What’s more annoying than an air conditioner that makes a lot of noise?

An AC with the power to cool without breaking your peace and quiet is definitely worth looking into.

How many decibels does a quiet air conditioner make?

A quiet air conditioner makes about 50dB. 50 decibels is like a running refrigerator and a quiet street.

The quietest air conditioners by type:

Brand	Type	Decibel (Noise level)	Check Price
Pioneer Diamante Series Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner 32dB	Ductless Mini-Split	32 dB	$$$
GE 6,000 BTU Serenity Quiet Window Air Conditioner 43dB	Window Air Conditioner	43dB	$$$
Honeywell QuietSet Whole Room Tower Fan-Black 36dB	Tower Air Conditioner	36dB	$$$
Honeywell 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner 52dB	Portable Air Conditioner	52 dB	$$$
3 Ton Goodman 14 SEER R410A Air Conditioner Split System 71dB	Air Conditioner Split System	71 dB	$$$
Emerson Quiet Kool Energy Star Through-The-Wall Air Conditioner 53dB	Through-The-Wall Air Conditioner	53dB	$$$

Let’s go over the different types of air conditioning systems, how many decibels they make, the pros and cons of each type, how to reduce noise from an AC unit, and what types of air conditioners you should stay away from if noise is a concern.

Window air conditioners are the most common type of AC in homes, and they’re what you’re probably used to, so let’s start with the window ACs.

GE 6,000 BTU Serenity Quiet Window Air Conditioner 43dB

This AC can cool a small room up to 250 sq ft. It is very quiet with 43 dBs.

This AC has three cooling and 3 fan speeds for flexible and optimal home comfort.

You will sleep well because this AC gradually increases temperatures overnight so you can sleep comfortably.

The installation is easy with an included EZ Mount installation kit that you put in the double-hung window.

 

Pioneer Diamante Series Ductless Mini-Split Air Conditioner 32dB

This is a high-efficiency ductless mini split inverter heat pump system. It can be used for cooling and heating. The efficiency is 20 SEER with 10. 5 HSPF (Heating Seasonal Performance Factor). This package includes the indoor (fan coil) section, outdoor (condenser) section, wireless remote controller, 16 ft L line set with other installation accessories, and free vibration absorber feet for the condensing unit.

If the power goes out it will automatically run at the previous settings.

This unit is quiet. Both inside and outside units are very quiet. Normally, the outside compressor unit can be noisy but this one is not. You would not even know it was on from far away unless you were standing right next to it.

 

Honeywell QuietSet Whole Room Tower Fan-Black 36dB

If you want a fan that is quiet, but not too strong, this would be a good choice. The lowest setting makes only some noise.

There are a few things that separate an AC from a fan. A fan is used for simply blowing air and doesn’t offer any cooling power like those found in an ac unit can do with its coils or condenser units, but if you’re looking for a good-looking tower fan that will provide airflow to cool your room, this option is perfect.

Honeywell 8,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner 52dB

Honeywell’s portable ACs are the perfect solution for those seeking to keep their room cool in any circumstance, and without breaking the sound barrier. With one of these units on your side, you will never have to worry about waking up a sleeping baby or partner again!

In this age where people can’t seem to find peace whenever they’re trying to sleep, it is imperative that we be able to take care of ourselves by investing in some high-grade cooling technology. Luckily Honeywell has us covered with our Classic Series Portable Air Conditioners which produce between 51 – 54 decibels at its highest speed setting.

 

3 Ton Goodman 14 SEER R410A Air Conditioner Split System 71dB

The Goodman GSX140361 condenser is made to last and can be used for future expansions. It has a metal cabinet with single-panel access to controls and space for field-installed accessories.

Remember to have it installed by a qualified technician according to your local code to get the full warranty.

Emerson Quiet Kool Energy Star Through-The-Wall Air Conditioner 53dB

This 10, 000 BTU through the wall air conditioner efficiently cools up to 450 sq. ft while saving you money thanks to its Energy Star rating. At 53dB, this unit is among the quietest in the industry and perfect for bedrooms or other medium-sized rooms due to it’s low noise level!

Where does the air conditioner noise come from?

Window air conditioners make noise due to the compressors and fans that are used in order for them to function.

The amount of noise an air conditioning unit makes is measured in decibel (dB).

The average home air conditioner makes about 50 dB of noise. But there are quieter models that can make, as little as 32dB.

The decibel range that a home air conditioner makes is about 32 to 80dB of noise depending on the type of AC and model.

It is important to note that no matter what decibel level you choose for your air conditioner, it will still make some noise due to the compressors that need to function in order for a unit to work properly.

When choosing an air conditioning unit, it is important to consider the noise output of the compressor and fan.

It’s also important to ensure that the exhaust vent isn’t located near a bedroom or living room because this will increase its volume substantially.

A quiet air conditioner is no more than 55 or 60 dB, but it can also be less if the machine has inverter technology and a variable speed compressor.

How many decibels is an average air conditioner?

The average home air conditioner makes about 50 dB of noise and that’s the same as a running refrigerator.

A quiet air conditioner is designed to be quieter than the average AC, so the noise level will be lower in decibels but not totally silent and they are typically between 32 and 50dB.

How do I choose a quiet air conditioner?

• Inverter compressors are quieter than rotary compressors because they don’t start with a loud throbbing noise
• Higher airflow can make an AC unit louder
• Vibrations will produce more sound – any unbalance in the unit can create vibrations so make sure you install it correctly
• Choose a bigger AC capacity size and run it at a slower speed. If you run a lower capacity AC at high speed it will make higher noise levels, with a higher capacity AC you can run it at a much slower speed and that will make less noise.
• Ductless Mini Split AC Units are very quiet.

What brand of an air conditioner is the quietest?

There are some brands that are super quiet and known for their low decibel ratings.

Let’s take a look at the quietest air conditioners on the market.

Quietest window air conditioners available:

• Haier Serenity Series Ultra Quiet Window Air Conditioner 6,000 BTU is designed for small rooms up to 250 square feet. Quiet window air conditioners should have a noise level of under 55 dB. This AC provides ultra-quiet operation at only 43 dB for minimum noise.
• The GE 6,000 BTU Serenity window air conditioner is a great choice for cooling small rooms. This unit features a sleek design that fits into any room decor and delivers ultra-quiet operation at only 43 dB.
• Friedrich Chill Premier Smart Air Conditioner Window Unit 8,000 BTU this window air conditioner is an updated unit that offers you better features and convenience. This AC can be controlled from anywhere using the free FriedrichGo app and a smart device – giving you increased energy savings without sacrificing comfort with its ability to boost the AC one hour before your arrival time by adjusting temperature levels while you are away. And the noise level is just 47 dB. These are also available in heating/cooling versions.

Quietest over 10,000 BTU window air conditioners available:

High airflow means a higher noise level. Bigger AC units are louder because they have high airflow ratings. As you can see they make a little bit more noise, but not that much that it would be annoying.

Window AC unit over 10,000BTU:

• LG 12,000 BTU 115V Window-Mounted Air Conditioner with Remote Control

The LW1216ER is an Energy Star rated air conditioner that operates at low noise levels 53dB!

It has three fan speeds and uses advanced technology (auto-cool) to save you money on your electric bill.

The electronic controls are easy to use, even when using the remote control from across the room! This machine cools rooms up 550 square feet in size (in other words, it’s perfect for medium-sized spaces).

• LG 18,000 BTU 230V Dual Inverter Window Air Conditioner with Wi-Fi Control

Keeps you cool without being too noisy. Sleep better with the ultra-quiet operation. Enjoy peace and quiet at home, even when you’re not sleeping.

This air conditioner is so quiet and the cooling efficiency is really impressive. You’ll probably forget it’s even on, it’s that quiet.

• Friedrich CEW18B33A Chill Premier Smart Air Conditioner Window Unit, WiFi Mobile Control, White, Heating & Cooling Capacity 

As a whole, the Friedrich brand of window air conditioners is well-known for being among the quietest models. You will pay more for a Friedrich air conditioning unit than you would for another brand, but the quality is worth the cost. And you will get super quiet and effective AC.

What is the quietest air conditioner on the market?

If you want the quietest air conditioner available overall you must look into ductless air conditioners and especially Pioneer and Mitsubishi ACs.

Pioneer ductless air conditioners are more than just whisper quiet. These powerful machines offer some of the highest SEER ratings (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) and most efficient performance on the market, all while remaining quieter than other systems in its class with an average noise level of 32 decibels!

How many decibels is a quiet central air conditioner?

The lower the decibel rating, the quieter the air conditioner.

Most residential central ACs range from 50 dB (the sound of rainfall) to 80 dB (the sound of running garbage disposal).

There is a big difference in sound levels between a quiet and loud central AC, but it can be difficult to know how many decibels is in the air conditioner, so how do you know which brand is a quiet central air conditioner?

How to Know Which Central Air Conditioner Is the Quietest

There are some features that can help to reduce the sound level of your AC:

• If you’re interested in an ultra-quiet model, look for those with power inverters and dual compressors.

Determining How Many Decibels Is an Air Conditioner?

A basic way to find out the noise level of a central AC unit is by looking at its specifications or through research online.

A central air conditioner is going to make more noise than a window unit. How much the unit makes depends on the age, size, and brand of the unit.

FAQ

Is 52 dB loud for an air conditioner?

52 decibels is not considered to be loud for an air conditioner. 52 decibels is equal to the sound of a running refrigerator.

How to understand dB levels?

For example, noise at 60 dbA – conversation, a larger window AC unit – is about half as loud as 70 dbA.

You may think that the difference between 60 and 70 is fairly minor, but the truth is that moving from 60 to 70 dbA makes something twice as loud.

Another example of dB levels:

You need to understand this if you want to choose a quiet AC if you got multiple options.

The decibel is not a regular scale, It is a logarithmic scale. For every 10dB increase in sound, the noise doubles in loudness. This means that 60dB is twice as loud as 50dB and 70dB is four times as loud as 50 dB.

Window ac units can range from 37dB to over 70 dB – As you can see, the sound levels between a quiet and loud air conditioner are significantly different.

Is a new air conditioner quiet?

The technology incorporated into the new air conditioners is what sets them apart from the models that were not designed with technology in mind.

With all of the innovative features, the sound levels of your new air conditioner will usually be much quieter than an old unit.

Wear and tear also do make older air conditioners louder.

An older air conditioner may become louder than a newer one. This is simply due to wear and tear over time. The more often that your air conditioner operates, the more likely it is to be noisy.

What can you do to reduce noise from your air conditioner?

You can also find noise reduction kits for your air conditioner that are inexpensive and easy to install. These should help you reduce the noise that your air conditioner produces when it is operating.

Anti-Vibration Pads for Heavy Duty Equipment are also available. These will help you reduce the vibration of your air conditioner and produce less noise as a result.

There is no need for any tools. Just put the pads under the AC and you’re good to go! If they don’t fit right, it’s easy to adjust them.

Noise Reducer Hose this hose can help to reduce the noise from your portable AC. It can cut the noise by up to 50%.

Some HVAC noise can happen if the system is not working well. This happens when there are clogs, damage, or problems with the equipment. If you do regular maintenance, then this will not happen and your AC will work well. This includes clearing season debris, changing filters, draining water, or fixing other problems that might be causing a lot of noise.

Conclusion:

The sound level of your air conditioner can depend on a variety of factors, including age and size.

What should you do to reduce the noise produced by your current air conditioning system or new purchase of an air conditioner that doesn’t seem as quiet as you hoped it would be?

There are a few things you can do to reduce noise from your unit and ensure that it’s not too loud for you:

There are many simple fixes, including adding soundproofing panels and using a sound reducer and you can always ask a professional AC installer for help.

A lower decibel rating is indicative of an air conditioning system that’s quieter than other systems.

Some features that can help reduce the sound level of your AC are dual compressors, power inverters, and ultra-quiet models.

An older air conditioning system may become louder than a newer one due to wear and tear over time. Replacing your old AC with a new one should help make it quieter.

If you have multiple units from which to choose, do your research about their noise level so that you can find the best option for yourself.

But if you have difficulty choosing which is the quietest AC just remember that any AC with 45-60dB is a good choice. It’s just up to you to decide what kind of features the AC should have.