On Sun, 18 Jul 2010 20:03:34 -0400, wrote:

On Sun, 18 Jul 2010 19:36:59 -0400, "RBM" wrote:


"Molly Brown" wrote in message
...
On Jul 18, 12:03 pm, "AngryOldWhiteGuy"
wrote:
Hi - we have a typical home AC system - ours is a Ruud - the model number
on
the outside unit is UAKA- 037JAZ. It's been very hot here in Texas - over
100 all day long, but the system is working OK and cooling the house -
plenty of cool air coming out of all the vents - the AC runs a lot these
days, but it always has when it's very hot outside since we've lived
here -
I guess that's because it's an older unit (1996) and not as efficient as
some of the newer units. The filter has always been changed regularly.

For several months now, I'm hearing a loud buzzing noise from the outside
unit when it's running - the fan spins OK and there's hot air coming off
of
the unit - the noise is nothing that keeps us awake at night, but
certainly
noiser than my neighbor's units - they were replaced within the past few
years and they're newer.

Is this kind of noise typical of the older units?? If not, what am I
likely
to hear is the main problem from the AC repair guy if the unit goes out
and
I need to make a repair call?

I had something on the outside unity replaced a few years ago - I think it
was the start capacitor.

Thanks!

When was the last time anyone lubricated your condenser fan motor?

It's not the fan motor. Even if it needed lubrication, it woudln't
make the noise he dscribes.

Probably when it was built, and sealed at the factory

Last time mine buzzed I just tightened the loose screws on the housing
and everything was quiet again. That was about 10 years ago - the AC
is about 35 years old.

A very good idea. And something one with little experience can try
first. He can put his hand on the panels and see if any is vibrating.

If not that, it's the contactor and I thind Dufas has some good ideas.
Keep that up, Dufas, and you'll lose your right to your name.