at leaking refrigerant. The potential threat here is that refrigerant leaks can lead to refrigerant poisoning. This is the last thing you want to experience. It can lead to nausea, coughing, headaches, labored breathing, or irregular heartbeats. You should switch off your AC and seek immediate AC repairs. If the refrigerant leaks too frequently, your AC might be too old, and you should plan for a replacement.

3. Buzzing Sound

Hearing a buzzing sound from your AC system could signify you have loose, old, or frayed wires. If not repaired, damaged AC wiring could ignite a fire and cause costly property damage or death. Moreover, a buzzing sound may indicate something is stuck in the condenser fan. Contact a reliable AC contractor to get the problem fixed right away. If the problem persists, you should consider replacing the system.

4. Banging Sound

Your air conditioning can make a banging sound if its fan is misaligned or the motor is loose. If your AC seems to run normally despite the banging sound, you may ignore the noise and focus on other demanding tasks in your life. However, as annoying as the sound may be at the moment, it is nothing compared to the costs and inconvenience you will have to deal with when your AC breaks down completely. The AC contractor can examine the root cause of the problem and recommend repairs or AC replacement.

Your AC may make strange noises as a way to tell you it is failing. If your AC makes any of the above sounds, do not hesitate to seek air conditioning replacement or repair services. If you have an old inefficient air conditioner, it is advisable to invest in a new one to avoid frequent repairs.