Why Is My AC Making a Hissing Noise?

August 9, 2023by J & J Services

An air conditioner, a vital device for cooling air in homes or businesses, operates by extracting heat from the air and expelling it outside. However, sometimes an AC unit may emit a hissing sound, which can indicate an issue in the refrigerant system. This system, crucial for the AC’s operation, involves a compressor that compresses and liquefies the refrigerant gas, subsequently released as a vapor. If you hear an AC making a hissing noise, it could be due to a problem in this cycle. The vapor, cooled by evaporator coils, chills the air passing over them. This cooled air is then circulated throughout the building via ductwork.

Not only are air conditioners essential for maintaining comfort during hot summer days, but they can also enhance energy efficiency by cooling air more effectively than alternatives like window units or fans. Furthermore, they are beneficial for indoor air quality, filtering out contaminants such as dust, pollen, and mold spores. Yet, it’s important to be attentive to unusual noises like an AC hissing sound, as they could signify a need for maintenance or repair.

 

Types of Air Conditioners

There are several types of air conditioners available on the market today: central systems, split systems, window units, and portable units. Central systems are typically installed in larger buildings and use ductwork to distribute cooled air throughout the space. Split systems have two parts: an outdoor unit that houses the compressor and condenser coils, and an indoor unit with evaporator coils and fan. Window units are mounted in windows or wall openings to cool single rooms or small spaces. Portable air conditioning units are designed to be moved from room to room as needed.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance of your air conditioner will ensure it runs efficiently and effectively for years to come. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters, checking refrigerant levels, inspecting ductwork for leaks or breaches, and ensuring all components are properly lubricated will help keep your system running smoothly. Additionally, scheduling yearly tune-ups with a professional technician will help identify any potential problems before they become costly repairs down the line.

At J & J Heating & Air we understand how important it is to keep your home comfortable during those hot summer months. Our team of certified technicians has been proudly serving San Joaquin County, Sacramento County, Stockton and surrounding areas for over 18 years with honest and professional services for all makes and models of heating and cooling units. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!

Air conditioners improve indoor air quality and cool air, there are several types available, and proper maintenance is essential. Types of air conditioners include central systems, split systems, window units, and portable units; regular cleaning/replacing filters, inspecting ductwork, and yearly tune-ups will help keep system running smoothly.

Causes of Hissing Sounds

Hissing sounds coming from your air conditioner can be a sign of trouble. It is important to identify the cause of the hissing sound and take appropriate action. At J & J Heating & Air, we have been providing honest and professional service to San Joaquin County, Sacramento County, Stockton and the surrounding areas for over 18 years. Our team of certified technicians are experienced in all makes and models of heating and air units, so you can trust us to help you address any issues with your system.

Refrigerant Leakage

One common cause of a hissing sound coming from an air conditioner is refrigerant leakage. Refrigerant is essential in an air conditioning system as it helps absorb heat from the inside air and expel it outside. If there is a leak in the system, then coolant will escape through it, resulting in a hissing sound. In addition to the noise, other signs that you may have a refrigerant leak include warm air coming from your vents or frost on the evaporator coils.

Compressor Failure

Another possible cause of a hissing sound is compressor failure. The compressor is responsible for compressing refrigerant gas into liquid form so that it can be circulated around the system. If this component fails, then it can lead to a loud hissing sound coming from your unit. Other signs that your compressor may need repair or replacement include loud noises when turning on or off and increased energy bills due to inefficient operation.

It is important to identify the source of the hissing noise before taking any action as this will determine what repairs are needed. At J & J Heating & Air, our team of certified technicians are experienced in diagnosing and repairing all types of heating and cooling systems so you can trust us to get your system back up and running quickly and safely.

Cause of Hissing Sound
Signs & Symptoms
Refrigerant Leakage
Hissing sound, warm air from vents, frost on evaporator coils
Compressor Failure
Loud hissing sound, loud noises when turning on/off, increased energy bills

Heat Pump Hissing

At J & J Heating & Air, we understand the importance of a properly functioning heat pump. Heat pumps are used to regulate temperature and humidity levels in your home. When they are not running properly, it can cause discomfort for you and your family. One common issue with heat pumps is a hissing sound that may be heard when the unit is running. The following will discuss what causes this sound and how to address it.

Reversal Valve

One of the most common causes of a hissing sound from a heat pump is due to the reversal valve. This valve controls the direction of the refrigerant flow within the system. If there is an issue with this valve, such as debris or dirt blocking it, then it can cause a hissing noise as air escapes through small openings. In some cases, this noise may also be accompanied by vibrations coming from the unit itself.

Leaking Refrigerant

Another possible cause of a hissing sound from your heat pump could be due to leaking refrigerant. Refrigerant is responsible for cooling and heating air within your home, so if there is a leak in the system then it can lead to inadequate cooling or heating performance and an audible hissing sound coming from the unit. It is important to have this issue addressed immediately as refrigerant leaks can be dangerous and costly if left unrepaired.

Professional Repairs

When dealing with any issues related to your heat pump, it’s important to contact a professional technician who has experience in repairing these systems. At J & J Heating & Air we have over 18 years of experience working on all makes and models of heating and air units in San Joaquin County, Sacramento County, Stockton and surrounding areas. Our technicians are fully certified and trained to handle any issue you may have with your heat pump so you can rest assured that you are getting quality service from experienced professionals who know exactly what they are doing.

If you hear a hissing sound coming from your heat pump, don’t hesitate to contact J & J Heating & Air right away! We understand how important it is to keep your home comfortable and our team of experienced technicians will work quickly and efficiently to get your system back up and running in no time so you can get back to enjoying a comfortable environment in your home again soon!

Common causes of a hissing sound from a heat pump and how to address it with professional repairs. Reversal valve and leaking refrigerant may cause hissing sound.

Professional Repairs

At J & J Heating & Air, our technicians are highly trained and certified to handle all your air conditioner repair needs. We specialize in repairing hissing sounds from air conditioners, heat pumps, and other HVAC systems. Our team will inspect the system thoroughly to identify the root cause of the issue and provide a cost-effective solution.

Diagnosing the Problem

The first step in resolving a hissing sound from an air conditioner is to diagnose the problem. Our technicians will use advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the source of the noise and determine what repairs are necessary. We may need to check for refrigerant leaks, compressor failure, or other issues that could be causing the noise. Once we have identified the source of the problem, we can then move forward with repairing it.

Repairing Refrigerant Leaks

If a refrigerant leak is found during our inspection, our technicians will repair it quickly and efficiently. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to detect any leaks in your system and seal them properly so they won’t reoccur in the future. This will help prevent further damage to your system and ensure optimal performance for years to come.

Replacing Compressors

In some cases, a compressor failure may be causing your air conditioner to make a hissing sound. If this is the case, our technicians can replace your compressor with an energy efficient model that meets all industry standards. We also offer maintenance services such as cleaning coils, changing filters, checking refrigerant levels, and more that can help keep your system running smoothly for years to come.

Heat Pump Repairs

If you have a heat pump system that is making a hissing sound, we can help diagnose and repair it as well. Heat pumps often make noises due to reversal valves or leaking refrigerant lines that need attention. Our technicians can inspect your system and determine if repairs are needed in order to restore quiet operation again.

At J & J Heating & Air we understand how important it is for your home’s comfort level and energy efficiency when it comes to proper HVAC maintenance or repairs. That’s why we strive to provide our customers with quality service at competitive prices every time they call us for help with their heating or cooling systems. Contact us today for all your HVAC needs!

Service
Description
Diagnosing the Problem
Our technicians use advanced diagnostic equipment to pinpoint the source of the noise and determine what repairs are necessary.
Repairing Refrigerant Leaks
We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to detect any leaks in your system and seal them properly so they won’t reoccur in the future.
Replacing Compressors
Our technicians can replace your compressor with an energy efficient model that meets all industry standards.
Heat Pump Repairs
Our technicians can inspect your system and determine if repairs are needed in order to restore quiet operation again.

Conclusion

At J & J Heating & Air, we understand how important it is to have reliable and efficient air conditioning. Hissing sounds can be caused by a variety of factors, including refrigerant leakage, compressor failure, reversal valve issues, or leaking refrigerant. Our team of certified technicians are experienced in all makes and models of heating and air units and can help you diagnose the source of the hissing sound quickly and accurately. We strive to provide our customers with honest and professional service and are proud to serve San Joaquin County, Sacramento County, Stockton, and the surrounding areas for over 18 years. Contact us today for any of your heating, cooling, or plumbing needs!