Like all mechanical systems, heat pumps eventually wear down and have problems that need addressing. When that happens, your system will likely give you some signs, including unusual noises. Consider these sounds that signal your heat pump in Nitro, WV, is crying out for help:
Loud Metallic Banging
Fans are the most common source of metallic banging sounds. Sometimes, something is hitting the fan outside, such as ice or twigs. Other times, it’s an internal component that comes loose and hits the fan or the housing siding.
Shaking and Rattling
Shake, rattle and roll is great in a song, but it shouldn’t describe your heat pump. A shaking sound indicates excess vibration, which a service technician can trace back to a loose cover panel or improper installation. Rattling may indicate loose components like fan blades or more severe issues, such as overly tight coolant lines or air handler issues.
Grinding
Grinding may sound like nails on the chalkboard, drawing a lot of attention when you hear it. In many cases, a grinding sound comes down to problems with the bearings in the fan motor. To combat this, service technicians will lubricate them during routine heat pump maintenance.
Buzzing
A heat pump may usually emit a quiet buzzing sound, but it shouldn’t disturb your everyday life. However, a loud buzzing sound typically indicates an electrical problem. The most common issues involve a fan motor or a capacitor, which helps start the fan or compressor.
Hissing
Hissing may indicate a few different problems. Most people think hissing indicates a refrigerant leak, which could happen. However, with heat pumps, it may also indicate a faulty reversing valve that’s stuck halfway between the heating and cooling positions.
These sounds all point to something in your system that needs attention and fixing. Call to schedule a heat pump repair with one of our expert service technicians at E.J. Thompson & Son LLC.
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