How to Stop Your AC Unit From Making All That Damn Noise
Not only are window air conditioners critical for keeping cool during the hot summer months (at least for those without a central air conditioner), they can also provide the soothing white noise that some people enjoy in the background while working or sleep.
Unfortunately, they are not always silent. In fact, they can make quite a bit of noise – to the point where you have to choose between dealing with the noise or turning it off and sweating. The good news is that sometimes sounds are easy to spot and fix. Here are some examples of why this can happen and how to get your AC unit to turn off.
Why is my AC unit making so much noise?
Loud air conditioner window units aren’t just annoying – they’re usually caused by something that needs attention anyway. Here are some of the possibilities and how to fix them – just be sure to unplug the AC unit before trying any of these:
It’s dirty
Given their location on your window, it’s no surprise that AC units get dirty, dusty, and clogged over time. Sometimes it accumulates enough inside that it can get stuck in the fan or other parts of the machine and make noise.
Solution: We advocate trying the simplest solution first, so clean it thoroughly before checking other parts of your AC box. This post will walk you through the whole process.
He needs a new filter
Similarly, if your window air conditioner’s filter is meant to be replaced, failure to do so could clog the evaporator coil and cause noise.
Solution : Replace the air filter following the instructions in a previous Lifehacker post . And while you’re there, clean the coil fins .
He needs lube
Like most machines, some AC units require lubrication to keep running smoothly, and without it, they can start to make noise.
Solution : Check the fan motor housing for oil passages. If so, remove the caps from one and put a few drops of mild (SAE-10) detergent-free oil into each port, being careful not to get any oil on the engine’s electrical components. More information and instructions are available here .
It has a loose screw (or maybe a few)
As the AC adapter is used, screws and other parts may loosen over time , causing a rattling sound.
Solution : Inspect the device carefully (remove the cover and look inside) and tighten any loose screws or other fasteners.