Are Heat Pumps Noisy?

When considering a heat pump for your home, you might wonder just how noisy it could be. Fortunately, both air source and ground source heat pumps are typically quieter than most gas boilers. The actual noise level can vary depending on the model and size of the heat pump, but in general, most are surprisingly quiet and cause minimal disruption.

So How Noisy Is an Air Source Heat Pump?

If you’re looking into installing an air source heat pump, noise is a natural concern.

In the UK, a legal noise limit of 42 decibels (dB) applies to heat pumps, measured from the nearest property boundary.

To give you a little more context, we’ve compared the noise levels of heat pumps to some other household sounds so you can get a sense of what to expect.

Here’s a quick comparison of other household sounds to give you a clearer idea:

In summary, 42 dB is similar to the soft hum of a refrigerator or a laptop running. You’re likely to barely notice the sound, and it’s unlikely to disturb anyone nearby.

Will a Heat Pump disturb your Neighbours?

When installed correctly, heat pumps shouldn’t pose any issues for neighbours in terms of noise. At the legal noise limit of 42 dB at the property boundary, the sound will blend into the environment.

If you’re mindful of placement and use one of our experienced installers, you’ll be able to install a unit that balances effective heating with minimal noise, keeping everyone happy.

Are Heat Pumps Louder Than Air Conditioners?

When comparing heat pumps to air conditioning units, you’ll find that noise levels are often similar. However, the exact volume will depend on the specific models and power ratings.

Is there a difference between Air Source and Ground Source Heat Pumps when it comes to noise?

In general, ground source heat pumps tend to be quieter than air source models. This is because they don’t require an outdoor fan, which helps reduce noise. However, noise levels will also depend on the specific unit size and model.

 Can a Heat Pump Run All Night Without Disrupting Sleep?

Heat pumps are designed to operate continuously without any issues, so leaving one on overnight is perfectly fine. In fact, many manufacturers recommend running your heat pump consistently to maintain a stable temperature, as it’s more efficient and cost-effective than turning it on and off. Setting your heat pump to a lower temperature at night can help keep your home warm without any loud operation sounds.

Is There a Way to Make a Heat Pump Quieter

If your heat pump seems noisier than usual, it’s a good idea to have an engineer inspect it. Most heat pumps operate quietly, so sudden changes in noise may indicate a need for maintenance. Additionally, if needed, you can install dampeners to reduce vibration. These are usually placed under the unit’s feet or around the compressor bolts, helping to keep operation smooth and quiet.

Will a Heat Pump be Louder During Winter Months?

During colder months, a heat pump may sound a bit louder due to the increased work required to extract and circulate warmth. However, this is normal and not usually disruptive. If you notice a significant change in noise, it’s wise to have the system inspected just in case.

Are New Heat Pumps Quieter?

Today’s heat pumps are generally quieter than earlier models. Advances in technology have made modern heat pumps quieter and more efficient. If you’ve heard complaints about noisy heat pumps, they likely involve older units. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect heat pumps to keep getting quieter, making them an increasingly noise-friendly option for home heating.

Summary

To summarise, noise levels should not be a reason to avoid installing a heat pump into your home. They are generally quieter than people expect them to be and no louder than other household appliances you already have.

If you are thinking of installing a heat pump or concerned about the noise of an existing unit, contact us today and one of our expert installers will be in touch.