Noisy air conditioning units can be unpleasant to listen to and could even breach various noise regulations.
As with any piece of machinery, it should be expected that air conditioning units will make some level of noise, with the compressor often being the loudest component.
In general, the total decibels produced when an air conditioning unit is in operation will depend on its type, age and overall condition. However, sometimes it may be the case that the air conditioning is making loud or unusual sounds that it didn’t previously.
Given noisy air conditioning can be disruptive, it’s always worth investigating the cause of the issue without delay.
At Lee Jackson Air Conditioning, we specialise in all things air conditioning including maintenance and repairs.
Whether you have a domestic or commercial air conditioning unit installed, these are our top tips for reducing noise.
What parts of an air conditioning system can make noise?
The first thing to do when dealing with a loud air conditioning unit is to determine what could be causing the noise. Often, you’ll need a professional to diagnose the issue for you, especially if it’s a new problem.
Some of the noisiest parts of air conditioning can include:
- Air filters
- Compressor
- Condenser coils
- Drain line
- Ductwork
- Electrical components
- Expansion valves
- Fan blades
- Fan motor
- Mounting or casing
- Refrigerant lines
When looking to fix any of the above issues, the problem can be anything from a simple loose screw to a serious problem like a refrigerant leak.
Does your air conditioning need servicing?
Similar to a boiler or a car, air conditioning units also require servicing at regular intervals to help prevent problems from occurring.
It is typically recommended to get air conditioning units serviced once a year. However, this can vary depending on the manufacturer and air conditioning type. For commercial environments, the frequency of servicing should also factor in any health and safety guidance.
By servicing the air conditioning unit, your technician can diagnose faults at the earliest opportunity. Or, if issues such as sudden loud operation occur before the next service is due, you can also have the unit maintained to provide the necessary fix.
Discover our air conditioning servicing
Maintaining air conditioning units between services
Beyond major servicing and repairs, air conditioning systems also require more general attention to keep them working normally.
Air conditioning filters: It’s easy to not pay much attention to air conditioning filters. But dirty filters can make the system work harder, which may result in noisier operation. Replacing the filters at the recommended intervals or cleaning the filters may resolve the issue while also ensuring your air conditioning will work more efficiently.
Look at the fan blades: Notice something off with the fan blades because they look misshapen or misaligned? This may be the source of the noise. If so, the blades should be adjusted or tightened.
Lubricate moving parts: Like all machinery, air conditioning units have moving parts that can be subject to friction, which may increase noise as a result. Check the manufacturer’s guidance to see which parts need lubrication and ensure this is performed regularly.
If the issue persists despite your air conditioning having been installed correctly and having been subject to regular maintenance and repairs, this at least rules out a problem with the unit itself.
Soundproofing
In the event that a professional determines there isn’t a mechanical issue with the air conditioning, it is also possible to get air conditioning screens. These work to conceal the look of the units while also working to reduce the noise.
For air conditioning units installed inside, it’s also worth considering the acoustics of your commercial venue or home. Depending on the types of surfaces in the space, these could be working to increase or absorb the sound.
Soft furnishings such as carpet, plus the likes of acoustic wall panels, can work to absorb sounds. But, when there are lots of hard surfaces like tiles or concrete, noise is deflected around the room.
Therefore, some simple changes such as screening or acoustic dampening treatment to the room can make a huge difference.
Is it time to replace your air conditioning unit?
The final aspect to check in the quest for reducing the noise made by air conditioning is to see if the unit is due for a replacement. Typically, we’d associate older air conditioning systems with being noisy and also less efficient.
Also, it may be the case that the air conditioning unit is beyond economic repair, meaning it would be more effective to replace it.
If you are unsure whether your air conditioning unit needs servicing or replacing, our air conditioning technicians can offer tailored advice. This includes if you are currently dealing with a loud air conditioning unit and need a fix, especially if the noise is disturbing your ability to work or sleep.
In need of air conditioning maintenance or installation?
Lee Jackson Air Conditioning is based in Nottingham, serving the wider East Midlands area of the UK including Nottingham, Leicester and Derby.
To get help with a noisy air conditioning unit, please drop us a message and our technicians will be with you shortly.
Or, give us a call on 0800 949 9070 to talk to us about your domestic or commercial air conditioning needs.
