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HomeRepair HelpKenmore Central A/C RepairKenmore Central air conditioner is noisy or loud Repair
Kenmore Central air conditioner is noisy or loud
When your Kenmore central air conditioner is making loud noise, start with the outdoor condensing unit and shut off power at the disconnect box before inspecting it. Debris hitting the condenser fan blade is the most likely cause, so clear leaves, sticks, and other objects from inside the unit. If the air conditioner is still making noise, the condenser fan motor may have worn bearings. With power off, rotate the motor by hand; it should turn smoothly without grinding or resistance. Loose grille or cabinet panels can also vibrate and cause central AC making loud noise, so tighten any loose fasteners. Next, inspect the condenser fan blade for damage, looseness, or a loose set screw. A defective blade or condenser fan motor can create persistent AC fan motor noise and may require replacement. Finally, a failing contactor can buzz or chatter, and can prevent the unit from cooling. Testing or replacing the contactor involves 240V line voltage and should be handled by a qualified technician unless you have the proper training. Enter your Kenmore model number to find the exact condenser fan motor, fan blade, or contactor for your central air conditioner.
01 - Debris Hitting Fan
Over time debris can fall into the condensing unit, causing a noise when the fan is running. Inspect the fan blade and inside the unit for any debris. Clean out the outdoor unit as needed but be sure to shut off power to the unit before attempting to clean it out.
Top Solution
02 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Fan Motor
The fan motor has bearings that can wear out over time. When the bearings are worn out, they make loud noise. To check the bearings, try rotating the fan motor by hand. If the motor does not turn smoothly, replace it.
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Highly Likely
03 - Panels Vibrating
If the outdoor condensing unit is noisy, the grille or one of the panels may be loose and vibrating. Check for loose panels and tighten them as needed.
Highly Likely
04 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Fan Blade
The fan blade on the condenser fan motor might be defective or loose. To check the fan blade, wiggle the fan motor shaft. If the motor shaft is loose, tighten or replace the set screw. If the condenser fan motor is still making noise, replace the fan blade.
Less Common
05 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Condenser Fan Motor
The condenser fan motor has bearings that can wear out over time. When the bearings are worn out, they make loud noise. To check the bearings, try rotating the condenser fan motor by hand. If the motor does not turn smoothly, replace it.
Less Common
06 - Kenmore Central Air Conditioner Contactor
The furnace control board sends a low voltage signal to the contactor. When the contactor receives the signal from the control board, it closes the circuit, sending voltage to the condensing unit components. If the contactor is defective, it will not provide voltage to the condensing unit. In addition, the contactor will make noise when it is defective. If the condensing unit is making noise but not cooling, the contactor has probably failed. To determine if the contactor is at fault, use a multimeter to test the contactor for continuity. If the contactor does not have continuity, replace it.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Kenmore central AC making a loud noise?
What should I check if my condenser fan is making noise?
Why is my AC making a buzzing noise but not cooling?
How do I tell whether the condenser fan motor or fan blade is causing the loud noise?
How do I find the correct Kenmore central air conditioner fan motor or fan blade replacement part?
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