Tinnitus, Deafness and Ear Problems Support Group

This group is for those coping with Tinnitus (ringing ears or ear noise), hearing loss, and all ear issues. Join to find support and get advice from others.

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aprilb42 05/03/2010

I am currently living in an apartment complex and instead of having central air we have wall units instead. My air conditioner is at least 10 years old and I find it noisy. The thing I am concerned about is whether or not it is at a noise level that can cause hearing damage as I don't want to expose myself to anything that can damage my hearing. I do have hyperacusis in addition ti Tinnitus, so I am more sensitive to louder sounds than most. Is it possible that an air conditioner could be loud enough to do any permanent damage to my hearing. I hope not as I have to run it sometimes as it gets to hot and the apartment complex has no intention of replacing it unless it breaks.

Thanks,

April

deleted_user 05/03/2010

From my research I have found that the common sound level of an air conditioner unit is usually about 60 Decibels at a distance of 20+ feet. It's possible that if you have an older A/C that it could be louder, but unless the Decibels exceed 80 it shouldn't cause any permanent damage, unless you are constantly exposed to it.

Newer model A/C units usually run much quieter, so if you are really concerned with additional damage being caused by this device, my advice would be to buy a new one, or you can purchase a Decibel Reader online for about $30.00 and check the level of your current unit.

-11.7.4

deleted_user 05/03/2010

I would complain the complex to replace it. My air conditioner seems to agrivate my T. I ordered some cordless headphones online and hope I can use them to watch tv. I think they will also muffle some of the air conditioner noise. I guess maybe you could try some ear plugs, or noise cancelling headphones, if they won't replace your air conditioner. In this tough economy a lot of apartment complexes are having a tough time finding steady renters. Threaten to move if they don't replace it.

deleted_user 05/03/2010

On a lighter note, you got me thinking about the air conditioner in my apartment. I never really gave the thing much thought. I just discovered the thing has a filter in it. I've lived in my apartment for 5 years a never cleaned it. Wow that thing was black, I don't know how air even made it into my apartment.

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