If your AC unit is outdoors, you can install a fence to act as an air conditioner sound barrier. This will prevent as much sound from traveling outside the fence, creating a barrier. This installation will also help significantly reduce the noisiness of your unit.
The fan motor and compression are the most likely culprits of screeching noises from an outdoor AC unit. For example, a failing fan may squeal or screech loudly and consistently and needs replacement. A compressor may typically let out a brief screech if too much pressure builds up in it when the AC starts up.
You can reduce noise from an air conditioner by installing a sound blanket or sound curtain, choosing the location of the unit carefully, surrounding it with a fence, and adding sound absorbing or sound blocking material to the enclosure.
Sound Blankets will not completely eliminate all of the noise from your air conditioner. They are designed as a cost-effective solution as compared to moving or replacing your air conditioner. In general terms you should expect the noise level to drop by 30% to 50%.
There also is no industry standard that manufacturers must meet. Some manufacturers, however, are striving to make units as quiet as they can be. Ritz says a typical low-end unit might have a noise level of about 78 to 82 decibels, but the best units are about 72 to 78 decibels.
Compressor sound blankets are cleverly designed to drastically reduce the noise still being emitted. These noise suppression blankets wrap the compressors with acoustic jacketing to contain the noise. The acoustic blankets can also be manufactured to cover the piping and oil separator for added sound reduction.
Installing the acoustic blankets lessened the noise level significantly at the property line from 60 dB(A) to 45 dB(A). The improved sound level allows employees to have conversations without shouting.
Mini-split or ductless air conditioning systems such as those by Fujitsu, Mitsubishi, and LG are among the quietest heating and cooling systems on the market, with an average noise level of 32 decibels.
If your AC is making a screeching noise while turning on, it could be possibly due to the motor fan bearings that lack lubrication. If the bearings are accessible, lubricate them with oil, grease or any other lubricant. Also, clean the dust or debris accumulation, which can restrict the bearing's operation sometimes.
Utilizing anti-vibration mounts or pads under the cooler can further reduce noise by absorbing vibrations before they can spread through the floor or furniture. Maintenance plays a vital role in keeping your air cooler running quietly.
An AC squealing noise is usually caused by a worn-out fan belt or malfunctioning motor bearings. An HVAC technician can tighten or replace the belt or lubricate or replace the bearings, respectively.
On average, AC compressor costs range from $800 to $2,300, with most folks paying $1,200 for a new one. However, your price will vary depending on factors like the size and brand of your compressor. Before you schedule your replacement, read on to learn about all AC compressor cost factors.
Install a Fence
Installing a fence is a great way to soundproof your AC unit. It's fairly common to build a soundproof fence to improve the efficiency the fence.
If you are interested in getting an AC compressor sound blanket, you may wonder if they are safe for your unit. The short answer is yes. The blankets are designed to insulate your compressor and prevent the loss of heat. This can also save you money on your energy bill.
Place Sound Barriers Around the AC Unit
While a totally quiet operation is not possible, there are many things you can do to muffle or reduce the noise you experience. A sound blanket can reduce noise by up to 40%.
The duct silencers enable maintaining proper acoustic parameters in the rooms – even reducing noise in the rooms which require a high degree of acoustic comforts, such as e.g. sleeping rooms or reading rooms. The noise can be generated not only by the flow of air through the ducts.
Dust, dirt, and debris around the coil fins, air ducts, and outdoor condenser unit are common causes of noise. Loose or misaligned parts like the fan blades or belt, lack of lubricant, blockage in the drain pipe, copper lines, or vents, and a malfunctioning thermostat can also lead to a noisy air conditioner.
If your air conditioner makes whooshing a noise, that's also not a problem. You will always hear light and gentle whooshing noises when your AC is on. There's air moving through there that makes a sound. This will get louder as you walk under vents.
Experts recommend that this distance should not exceed 15 meters. AVS Heating and Air Conditioning is one of the most trusted HVAC contractors in McLean, VA.