Air conditioners are a necessity in this world. Imagine feeling hot on a scorching, sunny day. All you have to do is click on a switch, and you will feel cold and snug again. Yes, air conditioners are that exceptional!
However, over time, these ACs start to sound bad, especially the window ones. Now, what can you do about that? Well, the first step would be completing reading our article. Fixing the fans or coil fins, strengthening the AC, etc., should do the trick.
In this article, you will get to know how to quiet a noisy window air conditioner and tons of other stuff such as prevention methods. So, are you ready to have a cool and relaxing chill?
Table of Contents
How to Quiet a Noisy Window Air Conditioner
This is the section where you will find all the answers. Here, you will receive all the essential information on reducing an air conditioner’s sound. We have provided you with info and remedies on each of the factors that could be causing the problem. Let us start right away.
Installation
One of the good things about window ACs is that they are quite effortless to install. Nevertheless, getting the perfect installation might be a bit tricky. It would help if you ensured that the unit is accurately fitted inside the window. To do that, all you have to do is push the parts inside the frame.
Anyways, the reason why the sound comes is because of loose fitment. A window AC vibrates quite frantically. Because of that, it makes a lot of sounds. Therefore, making sure that the installations are done right will reduce chances of noise.
The Panel
Window ACs have a panel which might be a crucial factor in the noise department. The panel is externally attached in most window ACs. Because of that, it would vibrate, being fairly noisy. Thus, after checking the installation, you should inspect whether the panel is tightly fitted or not.
The Fan
Well, in ACs, fans play an essential part. Hence, if you are hearing noises from the fan, you should get it fixed immediately. At first, you should check whether something is going on with the fan, especially two parts-Fan Blades.
In the case of fan blades, if they are crooked or damaged, they might produce an ugly sound. Because of the fault, there is a high chance that the fan will hit a surface, making a hideous noise. Whenever such a case arises, we suggest that you immediately attend to the matter and change the fan.
Another issue that might give rise to unwanted noise is the insulation being attached to the fan. So, as the fan rotates, it’s obstructed by the material, thus causing the noise. You can fix this by removing or repositioning the insulation.
Motor
Speaking of fans, another thing that might be resulting in noise is the motor. Generally, noise caused within the motor is due to a lack of lubrication. As the AC ages, the lubrication in the fan lessens. But fixing this problem is quite straightforward.
All you have to do is add a couple of drops of oil onto the motor’s shaft. Make sure that you are very careful while doing this task. If you see that the problem is not because of lubrication, then the issue might be more serious. In that case, we suggest that you change the motor instantly.
The Coil Fins
Sometimes, the coils on the back of your AC could be responsible for the sound. Over time, dust and dirt start piling up on the coil, making an ugly sound. Hence, dusting the coils could solve the problem within a couple of minutes.
The Position
There are times when one part might move from its secure position and touch another part. Now, when two alien parts strike one another, they can make an abnormal sound. The remedy to this problem is to make sure that all the AC parts are positioned correctly.
Strengthening the AC
Finally, if you think that everything is okay, you could do one more thing. You could apply a coating of weatherstripping foams. These make your AC weatherproof. So, you won’t have to worry about anything externally. Also, make sure that the screws and bolts are tightened again!
Why Should We Be Worried If Our Window AC Is Loud?
A window AC can be loud because of several reasons, but it is generally considered to be an indication of a problem with the AC. And, we have to tell you as it is: this is not a good sign. We’ll give you a proper explanation of why this is an issue.
Different sounds have different types of indications.
Hissing Sound
Whenever you hear such a sound, it could be an indication that your AC’s coolant is going through some problem. Conventionally, it is a sign that the coolant is leaking, and you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.
A Rattling Sound
Such a sound occurs because of small particles or loose parts. Whenever you hear this sound, it could mean that your AC is having issues with the fan, motor, etc.
Wailing Noise
If you hear such a sound, there are a few things that you need to check. The first and foremost is the location. By determining the origin of the noise, you would be diagnosing the initial problem. Now, if the sound is coming from the outside, then there could be a problem with the compressor or the fan blade.
On the other hand, if the sound is coming from the inside, then chances are your fan’s blade has worn out. To be more specific, the sound is coming from the blower motor. Without this, the air will not circulate properly. You should get it checked right away.
Buzzing Noise
The buzzing sound can mean three things. Firstly, the noise could be because of damaged or loose wire. Such an issue typically arises in the circuit breaker. There are times when the circuit breaker won’t trip. During these times, you might hear the buzzing sound again.
Lastly, you might hear the sound near the capacitor. You need to get it checked quickly. The capacitor provides electrical supplies to the AC. Hence, you must get this checked as soon as you hear such a noise.
Squeaky Noise
In the case of cars, you would hear this noise every time there is an issue with your car’s fan belt. The same is true for an AC. All you have to do is get it replaced, and your AC should be as good as new.
Whistling Sound
Now, this sound is not due to your AC. Instead, it happens because of your home’s air ducts. Your house doesn’t need to have a perfect air duct for installing AC. And you won’t find this out until you hear this sound. Hearing such a sound could be an indication of that.
Other indications of air duct problems are sticky air, mold development, and doors slamming on their own.
Well, several things could be causing any variety of sound. And the wisest way to make sure that your AC is in tip-top condition is by taking care of it. One way of doing that is by paying attention to these details and making adequate preparations.
Importance of Cleaning ACs and How Often You Should Do It
If you want your AC to keep on providing you with the best performance, then you should be cleaning it thoroughly. The crucial factor about maintaining such a device is consistency. By that, we are implying you should clean the unit often.
And if you are confused about how frequently you should clean your ACs, don’t worry. Cleaning them only once a year will be enough in most cases.
You see, ACs are big machines. Each of their parts is manufactured to ensure exceptional longevity and durability. Therefore, cleaning once per year should be more than enough. Apart from reducing the noise, there are other benefits of maintaining your AC.
One of them is the fact that it reduces energy consumption. If your AC is incapable of performing to its fullest capacity, then you can expect it not to operate efficiently. And if its operation is not efficient, then there will be wastage of energy, which would result in more power used.
Hence, cleaning it would mean that you get the best of both worlds.
Final Words
Thanks to our write-up, not only will you learn how to quiet a noisy window air conditioner, but also you will find out several things regarding noises and ACs. Now you can get a perfect night’s sleep without having to worry about the noise from your AC.