Window AC Making Noise

Are you tired of the constant noise coming from your window AC unit? It can be extremely frustrating, especially when you’re trying to sleep at night. Fortunately, you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience the same issue. In this article, we’ll cover all the different noise types in window ACs, assess the level of danger associated with each noise, and provide expert solutions to fix them.

Types of AC Noises with Reasons:

Here is the detail of AC Noises with some Reasons.

Window AC noise	Reason	Dangerous
Humming Noise	When the compressor is faulty, the humming noise becomes obvious while running to cool the room. If the window AC unit is not securely installed in the window, it may vibrate and produce additional noise.	No
Buzzing Noise	Buzzing noise can be caused by an electronic issue or a stuck moving part that causes the AC power supply to overload. This can be a potentially dangerous situation and requires immediate attention from a professional technician.	Yes
Scratching Noise	This noise comes due to the internal friction in the compressor or fan. While this may sound unpleasant, it does not pose any immediate danger to the unit or the user.	No
Clicking Noise	Very normal and easy one, this noise is produced by the thermostat switching power settings. This is not a cause for concern and does not pose any danger to the unit or the user.	No
Rattling Noise	Usually rattling noise may indicate that there are loose parts inside the AC unit or the window setup. This can include the fan, compressor, or other components. Loose parts can affect the performance of the unit but are generally not dangerous.	No
Whistling/Hissing noise	A whistling or hissing noise may indicate a refrigerant leak in the unit. Refrigerant leaks can be harmful to both the environment and the user, and require immediate attention from a professional technician.	Yes
Crackling Noise	A crackling noise may be caused by parts expanding or compressing due to temperature changes. While this can be a bit alarming, it is generally not dangerous and does not require any action.	No
Gurgling Noise	When air trapped in the condensate drain or refrigerant lines, such noise is produced. This is generally not dangerous but can affect the performance of the unit.	No
Knocking/Banging Noise	A banging or knocking noise can be caused by a broken compressor or fan. This is a potentially dangerous situation that requires immediate attention from a professional technician.	Yes

Note: The table provides a more detailed explanation of the different noises that a window AC can make, their reasons, and whether they are dangerous. It is important to note that any unusual noise coming from a window AC should be inspected by a professional technician to ensure safety and proper functioning of the unit.

Window AC Making Noises? 9 Problems 9 Solutions

Here we will examine each of the noises that may come from a window air conditioner, one at a time. For each noise, an introduction will be given to explain the cause of the sound, followed by instructions on how to test for the cause and how to fix it. If possible, we will also include a section on how to prevent each noise from occurring again in the future.

1. Humming Noise:

The most common noise that window air conditioners make is a humming sound, which is always an indication of vibration. Since these air conditioners are placed inside windows, the humming noise they make can spread throughout the entire wall and even into other rooms.

All air conditioners, including window units, contain a compressor. The compressor’s job is to liquefy gaseous refrigerant. The liquid refrigerant then absorbs heat from the room and cycles back through the compressor as a gas. This process moves the heat from the room outside.

Common Causes of Buzzing Noise in Window ACs:

The compressor is the loudest part of an air conditioner, and it is also the most important part. Unfortunately, there is not much that can be done about the noise that the compressor makes. Generally, window air conditioners are relatively quiet, with many models producing only 52 decibels, which is similar to the noise level of a quiet refrigerator.

However, if the frequency of the humming noise from your window air conditioner matches the resonant frequency of your wall or window air conditioner setup, the humming noise can become very loud.

All objects have a frequency at which they begin to vibrate uncontrollably. This is known as the resonant frequency. When you sing in the shower, you may notice that some tones sound louder than others. This is because you are hitting the shower’s resonant frequency.

If your window air conditioner hits the resonant frequency of your room, walls, or window, the humming noise will be amplified. Fortunately, the issue is not with the air conditioner itself, which makes this problem relatively easy to fix.

How to Test Buzzing Noise?

There are two ways to check the resonance in your room, One method is to turn on your window air conditioner and feel whether the window and walls vibrate. Another method is to try to match the frequency of your window air conditioner with your voice and see if your voice sounds louder.

You can also check whether your window air conditioner is hitting the resonant frequency of your room by installing it in another window in another room. However, this is time-consuming and requires effort, so it may not be worth it.

How to Fix Window AC Buzzing Noise?

There are two ways to fix the humming noise of a window air conditioner.

• First, you need to make sure that your air conditioner is firmly seated in your window and cannot shake around.
• Secondly, many window air conditioners come with insulating foam tape, which should be used. If you no longer have the tape that came with your unit, you can purchase insulating foam tape for air conditioners online.

The tape, walls, and window will absorb the vibrations from your window air conditioner. You can also add damping materials to your room, such as a simple carpet on the floor or soundproofing foam mounted on your walls.

2. Buzzing Noise:

The Buzzing noise coming from AC can be very frustrating, Not only can it disrupt your peace and quiet, but it can also indicate a problem with your unit. In this article, we’ll discuss the common causes of buzzing noise in window ACs and how to fix them.

Buzzing noise in your window AC can be annoying, but it’s usually a sign of a more significant issue with your unit. By identifying the cause of the buzzing noise and taking appropriate steps to fix it, you can prevent further damage to your window AC and ensure that it runs smoothly.

Common Causes of Buzzing Noise in Window ACs:

Window ACs are susceptible to buzzing noise, mainly because they contain several electrical components that can vibrate and produce noise. Here are the most common causes of buzzing noise in window ACs:

1. Faulty compressor: The compressor is the heart of your window AC, and when it malfunctions, it can produce a buzzing noise. The compressor can become stuck due to lack of use or worn-out bearings.
2. Stuck fan: Like the compressor, the fan can also become stuck and produce a buzzing noise. A dirty or clogged fan can prevent it from rotating correctly.
3. Electronic issues: Buzzing noise can also originate from the power electronics if there is a fault in the circuitry.

How to Test Your Window AC:

Before you start troubleshooting your window AC, it’s essential to determine the cause of the buzzing noise. Here’s how to test your unit:

1. Turn on your window AC and check if it’s blowing cold air. If it’s not, your compressor or fan may be faulty.
2. If the air is cold, listen for the buzzing noise. If you hear it, it’s likely an issue with the power electronics.

How to Fix Buzzing Noise of Your Window AC:

Once you’ve identified the problem, you can now take steps to fix your window AC. Here are some solutions:

1. Clean your compressor and fan: If the buzzing noise is due to a stuck compressor or fan, unplug your window AC and open the case. Check the compressor and fan for dirt and clean them thoroughly. You should also check the bearings by manually rotating them to ensure they turn smoothly.
2. Replace the fan: If the fan’s bearings are broken, you can purchase a replacement fan and install it yourself. Ensure that you buy a fan that’s compatible with your window AC.
3. Replace the compressor: If the buzzing noise persists despite cleaning the compressor or fan, it’s likely that the compressor is faulty. Unfortunately, replacing the bearings in the compressor is not easy and requires special tools. In this case, it’s best to replace the entire compressor or the window AC.
4. Check the electronics: If the buzzing noise originates from the power electronics, you may need to inspect the circuitry for any blown or broken-off parts. If you identify the faulty component, replace it with an identical one (which may require soldering).

If you have a window air conditioner, you might have noticed a scratching noise coming from it. This can be an annoying and distracting sound, especially when you’re trying to sleep or work. But what causes this noise, and how can you fix it? In this article, we’ll explore the possible reasons why your window AC is making a scratching noise and provide some solutions to get rid of it.

3. Scratching Noise:

Scratching noise is quite difficult to ignore especially at nights, you need a clam and clean atmosphere in Summer, to eradicate you don’t need to be a professional anymore, you can simply try a few things to avoid such unpleasing noises coming from the Window Ac.

What are the Causes of Scratching Noise?

The scratching noise in your window air conditioner can have various causes. Let’s look at some of the most common ones:

1. Insects or Animals: One possible cause of scratching noise in your window AC is insects or animals. Bees, wasps, hornets, or other small creatures may find their way into the AC unit and start building their nests inside. As they move around, they scratch the components, creating the scratching noise.
2. Faulty Fan or Compressor: If the scratching noise only occurs when your window AC is running, the issue may be with the fan or compressor. The fan and compressor are the only moving parts in a window AC, so any issues with them can create a scratching noise.
3. Loose Components: Another cause of scratching noise in your window AC could be loose components. The components inside the unit may become loose over time due to regular wear and tear, creating a rattling or scratching noise.

How to Test for Scratching Noise in Window AC?

Before you can fix the scratching noise in your window air conditioner, you need to find out what’s causing it. Here are some tests you can perform:

1. Check if the noise occurs when the AC is turned off. If the scratching noise continues even when the AC is turned off, it’s likely that insects or animals have made their way into the unit.
2. Punch the AC where the noise is coming from. If the scratching noise changes when you punch the AC, it may be due to loose components. If the noise gets stronger, it’s likely due to insects or animals inside.
3. Listen to the noise carefully. If the scratching noise only occurs when the AC is running, it may be due to a faulty fan or compressor.

How to Fix Scratching Noise in Window AC:

Once you’ve determined the cause of the scratching noise in your window air conditioner, you can take steps to fix it. Here are some solutions:

1. Remove Insects or animals: If insects or animals are causing the scratching noise, you can remove them by using an anti-insect spray. Carefully open the AC unit’s case and see if there’s a nest inside. Depending on the laws in your area, you may be able to remove the nest yourself and relocate it to nature or spray-destroy the nest.
2. Tighten Loose Components: When there are loose components, such noise is created, you can tighten them. You’ll need to open the AC unit’s case and look for any loose screws or bolts especially where the AC is placed, for this you must have good brackets such as Qualward Air Conditioner Bracket. Tighten them carefully, but don’t over-tighten them, as this can cause damage.
3. Replace Faulty Fan or Compressor: The scratching noise is due to a faulty fan or compressor, you’ll need to replace them. This can be a bit more challenging and may require the help of a professional. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional help to replace the fan or compressor.

Scratching noise in your window air conditioner can be annoying and distracting. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can determine the cause of the noise and take steps to fix it. Remember to keep your AC unit clean and maintained to prevent any future issues. With a little effort, you can enjoy a quiet and comfortable home, free from scratching noise.

4. Clicking Noise:

Is your Window AC is making a clicking noise, If you own a window air conditioner, you may have experienced a clicking noise coming from it. While it may be annoying, clicking sounds are not uncommon in a running window AC. However, if the noise persists or seems unusual, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.

There are different reasons behind clicking sounds in window ACs and provide solutions to fix them.

Identifying the Source of Clicking Noises in Window ACs

There are several potential causes of clicking sounds in window ACs. Below are some of the most common ones:

Relais Switch:

The most typical sound is the clicking of a relais switch. This switch is an electrical component that magnetically attracts a metal piece when you apply voltage. The metal piece then snaps into the circuit and closes it, producing a clicking sound.

Temperature Change:

Temperature change is another factor that can cause parts of your window AC to click against each other. This is especially common right after turning the AC on or off, as the greatest temperature changes occur during these times.

Added Weight:

If you’ve recently installed your window AC, the walls and window frame supporting it may need time to adapt to the added weight. This can cause occasional clicking noises, even when the AC is turned off.

How to Test for the Source of Clicking Noises in Window ACs

Here are the common tips you can use to avoid Clicking noise coming from the Window AC or Split AC.

Running AC:

Consider one thing if the clicking only occurs when your window AC is running, it’s likely just the switching sound of the thermostat. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

Temperature Change:

When your window AC clicks only shortly after turning it on or off, temperature change is the likely cause. This is also normal and nothing to worry about.

Not Running AC:

Please note one thing more, if the window AC clicks when it’s not running, it may be due to the added weight on the walls and window frame. In this case, try adding some support to hold the AC’s weight.

How to Fix Clicking Noises in Window ACs?

Check out the ways to solve this issue, here are some solutions you can try:

Running AC:

You don’t need to do anything. Clicking up to 5 minutes after shutting it off is also acceptable, as some parts need time to expand.

Temperature Change:

Changing the temperature may cause clicking noise, you don’t need to do anything. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

Not Running AC:

If your window AC clicks when it’s not running, try adding support to hold its weight. Placing a pedestal, table, or stool below the AC and adding books to fine-tune the height can help you determine if lack of support is the issue. If it is, consider installing a window AC support bracket for proper support.

Do you know that a clicking noise in window ACs is a common fault and usually nothing to worry about. However, if the noise persists or seems unusual, it’s best to consult a professional. By identifying the source of the clicking noise and following our solutions, you can enjoy a quiet and functional window AC.

5. Rattling Noise:

Is your window AC making a rattling noise? If yes, then it’s a clear indication that something is going wrong. The constant rattling sound could indicate loose parts hitting each other. Generally, all the components in a window AC are fixed, so they don’t rattle around. However, if you are hearing rattling, then it is probably due to a moving part in your AC, such as the compressor or fan.

Let’s go through a step-by-step process on how to test and fix a rattling noise in your window AC.

How to Test the Rattling Noise?

To begin with, you have to unmount your window AC. First, you can check if your window AC rattles by tilting it back and forth while it’s placed on one edge. Listen carefully for any loose parts clanging against each other. If you don’t hear any rattling noise, then try tilting the window AC on another edge.

Some other noises may come from the AC, you need to check out, it is better to open the case of your window AC until you can see the fan. Ideally, you should also open everything until you see the compressor. Then, turn it on and listen to where the rattling sound is coming from. If you hear the rattling, it will help you track down the noise until you find the faulty part. If you don’t hear any rattling, then it means that the cause is not a loose part, but a loose window setup.

How to Fix the Rattling Noise?

Once you have located the faulty part, it’s time to fix it. If the rattling noise is coming from the fan, then it’s relatively easy to replace it. You can purchase a similar fan online or in a hardware store and replace it. You may need to do some soldering, but aside from that, there are no difficulties.

If the rattling noise is coming from the compressor, find out whether the compressor rattles as a whole or from its inside. If the compressor rattles as a whole, it means that it doesn’t sit tightly, and you might need to screw it in tighter. Alternatively, you can dampen the rattling with sponges placed below your compressor to hold it upright. Before you reinstall your window AC, test this and ensure that the compressor doesn’t get too hot.

However, if the compressor rattles from its inside, then it’s best to replace your window AC with a new one. You can sell the broken one or dispose of it in an eco-friendly way.

A rattling noise in your window AC is not only annoying but also a sign that something is wrong with your unit. If you hear a rattling noise, follow the steps outlined above to test and fix the issue. With the proper diagnosis and repair, your window AC will be working correctly, and you can enjoy cool air without any annoying sounds.

6. Whistling or Hissing Noise:

Whistling or hissing noises can be concerning when coming from your AC unit. It’s essential to know what these sounds could mean and how to fix them. There are two main causes of whistling or hissing in AC units: gas leaks and capacitor failure. In this article, we’ll explore both of these issues, how to test for them, and what you can do to fix them.

What are the causes of Whistling or Hissing?

There are following causes of Whistling or Hissing of the Window AC, check the same provided as under.

Gas Leaks in AC Units:

Gas leaks are a common cause of whistling or hissing noises in AC units. These leaks occur when refrigerant gas passes quickly through a crack or a loose connection point in a pipe. The gas passing through the pipe creates a high-pitched whistling noise because it excites vibration in the pipe.

Capacitor Failure in AC Units:

Capacitor failure is another cause of whistling or hissing noises in AC units. Capacitors can whistle when they break down or when other parts they’re connected to break. This can create high-frequency voltages that cause the capacitor to vibrate and whistle.

How to Test the causes of Whistling or Hissing?

Testing for Gas Leaks:

To test for gas leaks, open your window AC and try to locate the whistling or hissing sound. If the noise originates from the pipe, then it’s likely a gas leak. If you’re unsure, it’s best to call a professional to come and diagnose the issue.

Testing for Capacitor Failure

To test for capacitor failure, turn off your AC unit and remove the cover to access the electronic circuit boards. Look for any bulges, cracks, or leaks on the capacitor. If you see any of these signs, it’s likely that the capacitor is broken.

How to Fix the causes of Whistling or Hissing?

Fixing Gas Leaks:

Unfortunately, quick-fix solutions like AC leak sealant products found online are not trustworthy. Ideally, you should get a replacement pipe. However, this requires sucking out the refrigerant, replacing the pipe, and then recharging the pipes with refrigerant. This process can be very troublesome and could cause more damage than repair. At this point, your best choice is to get a new window AC. Window ACs cost less than a window AC repair, and scrap dealers will usually happily buy your broken window AC!

Fixing Capacitor Failure:

If the cause of the whistling or hissing is a broken capacitor, then you can replace it with an equivalent replacement capacitor. However, this process requires soldering, so if you can’t solder, it’s best to get a new AC unit.

When to Get a New AC Unit?

If the gas leak or capacitor failure is too severe, it’s time to consider getting a new AC unit. It’s important to weigh the cost of repair versus the cost of a new unit.

Cost Comparison:

As previously mentioned, window ACs cost less than window AC repairs. If you need to replace a pipe or capacitor, the cost of the repair could be higher than the cost of a new unit. Additionally, scrap dealers will usually buy your broken window AC, so you can recoup some of the cost.

Whistling or hissing noises coming from your AC unit could be a sign of gas leaks or capacitor failure. If you suspect either of these issues, it’s important to take action right away to prevent further damage to your AC unit.

Testing and fixing the issue can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with AC repair. In the case of a refrigerant gas leak, it’s best to avoid quick-fix solutions like leak sealant products and instead opt for replacing the pipe. However, this can be a complicated process and may require professional help. If the cost of repair outweighs the cost of a new unit, it’s best to replace the window AC.

Ignoring these noises could lead to more significant issues with your AC unit, so it’s essential to address the problem as soon as possible. Regular maintenance and inspection of your AC unit can also help prevent these issues from occurring in the first place.

If you hear whistling or hissing noises coming from your AC unit, don’t ignore them. Address the issue promptly to avoid further damage and potential safety hazards.

7. Crackling Noise:

If there is a crackling noise coming from the Window AC you need to take preliminary precautions to avoid upcoming problems. Let’s go through the causes of crackling noises in ACs, how common they are, and what you should do if your AC is crackling continuously.

What Causes Crackling Noises in ACs?

Crackling is usually a sign of parts contracting or expanding due to temperature changes. Whenever you turn your AC on, it crackles occasionally for a few minutes. This is due to the case and the internal AC parts adapting to the new temperature.

Crackling can be very present in ACs since the internal components in an AC are exposed to large temperature gradients. The cold air coming out of a window AC can be as cool as 64°F (18°C), while the back part, containing the compressor and the refrigerant gas which absorbs the heat, can be up to 104°F (40°C) or hotter (depending on the outdoor temperature).

So, whenever you turn on your window AC, you create this 40°F temperature difference. Some parts cool down (contract) and some parts heat up (expand). It takes some time for the parts to settle and adapt to their new size, which the occasional crackling sound shows.

How Common is Crackling in ACs?

You find crackling sounds in all HVAC devices, not just ACs. All space heaters crackle after turning them on. So, the crackling is nothing to worry about, except:

The crackling should only occur shortly after turning your window AC on. And it can occur after you turn your window AC off.

Should You Be Concerned About Crackling Noises in Your AC?

If your window AC crackles continuously, there might be another issue. One possible reason could be unstable components that change temperature frequently and don’t settle for an equilibrium temperature. This indicates an error in the thermostat control design.

Usually, this happens with very cheap window ACs, or when the temperature sensor is badly calibrated or broken.

What to Do if Your AC is Crackling Continuously?

If your window AC crackles continuously, the thermostat control mechanism is likely broken or poorly calibrated by the manufacturer. In this case, you should contact a professional to fix the issue.

How to Test Your AC for Crackling Noises?

Turn your window AC on. If your window AC crackles only shortly after turning it on or off, there is nothing to worry about. If your window AC crackles continuously, the thermostat control mechanism is likely broken or poorly calibrated by the manufacturer.

Can You Fix Crackling Noises in Your AC?

You can’t really fix the crackling. Technically, it is not dangerous and, as long as your window AC works fine otherwise, the crackling is a mere inconvenience. It just shows that the internal temperature is not stable and changes occasionally.

When to Replace Your AC?

Most window ACs don’t crackle beyond a few minutes after turning on. However, if your AC is crackling continuously and cannot be repaired, it might be time to replace it with a new one.

8. Gurgling Noise:

Is your window air conditioner making a gurgling noise? Don’t ignore it! Gurgling noises in your AC are an indication of bubbles moving around and popping in liquids. If you want to fix this issue, you need to determine the source of the sound.

We will explain the possible causes of gurgling sounds in your window AC and how to fix them. We will also provide tips on how to test your AC to identify the root cause of the problem.

Possible Causes of Gurgling Sounds in Your Window AC?

Gurgling sounds can come from two components of your window AC: the water drainage system and the refrigerant ducts.

Water Drainage System The most common cause of gurgling sounds is trapped air in the water ducts. This can happen when there is a blockage in the drainage system, preventing water from flowing smoothly. The trapped air in the water ducts creates a gurgling sound.

Refrigerant Ducts Another cause of gurgling sounds in your AC is the refrigerant duct system. Air can somehow get into the ducts, or the refrigerant can cause a gurgling sound on its own. This happens when there is an imbalance between refrigerant gas and refrigerant liquid.

How to Test Your Window AC for Gurgling Sounds?

The first step to fixing gurgling noises in your window AC is to identify where the sound is coming from. Here’s how you can test your AC to determine the source of the problem:

1. Open the AC’s case and try to listen to where the sound is coming from.
2. Run your window AC without the water ducts attached. Instead, drain the water directly into a drain pan or a bucket. This will help you determine whether the gurgling sound is coming from the water drainage system or from somewhere inside the AC.

How to Fix Gurgling Sounds in Your Window AC?

If you have identified that the gurgling sound is coming from the refrigerant ducts, you should hire a professional to vent the ducts. You should also check whether there is any leak in the ducts, as air cannot magically pass through metal pipes.

If the gurgling sound is coming from the water system, drain all the water from the pipe. You should also clean the ducts using a pipe brush to remove any blockages. We recommend using a drain brush that is at least 67 inches long, as this should be long enough for most window AC drainages on the first floor. If you need a longer brush, you can get one or disassemble your water drainage and clean the individual ducts separately.

Gurgling sounds in your window AC can be irritating, but they can also indicate a more serious issue. By testing your AC and identifying the source of the problem, you can fix the gurgling sound and ensure that your AC is running smoothly. Remember to hire a professional for any complex issues and always take safety precautions when working with your AC.

9. Banging or Knocking Noise:

If you own a window air conditioning unit, you know how important it is to keep it running smoothly. A sudden banging or knocking noise coming from your AC unit is always a sign that something is wrong. In this article, we’ll go over what might be causing the noise, how to test for the problem, and how to fix it.

What are the Causes of Banging or Knocking Noise?

A one-off knocking sound means that some part of your AC unit has broken off. This could be anything from a plastic fan blade to a more significant part, such as the compressor. However, if the noise is continuous, it’s a sign that a rotational part has broken off and is still moving around. This is more dangerous than a one-off knocking sound, and you should immediately shut off your window AC and stop using it until you know exactly what the problem is.

How to Test the Banging or Knocking Noise?

The first thing you should do when you hear a banging or knocking noise coming from your window AC is to shut it off. Then, open the case and see whether you can locate any broken parts. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can try turning the AC back on to see if the noise persists. However, if the noise is continuous, it’s best to leave the unit off and call a professional.

How to Fix the Banging or Knocking Noise?

If you can locate the broken part, inspect the surrounding area to determine whether you can fix the problem yourself. For example, if it’s just a broken-off plastic fan blade, you can replace the fan yourself. However, if the entire compressor has broken off and caused the banging sound, you may have no choice but to replace the entire unit.

What are the Quality Control Issues Here?

It’s worth noting that quality window ACs should never produce banging or knocking sounds. If your unit is making these noises, it’s a sign of severe quality control issues. We recommend replacing your window AC with a quality brand product to avoid similar problems in the future.

Dealing with a banging or knocking noise from your window AC can be stressful, but it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage. By identifying the problem, testing for the issue, and fixing it yourself or with the help of a professional, you can get your AC unit back up and running smoothly in no time.

Conclusion:

If your Window AC is making a persistent noise and you are also unable to resolve the same, you need you to change your AC, I highly recommended the Midea 10,000 BTU EasyCool Window Air Conditioner that is smartly designed to provide amazing cooling with in the room. With its smart design and quality construction, you can be sure that you’re investing in a product that will keep you cool and comfortable for years to come.