With any HVAC unit, there are sounds and noises you’ll hear coming from it. The air that flows through the ductwork from it turning on and turning off are all normal, but some noises are signs that there might be trouble. The hot summer temperatures are fast approaching and when you turn your AC on and only hear a clicking noise on the outside unit, there is an issue with the contactor or the capacitor. If these parts are indeed the problem, then you’ll have to call professionals to have it repaired. If this is the first time you’ve ever heard either one of these terms then read on. This post will help you figure out which part is the problem before you call for service.

What is an Air Conditioner Capacitor?

The capacitor of the air conditioner is housed inside the outdoor unit and is essentially a huge battery that powers the AC compressor. It gives it the extra power to start it up. Your AC needs three times the power to start it up than it uses to run. Capacitors are usually in older AC units because they need a little more help to get it started. This means that not all ACs have a capacitor and just like batteries in your remote, capacitors will lose their charge and prevent giving your AC that extra kick-start to run. This means that capacitors in older AC units that stop working lead to insufficient power to start and will stay that way until the capacitor is replaced. If the clicking sound is followed by a buzzing or soft hum noise and the unit outside won’t turn on then chances are the capacitor is bad and will need to be replaced. A capacitor that is bulging at the top or bottom or has discharge on it are other indications of a bad capacitor.

What is an Air Conditioner Contactor?

The contactor of the air conditioner is located on the outdoor unit and works as a big relay in turning the unit on and off. Think of it as the “go between” from the compressor to the thermostat. When you set the thermostat to cool, the contactor starts the process of getting the compressor to turn on. If it’s not working, the message isn’t sent and the AC won’t start. The clicking sound is the unanswered message from the thermostat. If the outside unit won’t start, and you hear the clicking sound without buzzing or humming, then you have an issue with the contactor.

Air Conditioning Repair Services & More in Manhattan NYC

Even the new, modern air conditioners will make noise when they cool your home, but there are some sounds you should never hear or get used to. Banging, clanking, hissing or clicking sounds are not normal. If you hear any noises coming from your air conditioner that you’re not used to or haven’t hear before, it’s best to call the professionals at NY NJ AC Connection to diagnose the problem and get it up and running again and ready for those hot days just around the corner. Give us a call today.