In this blog, we will discuss all the possible ways, strategies and procedures through which we can soundproof a portable air conditioner.
In the summer, especially on those blistering days, air conditioning is nearly a requirement. These coolers aid in the cooling of the body.
Portable air conditioning is beneficial in a variety of ways. However, it is well known that the noise level of some air conditioners can be comparable to sleeping in a room with a helicopter.
Worst of all, a light sleeper can experience this as a mini-hell. As a result, we’ll investigate how to make portable air conditioners quieter.
But first, why would you want to lower the air conditioner’s volume? This is done to lessen total noise, allowing you to enjoy a quiet stay at home.
So, if your air conditioner is making a racket, follow these simple steps and you’ll soon be sleeping peacefully and quietly.
If you don’t want to read the whole thing, here’s my recommendation for the most practical and cost-efficient solution acquire a soundproof air conditioner cover.
Let’s take a look at some of the most prevalent sorts of AC noises before we get into the details.
You may reduce the noise from your portable air conditioner this way. Here are a few ideas.
How to soundproof portable air condition?
Following the best ways to soundproof the portable air condition effectively.
- Picking the ideal location
- Using soundproof blankets
- Using an erected fence around the AC
- Place AC on a Large Carpet
- Place AC on an Anti-Slip Vibration Pad
- Conduct regular maintenance
- Place AC Further and Use Fan Instead
- Play Smart by keeping it Low
First, we need to look at the types of AC noises they make and their possible reason. Following is the list of the noises they make:
5 types of air conditioner noises
- Banging
- Buzzing
- Hissing
- Clicking
- Screeching
Banging
If you hear a hammering noise, your compressor is likely broken.
The compressor is primarily responsible for the circulation of refrigerant, which is the gas or liquid that cools your home.
Inner components of the compressor may become loose as a result of normal wear and tear, causing a banging sound when they come into contact with the exterior casing.
Unfortunately, repairing a faulty compressor is a difficult task. Only purchasing a new air conditioner is an alternative.
Buzzing
Near the outdoor unit and air handler, buzzing noises are prevalent.
It’s a sign that your compressor has an electrical problem that has to be fixed right away.
Loose wiring, a faulty motor, a faulty capacitor, or arcing are the most typical causes.
Hissing
A leaking refrigerant is the most prevalent cause of this air conditioner noise.
A faulty expansion valve and a duck leak are two other possible explanations. To determine the source, you’ll need to call your technician.
The copper coils through which the gas or liquid passes may develop leaks over time. Due to the tremendous pressure in the coil, the refrigerant escapes, making a hissing sound.
Clicking
Various triggers can cause a click sound to be produced.
If a little object becomes lodged in the blower, it may collide with the revolving fan, causing a click sound.
When you try to start the air conditioner, this sound can also be caused by an electrical problem with the capacitor, compressor, or thermostat.
Screeching
It could be caused by a malfunctioning motor blower, faulty fan motor, or bad compressor, depending on where your air conditioner is located.
It’s most likely due to a faulty motor or compressor if the air conditioner is outside.
If your air conditioner is broken within your home, it’s most likely due to a faulty motor blower.
These are the five most common AC noises. So, how can you get rid of these noises?
Let’s find out in the section below, where I’ll show you six of the most effective methods for reducing air conditioner noise.
Picking the Ideal Location
First and foremost, you must select an appropriate place for your air conditioner. For the effective operation and maintenance of a portable air conditioner, this is critical. The exhaust pipe used to vent hot air out, whether through a window, sliding door, or drop ceiling, should be straight and free of twists and kinks.
Exhaust hoses should also not be extended; they should be kept as short as possible to maintain optimal efficiency. Most exhaust pipes are 4-7 feet long, giving you plenty of room to reach an appropriate venting location. Keeping the line short and straight can help prevent excess moisture from accumulating inside the machine, which could cause internal damage.
Use of Soundproof Blankets
You can utilize an acoustic enclosure for air conditioning if you don’t have enough optimal placements.
Thousands of high-quality soundproof blankets are available, but more on that later.
They help to reduce air conditioner noise by dampening the sound. This technique can be combined with the first to considerably reduce the unpleasant sound.
They provide 5 decibels of noise reduction, giving in a 40% reduction in noise.
What’s the best part? They are reasonably priced and will not degrade the performance or efficiency of your air conditioner.
You don’t have to be concerned about your air conditioner overheating because it is built to do so.
| Material Needed |
| Soundproof Blankets |
Use an Erected Fence around AC
After that, put up a modest fence around the air conditioner. While it takes longer to reach the desired result, it is just as effective as the previous two suggestions.
All you have to do is surround it with a four-sided fence. A two-sided one will not help with air conditioner noise reduction, but will instead help with sound reverberation.
As a result, the overall noise level will rise. Erect a barrier so, what are your options? You could use a plant fence, for example. Make sure that the plants outnumber the unit.
Alternatively, a wood fence is an option. The sound waves will be effortlessly absorbed by the wood, resulting in a reduction in overall noise.
As a result, make sure there are at least 2 feet of space between the AC and the wall. Overheating can be caused by a lack of space in between.
Also, remember to prune the vegetation regularly to maintain the predetermined spacing.
Place AC on a Large Carpet
The main reason for the portable AC making sound is the vibration made because of the motor working inside the machine to reduce the vibration against the hard floor, once can place the AC on thick soundproof carpet to reduce noise it is making.
| Material Needed |
| Soundproof Carpet |
Place AC on an Anti-Slip Vibration Pad
Non-slip vibration pads are mostly used to absorb vibration from noise-producing devices such as washing machines, speakers, and dishwashers.
You can acquire one of these mats and place it on top of the portable air conditioner. It also functions as a noise-reducing pad, absorbing motor vibrations. Using such a pad will help in reducing the sound to some extent.
| Material Needed |
| Non-Slip Vibration Pad |
Conduct Regular Maintenance
Finally, make an appointment with your technician for routine maintenance. Damage or obstructions can create air conditioner noise, which can be resolved with regular maintenance. You can use simple tools to do it yourself like cleaning spray and Cleaning brush. For further clarity watch here.
During a routine maintenance visit, you can update your unit, repair parts, and have drains cleaned. Carry out routine maintenance, as a result, you’ll not only reduce air conditioner noise, but also improve air quality, increase energy efficiency, and extend its lifespan.
If you want to make your air conditioner quieter, I recommend doing this once every three months if you use it every day.
| Material Needed |
| Cleaning spray |
| Cleaning brush |
Place AC Further and Use Fan Instead
Being further away from something can help it become quieter.
Using a fan in conjunction with your air conditioner is a simple way to spread that cool air further. It isn’t the most effective approach, but it does give you a lot more room between you and the machine.
Play Smart by keeping it Low
One of the things that makes air conditioners so fascinating is how cleverly they can be used. There’s a lot to be said for consciously employing it rather than merely turning it up to maximum when you need it.
The first step is to understand that air conditioners work better on low power for a long period than on high power for a short period. To put it another way, you should operate your air conditioner on high to chill down an area first. Then, instead of shutting it off, keep it on low to keep the temperature consistent.
Conclusion
The use of a quiet portable air conditioner is an excellent method to make the most of summer. They can let you enjoy areas that would otherwise be too hot to manage.
The preceding measures can help reduce air conditioner noise, and the most crucial is, in my opinion, right from the outset of the purchasing process.
Following that, it’s critical to get your air conditioner serviced regularly, at least once every three months. This will keep the equipment from breaking down and keep it running smoothly.
When purchasing a new air conditioner, take into account components such as fans, compressor insulation, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): How to soundproof a portable air conditioner?
Is it possible for neighbours to complain about air conditioning?
Neighbours who are embarrassed by the sounds of the air conditioners may file a noise complaint. The latter is precisely specified in Public Health Code article R 1334-31.
Why are portable air conditioners so noisy?
A portable air conditioner, unlike a split air conditioner, includes everything in one package. This means that the air conditioning compressor, which is the source of the noise, is incorporated within the shell. There is a lot of noise as a result of this. Because the compressor of a split air conditioner is located outside, it is less noisy.
How do I quiet my indoor air conditioner?
Here are a few ideas for making your central air conditioner quieter.
A compressor blanket should be purchased. Request that a compressor blanket is installed by your HVAC expert. Plant shrubs or bushes. A beautiful bush or shrub can help to muffle the noise from your condenser. Construct a barrier.
How many decibels is a quiet air conditioner?
Air conditioners that are the quietest should have a decibel level of 50 to 60, as anything higher than that may be considered noisy. Smaller portable air conditioners and window units typically have lower dB ratings than larger air conditioners.
Are window air conditioners quieter than portable?
A window air conditioner is a more efficient and quieter choice. Window air conditioners are more powerful and take up less room than portable air conditioners. They are, however, more difficult to install and less mobile. Depending on the time of day, portable air conditioners can be moved between rooms.
Which cools better window or portable air conditioner?
Furthermore, a window air conditioner consumes less energy than a portable air conditioner. As a result, you’ll get more cooling power per BTU. Pay attention to the BTU rating while looking at window units. The larger the number, the more space the unit can cool.
