Air conditioning is one of the best ways to stay cool on a hot summer day. That’s why staying current with routine maintenance and changing out your air filter every month are so important. Still, even the most dutiful homeowners’ air conditioners can run into problems sometimes. 

If your AC is making water sounds, it could be a sign of trouble. On the other hand, water sounds in your AC can mean your unit is working perfectly. So, how do you tell the difference? It all depends on the type of water noises your air conditioner is making.

Before you call us to schedule an appointment for AC repair, here are three types of water noises your air conditioner might make:

1. Dripping Noises 

Dripping sounds mean your air conditioner is working properly. 

Your air conditioner cools the air in your home in two different ways. One way is by running warm air through a refrigerant to lower its temperature and then returning it to your home. The other way is by removing humidity from that air. Once removed from the air, the humidity becomes condensation and drips water from the AC unit into a pan. 

What should you do about it? 

Go back inside and continue to enjoy your air conditioned home. 

2. Splashing or Running Water Noises

Noises that sound like running water or splashing mean your drip pan may be overflowing. 

When your air conditioning unit is operating properly, the water in the drip pan will either evaporate or be drained out through a condensate drain line. If the water in the drip pan has nowhere to go, the drip pan will start to overflow, which will make a splashing or running water sound. Splashing or running water sounds are typically caused by a blocked condensate drain pipe. When the drain pan is overflowing, there is a risk that the water could leak into your house and cause water damage. 

What should you do about it? 

It is relatively simple to unclog your condensate drain pipe on your own. To unclog your condensate drain pipe:

• Turn off power to the AC unit at both thermostat and circuit breaker
• Locate the drain line exit (typically a PVC pipe outside near the condenser)
• Remove the filter from a wet/dry vacuum
• Create a tight seal between vacuum hose and drain pipe using cloth or duct tape
• Run vacuum on high for 5-6 second intervals (up to one minute total)
• Verify clog removal by pouring water into the access hole and watching it drain

If the process of unclogging your condensate drain pipe is too challenging or if it didn’t work, call us to schedule a repair appointment.  

3. Bubbling or Gurgling Noises

Gurgling or bubbling sounds mean there is a problem with your refrigerant line. 

The warm air from inside your home is cooled, in part, by being exposed to a copper pipe called the refrigerant line. When working properly, this line is airtight. However, if there is a problem with the seal, small amounts of air could get into the refrigerant line. Those form small bubbles in the line, which make a bubbling noise as the refrigerant circulates. 

Another problem that may cause a bubbling or gurgling sound is a leak in the refrigerant line. Depending on how old your air conditioner is, it is possible that this refrigerant leak is a health hazard. If the refrigerant gets low enough, your air conditioning will stop kicking on and it could eventually cause enough damage to require replacing the whole AC unit. 

What should you do about it?

Bubbling and gurgling noises are a strong indicator that you should call us to schedule an AC repair appointment. These sounds suggest refrigerant issues that require professional attention due to serious safety concerns and technical complexity. Refrigerant is a regulated chemical that poses health hazards if improperly handled, requiring specialized equipment and certification for proper repair.

Attempting DIY fixes can lead to more extensive damage, void warranties, and may violate environmental regulations. A certified technician will safely diagnose the exact issue, properly repair any leaks, and ensure your system operates efficiently before minor problems become expensive replacements that could cost thousands more than a timely repair.

4. Hissing Noises

A hissing noise coming from your air conditioner could mean a few different things. But in most cases, it’s the result of a refrigerant leak, which can create a hissing sound as the refrigerant escapes.

Another possibility is that there is some sort of blockage in the system. A clogged refrigerant line can cause the refrigerant to flow unevenly, and a clogged air filter can result in increased air pressure within the unit. This can also lead to a hissing sound.

What should you do about it?

Like those bubbling sounds we discussed earlier, hissing noises shouldn’t be ignored. These sounds often point to refrigerant leaks or blockages that can quickly turn into expensive problems if left unchecked. Remember, refrigerant requires special handling by certified professionals to keep you and your family safe.

We recommend giving us a call right away to inspect your system. Our technicians have the proper equipment to find and fix the issue before it causes more damage to your AC unit. A quick repair now could save you from the discomfort of a broken air conditioner and the much higher cost of replacing your entire system later.

If your air conditioner is making any noises you don’t like, watery or otherwise, Welter Heating can help keep your AC working and your indoor temperatures comfortable. Schedule an air conditioner repair appointment today.