Why is My AC Making a Wailing Sound!

Wailing sounds are high-pitched screeches and hissing that occurs when your HVAC is running. Sometimes it even happens when it’s not.

Here’s what you need to know if you hear wailing sounds coming from your HVAC system.

Locate the Noise Source

If you already hear a wailing noise, start following the sound to see where it’s coming from. There are a handful of common places it could come from.

1. Compressor/Condenser Motor

The HVAC compressor/condenser is run by a motor in a high-pressure environment. If there are any issues with the motor, the fan, or any of the mechanical parts inside the casing, this can cause wailing sounds.

Because so much is spinning and turning, it could be due to metal on metal contact that requires lubrication. Otherwise, it’s a high-pressure leak within the motor, which must be immediately fixed. If you hear wailing coming from the HVAC unit’s motor, immediately turn it off and call a technician.

Leaving the unit on with this high pressure could cause an explosion, as refrigerant is turned from gas to liquid and back.

2. Refrigerant Pipes

One of the most common problems in HVAC units is a leaky pipe. These pipes are necessary to carry refrigerant at high pressure. A leak in any one will force gas through at such a high pace that it plays a high-pitched note.

Think of a flute player blowing air into the pipe and covering/opening different holes to create a melody. Now picture that flute player only knowing one off-tune note and wanting the entire neighborhood to hear. Not only that, but the fast-moving refrigerant will inevitably freeze the pipes, causing a clog that stops the HVAC unit from heating or cooling.

The metal tape can help temporarily, but you’ll inevitably need to get it professionally repaired. The system needs to be flushed so the pipe can be replaced to prevent further damage.

Call the Experts

Home Comfort USA is dedicated to keeping everyone in Southern California comfortable. Your home is an important part of your life, and climate control is the key to unlocking comfort.

High-pitched wailing from your HVAC unit is a sign that something is wrong. If the unit is still functioning, it’s only a matter of time before it stops. The last thing you need is to be stranded without heating or cooling in an emergency.

Our dedicated team of experts can fix any heating or cooling problem that comes up. There’s no issue too big or too small.  

Tired of listening to your HVAC screaming? Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a professional HVAC inspection and repair/replacement.