What Causes Abnormal Noises When the Car Air Conditioner is Turned On?
2 Answers
The reasons for abnormal noises when the car air conditioner is turned on are: 1. Damaged compressor belt tensioner; 2. Excessive wear or damage to the blower motor; 3. Faulty internal/external circulation motor; 4. High pressure in the air conditioning system; 5. Improper engagement of the compressor clutch; 6. Air filter not replaced for a long time. Solutions for abnormal noises when the car air conditioner is turned on include: 1. Timely cleaning of the air conditioner vents; 2. Removing the fan blades to add lubricating oil and clear debris; 3. Replacing the blower with a new one; 4. Replacing the air filter. The working principle of a car air conditioner involves the compressor sucking in low-temperature, low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator outlet and compressing it into high-temperature, high-pressure gas, which is then discharged from the compressor.
Last time when I turned on my car's AC, it made a loud rattling noise that startled me. Later at the repair shop, they found the belt was loose - when it gets old and worn, it squeaks from friction and needs timely replacement. Also, if the compressor bearings fail, they'll make noise too, sounding like creaking. The compressor works under heavy load, so wear and tear causes this. If the fan motor has issues like being stuck or unable to rotate properly, it can cause strange whirring sounds. I should remind you that the fan is crucial in the AC system - any noise means it needs checking. When refrigerant is low, the AC struggles to operate and may produce hissing or humming noises, like labored breathing, so top it up promptly. Loose wiring connections are more noticeable in summer heat - oxidized contacts cause buzzing sounds. Use a flashlight to check for loose wires under the chassis or hood. In short, never ignore AC noises - minor issues waste fuel while severe ones can damage the engine. When parked, identify the noise source and get it fixed early at a repair shop. Spending a little now saves big trouble later.
