If you notice that your air conditioner is suddenly rattling, it could be caused by any number of things. To prevent the problem from potentially turning into a worse mechanical issue, it’s best to investigate immediately. Here are some of the most common reasons your AC might rattle, and how to fix them:

Compressor motor

The compressor is the part of the air conditioner that pumps refrigerant through the system. The refrigerant is what helps to cool the air as it passes through the air conditioner. The compressor also has a lot of moving parts, so if it’s not properly secured or has loose or broken parts, it can also cause the air conditioner to rattle. To fix this issue, call an HVAC professional to replace or fasten the system’s loose parts. In some cases, they will have to replace the compressor completely. 

Misaligned fan blades

If your air conditioner’s fan is hitting something, it will make a noticeable, rattling noise. The fan blade could have been installed incorrectly or has become misaligned over time. The first thing you should do is unplug the unit and check to see if anything is blocking the fan. If there is, remove the obstruction and the rattling should stop.

Debris stuck in the outdoor unit

If there is any debris stuck inside your air conditioner, it can make a rattling sound when the AC is turned on. Debris can be anything like leaves, dirt, dust, twigs, or anything that could have entered the unit. This can be resolved by contacting a professional to clean out the debris and blockage. 

Loose screws, panels or mechanical parts

Over time, screws can become loose and panels can become dislodged, which can cause a rattling noise. If you hear a rattling noise coming from your air conditioner, it’s important to check for loose screws or panels and tighten them if necessary. You may also want to check for other signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or gaps in the housing.

Dirty filters

If the air conditioner’s filters are dirty, the airflow can be restricted, causing the unit to rattle. The fan can also be affected, causing it to work harder to move the air. This can put a strain on the motor and cause it to overheat. The extra strain can also cause the fan blades to come loose, which can create even more noise. The best way to fix this problem is to simply clean or replace the filters.

Damaged motor 

The motor is responsible for moving the air conditioner’s fan and providing power to the compressor, so if it’s damaged, it can cause the whole unit to shake. To fix a damaged motor, you’ll likely need a professional to install a replacement motor. 

If your AC starts to rattle, it could be caused by any number of things. Most of the time, however, the problem can be fixed with the help of an HVAC technician! To ensure that the rattling doesn’t cause worse and more expensive problems down the road, contact us today and we’ll have your AC working like it’s new again!