Window AC compressor question

[ssbtech]

I'm looking at replacing my Danby window A/C. It's a big one, 13,800 BTU/Hr but it's noisy. And since I'm in an apartment I'm feeling a little guilty at annoying the neighbour.

I see that LG makes a 12,000 unit that uses a rotary compressor. I'm sure my Danby uses a reciprocating type.

Can anyone give me some idea of the noise difference between the two units? Will the rotary be smoother and quieter?

Thanks!

 

[metlmunchr]

Don't think you'll find much difference in actual compressor noise. Both recip and scroll type hermetic compressors in small sizes are pretty quiet. The bulk of your noise should be air noise with a lower frequency hum when the compressor cycles on.

That said, if you're getting a significant increase in noise with the compressor running then its likely a new unit would be quieter. All window units are comparatively noisy by nature, but the newer ones use a lot of plastic and styrofoam in their construction, which tends to dampen noise much more than the all steel construction typical of older units.

Also, the rubber vibration isolators under the compressor on older units can collapse over time and allow a lot of noise transmission to the unit case which wouldn't occur if the isolators were in good shape.

 

[ssbtech]

It's only about 7 or 8 years old with a few months use in the summer. It's no louder now than when it was new. I mount it on thick pads to dampen the vibration. It's a steel chassis, but the rubber isolators under the compressor seem fine. It's the buzzing and the hard-start of the compressor cycling off and on that bother me and can easily be heard downstairs. I have a fairly new portable unit and it has the buzzy compressor.

This is the one I was looking at: http://www.lg.com/us/air-conditioners/lg-LW1216ER

It has an outdoor noise rating of 60db. Nothing is specified for my current unit's noise rating.


What type of compressors do ductless split inverter systems commonly use? The outdoor unit is nearly silent even running at full tilt.

Fan noise isn't such an issue, I just want a less invasive compressor noise.

Cheers.

 

[ssbtech]

Hmm.. upon further investigation, it appears that the compressor in my old Danby unit is a rotary compressor already

http://www.samsungparts.com/Products/Parts_and_Accessories/PID-44B135HXAEL.aspx

I didn't think a rotary would be so buzzy.