Air conditioners are meant to operate quietly, producing only a mild hum or soft whirring sound. However, when your home AC sounds like a jet engine starting up, it can signal an underlying issue that requires your attention.
The noise could stem from problems such as blockages, malfunctioning parts, or a failing component. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why your AC is doing that and how you can address the problem to restore peace and quiet in your home.
Why Does Your AC Sound Like A Jet Engine?
Refrigerant levels, installation, fans, or filters can be the causes why your home AC indoor unit is making jet engine noise. While air conditioners do make some noise as they cool your space, loud, whirring, or jet-like sounds are not normal. The most common reasons for such sounds include:
- clogged air filter;
- malfunctioning fan;
- loose or broken parts;
- issues with refrigerant; and
- improper installation or sizing.
Let us explore these causes in more detail to help you identify and address the issue. Read below to understand better!
1. Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter is one of the most common culprits behind your air conditioner sounding like a jet engine. When the filter becomes dirty or blocked, the air cannot circulate properly, causing the system to overwork and struggle to cool your home.
As the system works harder, it may produce unusual sounds, including loud whirring or jet engine-like noise. Some steps you can take to fix this issue are listed below.
- Turn off the power to the air conditioner.
- Locate the air filter and remove it.
- Inspect the filter for dust, dirt, or debris.
- If it is dirty, clean it gently with water or replace it with a new one.
- Reinstall the filter and turn the system back on.
Regularly replacing or cleaning the air filter every 1-3 months can help avoid these issues and ensure smooth operation.
2. Malfunctioning Fan
If the fan blades inside the air conditioner become unbalanced, damaged, or clogged with dirt and debris, they may cause loud noises. The fan plays a critical role in circulating air, and when it malfunctions, it can create the type of noise that sounds like a jet engine. Check out how you can solve this problem below.
- Turn off the power to the system.
- Remove the front panel to access the fan.
- Check the fan blades for dirt, damage, or any obstructions.
- If the blades are dirty, clean them carefully with a soft cloth.
- If the blades are damaged or the motor seems faulty, contact an HVAC technician for repair or replacement.
A failing fan motor could also be the source of the sound. Having a technician inspect the fan motor can help prevent further issues down the road.
3. Loose Or Broken Parts
Over time, the internal components of your air conditioner may become loose or damaged. These parts can include screws, panels, or other smaller components that vibrate during operation. How to fix it? Take the steps below.
- Inspect the air conditioner for any loose screws or panels.
- Tighten any loose parts you can find.
- If parts are broken or damaged, replace them or call a professional to handle the repairs.
If these parts are not appropriately secured, the vibration can cause a loud noise that resembles a jet engine starting up. Regular maintenance checks are crucial in preventing this type of problem.
4. Issues With Refrigerant
If your air conditioner is low on refrigerant, the system may work harder than usual to cool the space. Low refrigerant levels can cause the AC compressor to struggle, leading to loud noises. This is particularly common if the refrigerant is leaking from a crack or hole in the lines.
Low refrigerant issues require professional attention. It is important to call a licensed HVAC technician who can locate and repair the leak and then refill the system with the appropriate amount of refrigerant.
Attempting to fix an AC freon leak on your own can be dangerous and may cause more damage.
5. Improper Installation Or Sizing
If your air conditioner is not properly sized for your home, it may be overworking to cool the space. An oversized unit may turn on and off frequently, while an undersized unit may have to run continuously. In either case, this can lead to excessive strain on the system, causing loud, jet engine-like noises.
If you suspect your unit is incorrectly sized, it is important to have a professional HVAC technician assess your system. They may recommend installing a new unit better suited to your home's needs.
Improper installation can also lead to issues with airflow, causing strange noises. It is always a good idea to have a qualified technician inspect the installation to make sure it was done correctly.
What Should An Air Conditioner Sound Like?
A properly functioning unit will typically produce a soft hum or gentle whirring noise as it cools your home. It should not make loud, disturbing sounds like a jet engine. If you hear anything louder or more intense than a soft hum, there may be an issue that needs to be addressed.
If your home AC sounds like a jet engine starting up, no need to worry! Just call one of our HVAC pros, and they will assist you in any way they can.
