Reducing heat pump noise
A quiet heat pump is not only comfortable but also necessary to meet legal sound standards. By using sound-absorbing materials or a special casing, you can prevent noise nuisance for yourself and your surroundings. Discover how you can easily and effectively reduce heat pump noise.
Heat pumps have now become a familiar feature in many homes and buildings. More than 700,000 locations in the Netherlands are already using this energy-efficient method of heating. A heat pump helps in making a property more sustainable and contributes to lower energy costs. The use of a heat pump also comes with a certain noise level, averaging about 55 dB at full capacity. This is comparable to the sound of a bean coffee maker. Since this noise is often continuously present, it can be audible in the surroundings – both for yourself and for neighbours.
Moreover, there are legal noise standards for outdoor units of heat pumps: a maximum of 45 dB during the day and 40 dB at night. Therefore, it may be worthwhile to reduce the noise of the heat pump, for example with sound-absorbing material.
What causes the sound of a heat pump?
The sound is mainly produced by air displacement. The fan in the outdoor unit ensures air circulation, which creates sound waves. These waves then bounce off hard surfaces such as walls or fences. This results in additional sound pressure and an amplifying effect.
Noise pollution is therefore caused not only by the pump itself but also by the acoustics of the environment.
Solutions to reduce the noise of a heat pump
There are several ways to reduce the noise of a heat pump. Here are the two most commonly used solutions:
Installing sound-absorbing material on surrounding walls
By attaching acoustic material to, for example, a fence or facade, sound waves are absorbed rather than reflected. As a result, the sound is less loud and the disturbance noticeably decreases. This solution is easy to apply and can be effectively combined with, for instance, planting.Building a casing for the heat pump
A second, more effective method is to install a sound-insulating casing around the outdoor unit. The inside of the casing is equipped with sound-absorbing material, which significantly reduces the emitted noise level. However, ensure that the casing provides adequate ventilation, otherwise the operation of the heat pump may be compromised.
Both solutions have their pros and cons. A casing often provides the best results but requires careful design and possibly consultation with the manufacturer or installer of the heat pump. Applying acoustic material to existing walls is simpler and in many cases sufficient to reduce the noise of the heat pump.
What material is suitable for outdoor applications?
Not every sound-absorbing material is suitable for outdoor use. It is important that the material is resistant to moisture, rain, and UV rays. This prevents the material from degrading, moulding, or losing its effectiveness.
A suitable material for reducing heat pump noise is, for example, EASYwhisper. This material is water-repellent, UV-resistant, and has excellent sound-absorbing properties. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for outdoor applications, such as on a wall or in a casing.
Conclusion
Reducing the noise from a heat pump is not only pleasant for yourself but also important in light of legal regulations and the environment of others. By applying smart solutions, such as sound-absorbing materials or an enclosure, you can effectively limit noise pollution.
