- Modern heat pumps operate quietly, with outdoor units making noise similar to a refrigerator.
- Air source heat pumps produce a low, consistent hum and can be further quieted with proper installation.
- They are efficient, environmentally friendly, and a great choice for sustainable home heating.
Heat pumps are the future, but will the future be loud?
Modern heat pumps offer a quiet and efficient way to heat homes. Concerns about noise are common, but today’s heat pumps are designed to operate quietly. The outdoor unit, which houses the compressor and fan, produces sound levels similar to a refrigerator. This noise is often much lower than traditional boilers or air conditioning units.
Air source heat pumps, installed outside homes, create a low hum—typically between 40 and 60 decibels. That’s about the same noise level as a fridge or dishwasher. These units generally run continuously during the winter.
Proper installation can further reduce any noise. Homeowners can ensure minimal disturbance by placing the unit away from windows and using vibration isolation mounts. The indoor units that distribute the heat are usually very quiet.
Despite negative media to the contrary, a heat pump emits as much noise as a standard household appliance. What’s another fridge noise when you’re saving the world?
