I will show you different methods on how to quiet a noisy window air conditioner without breaking an arm or leg.
Alternatively, you can read my detailed guide on some of the quietest air conditioners on the market today.
You’ll be able to save yourself the time you’d have spent trying to make your existing air conditioner quiet.
However, if you’re on a budget try, the DIY air conditioner reduction hacks stick on as I will highlight all the possible methods.
Ways on How to Quiet A Noisy Window Air Conditioner
Before getting started, I must mention that while the below methods will help reduce noise problems, they won’t make the AC dead silent.
However, the noise will be reduced to manageable levels.
Below are some of the reasons why your air conditioner is noisy and ways to fix the problem.
1. Fan Motor
Window air conditioners are fitted with a double shaft motor with two separate blades.
One of the blades helps draw air into the cold evaporator coil and recirculate it into your house.
The other blade helps dissipate heat from the condenser coil.
When you power on your air conditioner, the fan motor will run continuously.
With time the motor bushes and bearing wear out and start producing unusual noises such as screeching, squeaking, or creaking noises.
You can also read my guide on some of the quietest mini fridges.
Additionally, if the air filter is not well maintained or replaced regularly, the fan blades are bound to accumulate dirt resulting in premature wear to the motor.
Most modern air conditioners are fitted with non-serviceable motors.
As a result, the only option, in this case, would be to replace the motor.
You should verify that the blades are not damaged as well and replace them if possible.
2. Blower Wheel and Fan
Another reason for air conditioner noises could be a problem with the fan.
A well-functioning AC, the motorized fan helps pull air through the filter and then into the cold evaporator coils and then recirculates back into the room.
The second fan on the motor shaft cools the condenser coils located at the back.
If any of the two fan blades are bent, damaged, or probably accumulated dust/dirt that may cause imbalance, they often make unusual noises.
You will need to remove the cover and then inspect the fan blades for signs that they may be contacting the fan housing, cabinet or insulation and then adjusting them accordingly.
Remove dirt/debris accumulation on the blades, the filter, evaporator fan, and condenser coils.
You should verify that the fan blades aren’t warped or damaged and tightly fit the motor shaft.
In some air conditioner models, the fan blade helps circulate the condensate or even drain water onto the condenser coil to improve efficiency.
If the AC is not well installed or the drain port is clogged, then there could be excessive water that could cause the noise problem as the blade makes contact with it.
Unclog the drain.
3. Spring Clamp
We have already seen that a window air conditioner features two fans attached to a single motor shaft.
The two blades are attached to the motor shaft with some sort of spring clamp.
So, if the clamp is weak or worn out, it won’t hold the fan’s hub securely to the motor shaft and as a result, the blade will wobbles, resulting in vibrations and producing some unusual noises.
To check if the spring clamp is to blame, you will need to remove the cabinet and physically inspect the clamps.
Twist them gently to see if the secured fit and check for any signs of damage- and possibly replace if necessary.
4. Fan Bearing
Most modern AC are fitted with a double shaft fan motor with two fan blades.
Others are fitted with a squirrel cage-style blower wheel.
If you have the squirrel cage-style blower wheel and it’s producing some irritating noises, then you could be dealing with a damaged fan bearing/blower wheel.
This blower is fitted with a drive motor attached to one end, and the other end is fitted to a stationary bearing.
Remove the cover to access the fan and then detach the blower wheel & the motor from the bearing for easier replacement.
On how to Quiet a Noisy Window Air Conditioner
Anything with a motor drive will make some noise, and a window air conditioner is no exception.
But if you notice that the AC is producing unusual noises, then it’s time to fix it.
The above guide will help you troubleshoot the possible problem.
If you’re handy enough, you’ll be able to fix the problem without the need of a professional.
Alternatively, you can call a professional to help fix the problem for you.