One of the most common concerns for homeowners considering a new heating system is whether it will make a lot of noise. It is well-known that traditional heating and cooling units can be noisy, with clanging pipes, humming fans, or disruptive vibrations. 

However, since air source heat pumps (ASHPs) have previously been a less common choice for heating UK homes, many homeowners are unsure exactly what heat pump noise levels are like. 

The good news is that modern ASHPs, particularly Adlår’s dual heat pump system, are designed to operate at whisper-quiet levels. 

This article explores what you should know about heat pump noise levels, why noise levels matter, and why Adlår’s innovative ASHP systems are an excellent choice for quiet, comfortable home heating.

What to Know About Heat Pump Noise Levels

Like any appliance, heat pumps produce some noise while operating. However, ASHP systems are generally quieter than traditional heating systems like boilers or HVAC units. 

Noise levels for heat pumps are typically measured in decibels (dB), which gauge the intensity of sound. 

While there are detailed decibel scales that provide exhaustive examples, here’s a quick overview of the type of noise you would hear at common decibel levels:

• 30 dB – Whispering or a quiet library
• 40 dB – Quiet conversation at home or mild snoring
• 50 – 60 dB – Moderate rainfall or a normal conversation
• 70 dB+ – Loud television or a vacuum cleaner operating

Most modern air source heat pumps operate in the range of 40 – 60 dB, which is comparable to low-level ambient noise from a home appliance like a dishwasher or microwave. 

It is worth noting, though, that factors like outdoor temperature, system size, and quality of installation can also impact air source heat pump noise levels. You can read more about this here.

Why Are People Concerned About Heat Pump Noise?

For many, noise is a major factor when choosing a heating and cooling system, particularly for outdoor units. Common concerns about heat pump noise levels include:

1. Disruption to Daily Life. Homeowners worry that loud outdoor units might disrupt the peace of their everyday lives, especially at night or if they are installed close to windows/bedrooms.
2. Impact on Neighbours. For homes with close neighbours – such as urban flats or terraced houses – noise can adversely affect surrounding properties, making quiet heat pump operation a priority. For this reason, the MCS standards body set noise limits that require an outdoor heat pump unit within one metre of a neighbour’s door or window to be no louder than 42 decibels. Additionally, the EU Commission Regulation’s No 813/2013 standard states that heat pumps can only produce a maximum noise of 40 decibels between 7pm and 7am.
3. Misconceptions About Heat Pumps. Some people associate heat pumps with the loud noises of older HVAC systems, not realising how much modern heat pump technology has improved.

Fortunately, thanks to ongoing advancements in technology, modern ASHP systems are quieter than many people expect, with the likes of Adlår’s dual heat pump system specifically engineered for minimal noise.

How Adlår’s Dual Heat Pumps Achieve Whisper-Quiet Operation

At Adlår, we understand that comfort isn’t just about the temperature of your home – it’s also about maintaining as peaceful, quiet an environment as possible. 

Here’s how our ASHP systems are designed to achieve whisper-quiet operation:

1. Advanced Compressor Technology. The compressor is often the loudest part of a heat pump. Adlår uses advanced, high-quality compressors designed to minimise operational noise without sacrificing performance. These operate smoothly, instead of making the clunky, repetitive sounds often heard in traditional heating units.
2. Sound-Reducing Components. Our ASHP units are built with specialised sound-dampening materials that absorb and insulate noise. If the outdoor unit is installed on the ground, we place the heat pump on specially designed feet that dampen noise, whereas for those installed on a roof or wall mount, we use anti-vibration shock absorbers. These components reduce the sound produced by vibrations or airflow, keeping heat pump noise levels quiet even during peak operation.
3. Variable Speed Motors. Adlår’s dual heat pump systems feature variable speed motors, which adjust the unit’s performance based on your current heating or cooling needs. By operating at lower speeds whenever possible, our ASHP systems produce less noise while maintaining optimal energy efficiency.
4. Intelligent Fan Design. Fans play a vital role in circulating air, but traditional ones often make loud, whirring sounds that can disturb your peace. In contrast, Adlår’s heat pumps use precision-engineered, low-noise fans, which are designed to move air efficiently and quietly.
5. Strategic Placement Options. During installation, Adlår’s qualified engineers work with homeowners to position the outdoor ASHP unit so that it complies with regulations and delivers optimal quietness. We consider the layout of your property to find the most suitable spot for minimal sound impact on both your home and any nearby properties.

What You Can Expect from Adlår’s Heat Pump Noise Levels

Adlår’s ASHP systems typically operate at 22 – 50 dB, depending on the power of the unit and whether it is placed in an open space or near a wall. 

Our ultimate goal is to minimise heat pump noise levels and install a whisper-quiet system in your home. In practical terms, this means: 

• Indoor Peace – Even with the ASHP running, most homeowners won’t notice any noise indoors, especially if the unit is installed in a strategic outdoor location.
• Uninterrupted Sleep – Adlår’s dual heat pumps won’t disrupt your sleep or relaxation, even at night when the home is at its quietest.
• Consideration for Neighbours – Adlår’s ASHP systems are also designed to minimise noise for nearby properties, so you can enjoy energy-efficient heating without worrying about disturbing others.

For those who may be sensitive to noise, Adlår’s team can provide additional guidance on heat pump noise reduction and optimal installation practices, ensuring a seamless integration into your home environment.

Practical Tips for Reducing Heat Pump Noise Even Further

While Adlår’s ASHP systems are already engineered for quiet operation, a few additional steps can help minimise heat pump noise levels:

1. Choose the Right Location for Installation. Place the outdoor unit away from bedroom windows, shared walls, or any surfaces that can cause sound reflections. Ideally, the outdoor unit should be as far away from your house (and your neighbours’ houses) as is possible without affecting the heat pump’s efficiency. 
2. Regular Maintenance. Keep the unit running quietly with routine maintenance, such as cleaning the fan and ensuring parts are lubricated. This helps prevent any sounds caused by wear and tear.
3. Consider Soundproofing Options. If your property layout makes it challenging to find an ideal spot to reduce heat pump noise levels, shielding the unit with noise barriers – for example, sound-dampening fencing or landscaped vegetation – can further reduce noise transmission – just make sure these barriers do not prevent airflow to the unit.

Enjoy Peaceful, Efficient Heating with Adlår’s ASHP Systems

With Adlår’s ASHP systems, you don’t have to choose between quiet comfort and energy efficiency. Our heat pumps are designed with advanced sound-reduction technology, making them an excellent choice for homeowners looking to upgrade their heating without adding noise. 

From quiet compressors to carefully engineered fan systems, every aspect of our dual heat pump system is designed with market-leading technology that offers powerful heating and cooling while also keeping heat pump noise levels as low as possible. 

Contact Adlår today for a free consultation and learn more about how our whisper-quiet ASHP systems can bring efficient home heating and year-round comfort to your home.