Why Is My Heat Pump Making Loud Noises?

Heat pumps make a soft humming noise under normal operation. If you’ve been using yours in the past few months, you probably barely notice when it’s running. This makes loud noises hard to ignore — which you shouldn’t. In today’s post, the local HVAC contractors at Perfect Degree HVAC discuss the common causes of such noises.

Common Heat Pump Noises

If your heat pump is making a racket when turned on, it could be caused by one or more of the following:

• Loose parts. Heat pumps are equipped with motors, fasteners and moving components that wear out over time. Some of these components may come loose and cause clunking or rattling noises.
• Dirt and debris. Your heat pump’s exterior unit houses the condenser coils, which need airflow to gather heat from the outdoors, as well as expel heat when in air conditioning mode. Dust and small particles tend to accumulate on the condenser coils because of its location, to the point where it can obstruct airflow, impede the heat pump’s performance, and cause premature wear on the system.
• Refrigerant leak. A leaky refrigerant line can likewise put increased wear on the heat pump. Turn off your heat pump if you notice signs of a refrigerant leak.
• Old age. Heat pumps that are beyond their expected service lives are more likely to start showing signs of age, among which includes loud noises.

What You Should Do

If you’ve just started noticing loud noises from your heat pump, it’s best to turn it off and call your HVAC technician immediately. Continued use may cause more wear or even damage to internal parts — this is particularly important if the noise is caused by loose components in the heat pump.

Taking the preventative route can help save you from the costs and stress of unexpected heating repair appointments. Having your heat pump cleaned by professionals at least once a year can help prevent damage caused by accumulated dirt on the outdoor unit. Lastly, keeping up with scheduled maintenance appointments can help ensure peak efficiency and continued performance.

The spring season is just around the corner, and it’s the best time to have your HVAC system serviced by professionals. Schedule your maintenance appointment with Perfect Degree HVAC today by giving us a call at (610) 529-7372. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.