According to experts who study noise, the normal noise level for an air conditioner is 40 to 70 decibels. This is about how loud your fridge is or how loud it is when you talk to someone in a normal tone of voice. Nowadays, AC manufacturers try to make air conditioning systems as quiet as possible.
The latest types of window units and ductless mini-split systems are a little quieter. At the same time, a central AC with outdoor condensers is a little louder. Your older window AC may also be a bit of a rattletrap. Not only this, different parts of your AC system make different sounds.
Things That Affect AC Noise
A lot of things can affect your air conditioning’s decibel level. Wear and tear can make your AC run louder than you’d probably like, which is why older units are noisier. Your air conditioner can also be too loud because it wasn’t installed properly. The outdoor condenser might not be level, and ductwork may be leaky, for example.
Poor maintenance also makes an AC noisy. You’ll certainly hear your condenser unit if it’s right under your bedroom window. You’ll also hear it if it’s in a corner where its noise is amplified. AC systems that are too big or too small for your home are not just louder than they oughta be. Wrong-sized units won’t cool or heat your house efficiently.
- The compressor gently hums or makes a just audible whirring noise.
- You should also hear a hum from the registers or the susurration of air as it moves in and out of the vents.
- Now and then, you may also hear the clicks of your thermostat as it powers on and off.
Noises That Need Your Attention
If you hear noises other than soft humming or whooshing, have an HVAC technician take a look. Here are the sounds your AC makes when something’s the matter.
- Grinding: The sound of metal clashing against metal. Turn your AC off at the circuit breaker.
- Banging: This noise means that something’s probably come loose inside the unit.
- Clicking: Click-click-click-click indicates a problem with the thermostat.
- Rattling: Rattling may be the sound of loose trash in your outdoor condenser.
- Hissing: This may mean your refrigerant is leaking. Refrigerant is dangerous stuff, so you need to turn the AC off.
- Buzzing: This can indicate a problem with the electrical wiring.
- Squealing: If you hear squealing, it’s likely a worn-out fan belt.
- Gurgling: This may mean air bubbles in the refrigerant line or the drain that takes condensate to the outside.
When it comes to air conditioner sounds, it’s useful to know what’s normal and what’s not. Ask an HVAC technician if you’re not sure. When you need AC maintenance services in Greenville, SC, contact Dipple Plumbing, Electrical, Heating & Air.
