Why Is Your Air Conditioner So Loud?

While it's normal for your air conditioner to make some noise, excessively loud noises are usually a sign of a problem. The problem is often due to something as simple as dirt and debris caught in the unit, but it could also signal a more serious issue.

This article highlights a few of the most common reasons why your air conditioner might suddenly start making more noise than usual.

Your Fan Motor Could Be Worn Out

If you recently noticed that your air conditioner is louder than usual, it could be because your fan motor is worn out. The fan motor helps move the cool air throughout the rooms of your house. It looks like a small metal box with a fan blade inside.

Over time, the fan motor can wear out or start rubbing against something inside the casing. This can cause a rattling sound, which is usually more noticeable when the air conditioner first starts up or after it's been running for some time.

If this happens with your air conditioner, a few simple tweaks might help. First, you'll want to make sure the fan motor is properly lubricated. You may also want to check the fan blade for any debris or dirt that could be causing the loud noise.

If that doesn't do the trick, try adjusting the fan motor so that it's not rubbing against any other components. But if you can't use any of these fixes, it might be time to replace the fan motor altogether. This is something that needs expert attention, so make sure to call a qualified technician.

The Blower Wheel May Need Cleaning

Another reason why your AC unit may sound louder is that there might be a build-up of dirt and debris in the blower wheel.

The blower wheel moves air from the unit to your house with special fins that help distribute it evenly. Dirt build-up can cause the blower wheel to make a grinding sound especially noticeable after the unit has been running for a while. When this happens, the dirt and debris can push against the blower wheel as it rotates, causing it to make more noise than usual.

To fix this issue, you will have to clean out any dust and debris that may have accumulated in the blower wheel for it to run smoothly again. You could also check the fins to make sure they are all evenly spaced, and there is no debris blocking them.

Your Condenser May Be Outdated 

If you have an older model of an AC unit, then chances are that its condenser has slowly given out. Its components may no longer function as effectively as they used to when the system was first installed.

The condenser cools the air before it is pushed inside your home. As it does this, it emits a humming noise that can get louder as time passes. The noise usually results from the condenser's fan motor wearing out or other mechanical parts that are no longer working as effectively.

In this case, an upgrade or replacement would be recommended for maximum efficiency and quieter operation. You might need to call a qualified technician for this part since it can be a bit tricky to handle on your own.

Contact a company like Merrimack Valley Plumbing LLC to learn more.