4 Tips to Reduce Air Conditioner Noise

While the scorching summer sun is beating down outside, taking refuge in an air-conditioned space is truly a blessing. Sometimes enjoying that nice, cool air can come with some inconveniences, though. This is especially the case when your air conditioner is making a lot of noise.

Whether it’s whistling, rattling, squeaking, making a high-pitched whine, or just being way too loud, a noisy air conditioner is a bad sign. Beyond the annoyance factor (and probably bothering your neighbors), it might indicate a bigger problem

The best way to solve the problem is to understand where these noises come from. Then you can figure out what to do about them. Here are four tips on how to quiet a noisy air conditioner.

Where is the Noise Coming From?

First of all, is this a new phenomenon? If it’s always been loud, your air conditioning unit might not be the correct size. An HVAC technician could evaluate your setup and diagnose the problem.

It also could be a unit that sacrificed a more sophisticated blower motor for greater affordability. That affordability only applies to the upfront cost of installation, though. That noise might be the sound of the unit working much harder than it needs to, wasting energy and money. It may require some serious maintenance, if not replacement.

The next question to consider is: what kind of noise is it making? Different noises come from different problems. Banging or clanking could mean a part is broken or has come loose. Buzzing or clicking might indicate an electrical issue.

If it’s making the usual sounds, but way too loud, it may just be due for maintenance. Or it could be nearing the end of its lifespan. All that wear and tear over the years takes its toll. However, there are some steps you can take to reduce the noise before you seek professional help.

How to Quiet a Noisy Air Conditioner

If your air conditioner unit isn’t making alarming screeches or seeming like it’s about to explode, that’s a good sign. Try out these four tips on how to quiet a noisy air conditioner.

  1. Inspect and Replace the Air Filters
    Most air conditioner noises are preventable through regular annual maintenance. That means an annual HVAC system tune-up that goes beyond the realm of DIY. However, there are some useful things you can do yourself to minimize noise.

    Check the air filters. Replace them if they’re dirty or clogged. An eerie whistling sound could indicate clogged filters, or the fan motor overworking in response to poor airflow. Keeping filters in good condition helps maintain the air circulation that your AC unit needs to run smoothly and efficiently.

  2. Use a Sound Blanket
    One effective soundproofing measure is to use a sound blanket on your outdoor unit. They typically attach without much trouble, since they’re designed for this specific purpose. They’re also designed to cover the unit without causing any problems with the airflow or overheating the motor.

    The fiberglass or polyester material will absorb a good deal of the sound, if not silence the unit. Still, the sound blanket is a simple, affordable, and effective solution for AC noise reduction.

  3. Install a Fence
    If the blanket isn’t cutting it, you can take the extra step of fencing in your AC. It’s the same principle as the blanket, adding another buffer between the noise and your ears. It takes more effort, but this is how to quiet a noisy air conditioner without calling an HVAC technician.

    If you build a fence, be sure to surround the unit from all sides. It should also stand taller than the unit and give it enough space for proper ventilation. You can also buy and install “quiet” fences designed specifically for lowering AC noise levels.

  4. Repair or Replace
    If you deploy the blanket and the fence and it’s still too loud, you should contact an HVAC technician. Whether components need to be replaced, or you’re due for a whole new unit, this amount of noise requires professional attention. A reputable expert will be able to let you know exactly what is happening and what to do about it.

Cool Off in Peace and Quiet

In South Jersey, you won’t find a better way to get the most out of your air conditioning than with Laury Heating Cooling & Plumbing. They know how to quiet a noisy air conditioner quickly, effectively, and affordably. Don’t let the noise ruin your sanctuary – reach out to Laury Heating Cooling & Plumbing today.

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