Is your heat pump making loud, discomforting sounds? If your heat pump has suddenly become noisy, you may suspect that it’s about to have a breakdown. Noisy heat pumps are more common in the winter. However, the loud noises are often due to the valves shifting to put the unit into defrost mode. While a noisy heat pump could be simply that — noisy — it may also be cause for concern. Know the difference and how to fix the loud noises in your heat pump if they are more than a winter quirk.
Your Heat Pump is Louder Than Usual
If your heat pump makes a swooshing sound and then runs louder than normal, it could be a simple solution. It’s likely the function described above, the heat pump going into defrost mode. Typically, the valve shifting causes the swooshing noise. The continued loud operational noises are often caused by the compressor, but it’s typically not a reason for concern.
Loud Noises During Shut Down or Startup
Heat pump units often make strange noises while starting up or powering down. This is somewhat alarming if you’re not accustomed to these sounds. For instance, a heat pump with a Scroll-type compressor makes a few unusual sounds involving clicking and tapping when shutting down. When starting up, they make loud, rickety noises that sound like the whole unit is bouncing back and forth.
These noises are typical. However, if you’re used to the sounds your heat pump makes, and it suddenly begins to make some previously unheard noises, it’s a good idea to investigate to be sure something’s not amiss.
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Loud, Metal-to-Metal Sounds
Sometimes, a heat pump may make loud noises that sound like metal hitting the metal inside the unit. You should turn the unit off immediately and inspect the fan. These types of sounds are often the result of the fan blades hitting something that has ended up inside the unit, such as a chunk of ice or another component.
If this is the issue and the unit is allowed to continue running as-is, you could end up with a ruined fan. Quite possibly, even the motor could be ruined. Both require the help of a professional HVAC technician to repair or replace the damaged component. Even if the contact doesn’t damage the fan or motor, the fan blades could damage whatever they’re hitting. For example, your system could end up with a split tube that leaks refrigerant.
There are all kinds of potential damages that can occur when the fan in your heat pump is hitting something else inside the unit. To prevent issues, turn it off. Address the issue immediately before you end up facing a much more expensive repair.
Your Heat Pump is Making Rattling or Vibration-Like Noises
If your heat pump sounds like it’s vibrating, there are several potential problems. Some of these problems are easier to fix than others. You can try placing rubber pads under the unit to absorb vibrations and reduce the noise. You should also check to determine whether the piping for the refrigerant is strapped too tightly. For rattling sounds, check to make sure the cover panels are screwed tightly in place, and tighten them if needed. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it might be caused by loose parts in the air handler or rattling ductwork.
Alternatively, you may simply have a vibrating or rattling unit that functions that way. In that case, it’s either something you’ll need to get used to, or you may consider replacing the unit if you have the budget.
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Your Heat Pump Makes Buzzing, Grinding, or Gurgling Sounds
When your heat pump system is making an intermittent buzzing noise, the source of the issue may be internal components such as contactors or coils. Also, if you hear gurgling noises, these are often caused by a low refrigerant charge. Heat pumps with dirty motor bearings can even make a noise that you might describe as shrieking.
This usually indicates a motor is on its way to burning out and replacement is nearby. If your heat pump is making any of these noises, you should contact a professional HVAC technician to examine your unit, identify the source of the problem, and recommend the best repair option.
HVAC Repair and Installation Services
Most homeowners don’t have the experience required to safely work with the inner workings of a heat pump unit, so seeking professional expertise is the safest choice. Our team of technicians offer HVAC repair services in Waterbury, CT, and other areas. Our team has the tools and skills required to fix a damaged heat pump in your home. In addition, we offer other types of HVAC services such as heating repair, air conditioning replacement, heater system tune-up, and heating installation. Our team will help you find the source of the strange sounds in your heat pump system.
It can be difficult to correctly determine if there is a specific malfunctioning component or if your heat pump unit is simply getting older and beginning to show its age. It’s not uncommon for heat pumps to become noisier later in their lifespan. If that’s the case, replacing your unit is usually your only option, but your HVAC professional will talk to you about your home heating requirements and make recommendations for the best models to meet your home’s requirements and budget.
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