The noise from multiple air source heat pumps (ASHPs) in crowded residential areas is similar to the noise from one ASHP in a neighbour’s garden.
That’s according to a new study by Apex Acoustics, commissioned by Nesta, which examined the potential noise impact of ASHPs in crowded residential areas.
The study used models for terraced and semi-detached houses, assuming ASHPs run at the loudest level allowed by the MCS 020 standard (42 dB).
The study used worst-case scenarios, like maximum housing density, all ASHPs running at full power and installation on hard surfaces, to test the highest possible noise levels, likely higher than in real life.
The study found that noise level stays below the point where negative effects start to rise, suggesting little impact on the public.
The noise increase ranges from 2-8 dB, highest in gardens without fences.
Placing heat pumps next to fences can reduce noise by 1-3 dB.
While the combined noise might raise background noise, especially in quiet areas, it stays similar to normal urban nighttime noise.
The study notes that the noise from the nearest ASHP is more noticeable than the combined noise from all units.
