How to Quiet a Window Unit Air Conditioner

Vibration is most likely the culprit of that annoying sound coming from your window air conditioner. Track down the cause and fix it yourself.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Wood Shims
• Insulating Cellophane Tapes
• Window-type Air Conditioners
• Putty
• Putty Knives

1. Tighten the screws holding the front panel onto the unit.

2. Check the window around the unit. Turn the air conditioner on and press your hand against the sash. If the sound changes in pitch as you press your hand on the sash, put some wooden shims between the window frame and the sash. If the pitch changes when you press your hand on the glass, use some insulating cellophane tape between the glass and the frame. If that doesn't help, you may have to use putty.

3. Pull the unit out of the window if the sound seems to be originating from within. Make sure the fan blades aren't bent. If one is, simply bend it back until it matches the others.