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AC Noise: Tips for Fixing Noisy Air Conditioners

Updated: Mar. 07, 2023

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Outside AC Unit Making Loud Noise? Track down the cause

AC Noise Photo 1: Open the unit

Unscrew and lift off the top panel. The heavy fan motor is mounted on the panel, so have a helper hold it while you install the blanket.

AC Noise Photo 2: Position the air conditioner sound blanket

Unscrew and lift off the top panel. The heavy fan motor is mounted on the panel, so have a helper hold it while you install the air conditioner sound blanket.

Problem: Noisy air conditioner
The outside condenser of a central air conditioning unit can be very loud. Read on to find the best solution based on the cause of the problem.

Noisy air conditioner solution:
Fencing one or all sides of an air conditioner’s outside unit can deflect noise. But experiment first: Prop up plywood around the unit so you can judge how much good a fence will do. If you decide to build a fence, keep it at least 3 ft. from the unit to allow airflow. For the best sound reduction, overlap fence boards instead of leaving gaps between them. Aside from a fence, there are a few other approaches you should consider:

• If your condenser is older, the best solution is a new unit. Newer designs are dramatically quieter than those produced just a few years ago. And they save money. A high-efficiency unit might cut your cooling bills in half and pay for itself in three or four years. The downside, of course, is the initial cost.
• If you already have a newer condenser, the worst noise is probably coming from the compressor. (Fans on newer units are very quiet.) Contact the manufacturer to find a sound blanket for your model or buy a universal blanket (search online for “compressor sound blanket”). Installation is easy. Don’t bother putting a blanket on an old unit—you’ll still hear the noisy fan. Need more repair tips?

Required Tools for this AC noise project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

• 4-in-1 screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench

If you decide to build a wooden enclosure, you’ll need a post hole digger, a level, miter saw and drill.

Required Materials for this AC noise project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

• Compressor sound blanket