How To Reduce Air Conditioner Noise When Selecting A New System

by Greg Leisgang on August 29, 2012

Posted in: Air Conditioners

air conditioner noise, Cincinnati, OhioWhen selecting a new air conditioner, many people focus almost solely on how efficiently the unit will cool a room. This is obviously important, but there is a second primary factor that must be considered when purchasing a new unit: air conditioner noise.

As much as we love the comfort of a cooled room, we don't want a noisy unit that invades our personal space. That loud hum might seem fine at first, but give it some time, and you'll discover that the hum has become a roar that you can't handle. This is why it is important to find a unit that suppresses air conditioner noise.

New unit, new soundproofing technology

Luckily, those of us who prefer a quieter air conditioning unit have the benefit of newer soundproofing technologies that lessen the severity of noise. Manufacturers primarily achieve this feat by using advancements in technology that lower the dB (decibel) noise level.

So what makes this new technology superior to older, noisier models? Air conditioners that are crafted today are manufactured with insulated compressors. This is great news, as the compressor is usually the culprit for the bulk of your system's noise. Fan noise has also been reduced via the installation of direct-drive fans that are precision-balanced. Lastly, innovative vent design turns down any hissing or roaring sounds created by airflow.

How much quieter?

To give you an example of how far technology has come, all you need to do is compare the decibel level of older units versus newer ones. Older units were commonly rated at a sound level of close to 80 dB, which can be quite noisy.

Newer units, however, have been lowered to dB levels ranging in the 60s and 70s.  Many people don't know what these numbers mean, but they are simple to understand. In general, an air-conditioning unit at a level of 70 dB will be half as noisy as an 80 dB unit. Sixty dB is half as loud as 70 dB.

For more advice on reducing air conditioner noise, contact the professionals at Tri-County Heating & Cooling.  We've been serving Butler County and the Greater Cincinnati area since 1969.

Image via Shutterstock.com

 Jonle Co. Inc. BBB Business Review  

Website Development & Management by NetCrafters