The truth about heat pump noise
If you’re curious to learn how a heat pump produces noise and how much noise it produces, read on.
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How loud is an air source heat pump?
Most people are genuinely surprised by how quiet an air source heat pump is.
Just like any working machine, an air source heat pump does make some noise. However, the amount of noise it produces is surprisingly low, especially with newer models designed to operate quietly.
The noise is so low, in fact, that it’s about the same as a whisper, the gentle hush of a library, or the sound of a breeze through leaves.
Your heat pump will be no loder than 42dB. This isn’t loud at all. For example, the refrigerator in your kitchen usually produces the same level of sound.
For context, the volume of a gas boiler ranges between 30-60dB. If you’re happy with how loud your gas boiler is, you won’t even notice the sound of your new air source heat pump. Your neighbors won’t notice it either, which is great for everyone!
How does heat pump noise compare to a boiler?
Generally, heat pumps produce a sound level that is significantly lower than most boilers.
The element that produces noise in an ASHP is the fan that’s used to draw air over a refrigerant element. This fan works at different speeds based on your home’s heating needs. Keep in mind, it doesn’t run all the time.
Your gas boiler only runs when you use it, and thousands of homes up and down the country live with boiler noise without complaint. An air source heat pump is just as quiet, if not quieter than your gas boiler when it is working!
The heat pump models we use are pretty quiet when running in Standard Sound Mode. They sound like distant birds chirping or the soft hush of a library. This is significantly quieter, for example than a cooker extraction hood on a low setting.
One of our trusted manufacturers, Ideal, has had their Logic Air models officially rated among the quietest in the UK by industry-standard certification company Quiet Mark.
So, the only noise that you’ll get inside your home is, usually, the noise of radiators heating up – which is no different from what you’ve likely become used to with a gas boiler. This is likely to be much less frequent (or non-existent) because your radiators will stay at a constant temperature rather than the constant cycling you tend to get with gas boilers.
How noisy are air source heat pumps?
Watch the video below where Jamie Ansell, our head of training shows you just how quiet an air source heat pump is.
As part of our bespoke system design service, we choose the model that gives you the best results. We also consider noise levels, so you can stay warm without disturbance.
The models we use operate at a low sound level in Standard Sound Mode, similar to the gentle chirping of birds in the distance or the soft quiet of a library. This is significantly quieter, for example than a cooker extraction hood on a low setting.
One of our trusted manufacturers, Ideal, makes the Logic Air models. These models are rated as some of the quietest in the UK. This rating comes from the industry-standard certification company Quiet Mark.
So, the only noise that you’ll get inside your home is, usually, the noise of radiators heating up – which is no different from what you’ve likely become used to with a gas boiler.
This is likely to be much less frequent (or non-existent) because your radiators will stay at a constant temperature rather than the constant cycling you tend to get with gas boilers.
Can neighbours hear your heat pump?
No one wants to disturb their neighbours so it’s important to consider how your new air source heat pump may affect those living around you. Before your installation has taken place, a noise assessment is carried out.
Is a heat pump louder in the winter?
Your heat pump runs at the highest volume is when it needs to work harder to extract heat from the outside air. This is almost always in the depths of winter when you and your neighbours aren’t often outside anyway!
Understanding air source heat pump noise levels
An air source heat pump operates at about 35 to 50 decibels similar to a quiet room or library. Traditional boilers can reach noise levels of 60 decibels or more, especially during their ignition and operation phases.
Factors affecting noise production
Most homeowners will have their external heat pump unit installed at the side or back of their home. We also only install heat pumps on the ground and not at height. This means it takes up less space and reduces the amount of pipework needed. Importantly it also avoids unnecessary heat loss.
Regular servicing and maintenance will help keep your heat pump in tip top condition. We recommend having your heat pump serviced every year in the same way that you would have your old boiler serviced.
Regulatory guidelines and noise limits
When considering the installation of an air source heat pump (ASHP), it is crucial to think about its placement to minimise any potential disturbance to your neighbours, in accordance with UK legislation.
This measures the noise level of the heat pump from your neighbour’s property to ensure that it is no louder than the UK legal limit of 42dB.
Minimising heat pump noise
The main way to mitigate heat pump noise, in much the same way as a gas boiler, is to run it efficiently once the heat pump has been installed. Most people find that it operates so quietly that they generally forget the heat pump is even there.
We’ll advise you (as part of the system design) on a good installation location to minimise noise from the outdoor unit. Our installers will also leave you with the best set up system with efficient settings that stop frequent heat pump cycling. An efficient, consistent system design helps the heat pump unit not work as hard when heating your home.
Are there any noise regulations during a heat pump installation?
Usually, no heavy machinery needs to be used for a heat pump installation other than, occasionally, a powered masonry drill to run the pipework into your home. The outdoor unit is usually installed within a day or two with the rest of the project taking place inside your home.
However, there certainly are regulations for how loud a heat pump can be after it’s been installed. Every one of our installations has a detailed noise assessment carried out and certified with MCS.
Our bespoke system report explains everything
Before any installations even begin, you’ll have had plenty of detailed conversations with our team and will have seen all the plans.
Our system designers provide clear and detailed guidance on every aspect of the installation. As part of the report, you will also receive a copy of the noise level assessment approved by MCS.
In conclusion
Your heat pump should make no more noise than your traditional gas boiler. In fact, it should be much quieter. We will design you a heat pump system that is in the best location not only for you, but to minimise any disruption to your neighbours.
If you have any questions at all, please talk to a member of our team who can help.
Frequently asked questions
Do air source heat pumps make noise continuously?
Yes. However, the sound levels produced are low.
Can noise from a heat pump disturb sleep?
A well designed and installed heat pump system should cause no disturbance for homeowners.
Are there any noise reduction products for heat pumps?
To keep noise from your heat pump low, make sure it gets regular service and is free of obstructions.