Valued for their clean, quiet and economic operation, heat pumps do have a few idiosyncrasies that those new to their operation have to get used to. Among them are unfamiliar noises. Learn how to distinguish between normal noises and noises that signal your heat pump may have a problem.
Normal Noises
- Starting Up and Powering Down – Heat pumps make some strange sounds when starting up or powering down. Units with a scroll compressor can make clicking and tapping noises when shutting down. When they start up, they may also make loud noises. Don’t be alarmed. These noises are normal.
- Hissing – Heat pumps make this noise when going into defrost mode (the fan will also stop). This may be followed by a loud, buzzing sound as the ice is defrosted.
Noises That May Signal Malfunction
- Shrieking, Gurgling – Gurgling may be due to low refrigerant charge. Shrieking may indicate dirty motor bearings, which may signal the motor is burning out.
- Vibrating, Rattling -This can be something innocuous, or can signal a significant problem. For vibrating, try putting rubber pads under the unit; you may also need your technician to check the refrigerant piping. When the unit rattles, make sure the cover panels are screwed tightly in place. Otherwise, there may be loose parts in the air handler, or the ductwork may be loose.
- Metal Hitting Metal – Sounds of metal hitting metal can be serious. You should turn the unit off immediately as fan blades may be hitting a chunk of ice or another component. Continuing to run the unit may ruin the fan.
If you hear a noise that seems suspicious, call your HVAC technician right away.
For more information on your home’s heat pump or to schedule HVAC repairs and maintenance, contact Energy 1 Heating and Air Conditioning of Lorain.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Lorain, Ohio about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Guide or call us at 440-201-2959.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area