It’s no secret that commercial air conditioners are loud. But why exactly is this? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the main reasons your building’s commercial AC unit might make a lot of noise.
Location of the Compressor
The compressor is one of the most important parts of an air conditioner and is also one of the loudest. This is because the compressor is responsible for circulating the refrigerant throughout the AC unit.
This component is usually located outside the building, and all the noise it makes is amplified. This cause is generally harmless, but it’s still a good idea to get any strange noises checked out to rule out more sinister reasons.
Age of the Air Conditioner
As an AC unit ages, parts can wear out and break down. This can cause all sorts of problems, including increased noise levels.
If your commercial AC unit is more than 10 years old, it might be time to start thinking about replacing it. Younger units can develop these age-related problems, but they may be resolved by replacing or repairing individual parts rather than the entire system.
Dirty Air Filters
When the air filter is clogged with dirt and dust, it can restrict airflow and cause the AC unit to work harder than it needs to. This can lead to several problems, including increased noise, reduced efficiency, and poorer air quality. Don’t forget to have a professional inspect and clean your air filter regularly to keep this noise and other complications in check.
Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant makes an air conditioner cool, so it’s important to ensure there aren’t any leaks. If your AC unit is low on refrigerant, it will have to work harder to cool the air, and this can cause increased noise.
This issue can quickly grow dangerous if left unchecked. If you suspect a refrigerant leak, be sure to have it fixed as soon as possible.
Imbalanced Fan Blades
The fan blades inside an AC unit can become imbalanced over time. This can cause the AC unit to vibrate and produce more noise than usual.
Resolving this issue can significantly reduce the noise your building’s AC makes. If you notice that your AC unit is vibrating or making more noise than usual, you should have the fan blades checked and balanced by a professional.
Faulty Ductwork
The ductwork is responsible for delivering cool air from the AC unit to the different rooms in your building. If there are any leaks or holes in the ductwork, the air will have to travel through the ducts more slowly.
As a result, this can create a humming or whistling sound. Be sure to have your ductwork checked regularly for any problems.
Ways to Reduce the Noise From Your Commercial Air Conditioner
Commercial air conditioners are large machinery that works hard to cool your building. As a result, you may still hear loud noises from your commercial air conditioner after resolving the above problems. While you can’t eliminate the noise from your commercial air conditioner, there are some things you can do to reduce it.
One option is to install sound-dampening materials around the AC unit. This will help absorb some of the noise and prevent it from echoing off hard surfaces. You can also try to create a barrier between the AC unit and the rest of the building by planting trees or shrubs around it. This will help muffle the noise somewhat.
If you’re still having trouble with noise from your commercial air conditioner, you may want to consider replacing it with a newer, quieter model. Technology has come a long way in recent years, and many AC units now on the market are much quieter than older models. Be sure to ask a professional about your options before making a final decision.
Reach Out Today
When you turn to Bratcher Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. for all of your commercial HVAC needs, you can rest assured that you’ll receive the highest-quality service possible. Our team of experienced commercial AC technicians in Peoria, Illinois, is ready to inspect and resolve any noise problems you may be having.
Whether you need a new AC unit or want to soundproof your existing one, we’re here to help. And if you need assistance with your commercial HVAC system or indoor air quality, our team can assist you with that, too. Since 1983, we’ve proudly served the residents and businesses of Peoria and the surrounding areas. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
