Heat pumps are an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient solution that provides heat and reduces bills. Unfortunately, despite their many advantages, installing a heat pump comes with one serious challenge: noise. A heat pump that is too loud can disturb the peace in your garden or on your terrace, and even lead to conflicts with your neighbours.
If you are also affected by this problem and are wondering how to silence your heat pump, this article is for you. In it, we will present various methods of noise reduction and discuss the effectiveness of acoustic heat pump enclosures – a modern solution that will ensure peace and quiet and an aesthetic appearance of your surroundings.
Where does the noise come from? Understanding the causes of a noisy heat pump
Before we discuss how to effectively soundproof a heat pump, it is worth understanding what causes its noise. There may be several reasons:
- Fan: this is the main component responsible for generating noise, especially during intensive operation.
- Compressor: generates low-frequency noise, perceived as humming and vibration.
- Structural vibration: improper installation can cause vibrations that are transmitted to the building or ground.
- Refrigerant flow: slight noises can also come from the refrigerant circulation in the system.
Identifying the exact source of the noise is key to choosing an effective solution. Remember that in the case of installation problems (e.g. vibrations), it may be necessary to first adjust the ground or correct the installation before applying solutions to silence the device itself.
Various methods of silencing heat pumps – why are they often insufficient?
Before we move on to active silencing methods, it is worth remembering the basic factors that affect heat pump noise. Correct installation on a stable surface, away from bedroom windows or neighbours, is an absolute must. Regular servicing and maintenance are equally important – a well-maintained pump runs more quietly. However, even these key measures only minimise noise to a certain extent and are rarely sufficient on their own to achieve a satisfactory level of quietness.
Various methods are also available to directly reduce noise, but their effectiveness is limited. They often do not guarantee complete silence or solve all aesthetic or legal problems. What is more, some of them, instead of silencing, can even cause a resonance box effect, amplifying the noise generated by the device. Such makeshift solutions often turn out to be a waste of time and money spent on finding and installing them, as they do not produce the expected results.
Here are some of the most popular methods used to reduce heat pump noise:
- Vibration damping (shock absorbers): reducing vibrations transmitted to the ground is crucial. The use of special anti-vibration pads under the pump can minimise structural noise. However, this is only a partial solution, as it does not affect fan noise or compressor operation.
- Acoustic screens: Building sound barriers (e.g. acoustic panels or walls) around the pump can partially block the propagation of noise. Their effectiveness depends on many factors (height, material, distance) and is often insufficient, as sound propagates freely over or around the screen. Such screens also rarely provide the desired aesthetics.
- Vegetation: dense hedges or shrubs planted around the pump can disperse sound to some extent. However, their ability to effectively suppress noise is very limited. They serve a visual rather than an acoustic function.
- Internal soundproofing (acoustic mats): some people try to soundproof the heat pump from the inside, e.g. by installing acoustic mats on the housing components of the device. However, this is an invasive method, which often involves the risk of losing the warranty on the device and requires specialist knowledge.
In view of these limitations, for those seeking a comprehensive and durable solution that will effectively silence the heat pump, improve the aesthetics of the surroundings, and at the same time not void the heat pump warranty, the above methods prove insufficient. Acoustic heat pump enclosures are the answer to these needs.
The s|HP| acoustic enclosure – an aesthetic solution to the problem of noisy heat pumps
In response to the limitations of traditional methods, which do not provide sufficient noise reduction or aesthetics, acoustic enclosures for heat pumps are becoming an increasingly popular solution. They are currently considered the most effective method of reducing the noise generated by these devices.
These structures are designed to effectively eliminate noise through the use of specialised sound-absorbing and sound-insulating materials. They also serve a protective function, shielding the pump from adverse weather conditions and mechanical damage, while significantly improving the aesthetics of the surroundings. However, it should be remembered that not all enclosures available on the market are equal. Many of them are simply ‘metal boxes’ which, instead of silencing noise, can actually amplify it, causing an undesirable resonance effect.
Why is the s|HP| acoustic enclosure the best choice?
The s|HP| acoustic enclosure is our proprietary solution that sets new standards in soundproofing and aesthetics. It combines advanced acoustic engineering with attention to every visual and functional detail. The s|HP| enclosure is not only an effective noise barrier, but also an element that will blend harmoniously into your home environment without affecting the heat pump manufacturer’s warranty.
Unlike makeshift structures and amateur solutions, s|HP| enclosures are technologically advanced products designed by engineers and doctors of acoustics – specialists in their field. This ensures that you receive a solution that:
- Effectively reduces noise: laboratory tests confirm an impressive noise reduction of up to 14 dB!
- No negative impact on pump performance: the s|HP| enclosure does not restrict air flow, preventing the device from overheating. Your heat pump will continue to operate properly.
- Durable protection against weather conditions and damage: made of high-quality galvanised, powder-coated rough sheet metal, the acoustic enclosure is extremely durable and resistant to rust and harsh weather conditions. Its solid construction guarantees reliability for years to come.
- Improves the aesthetics of the surroundings: no more unsightly, exposed heat pumps! Our heat pump acoustic enclosure is an element that integrates perfectly with the space around your home. We also offer customisation options, including colour changes, allowing you to match the enclosure to the building’s façade, garden architecture or other elements. It is an effective way to discreetly hide the device.
- It is easy to install: the design of the acoustic enclosure has been developed with maximum ease of installation in mind. All you need to assemble it is a screwdriver.
- It ensures compliance with legal standards: many countries have increasingly strict regulations on noise levels. Our enclosures are designed to help you meet these requirements, ensuring peace of mind and compliance with local regulations.
How to choose an acoustic enclosure for your heat pump?
Now that you know what makes s|HP| enclosures stand out, it’s time to consider which one will be ideal for your heat pump. Silencions offers both standard and customised solutions.
When to choose a standard size s|HP| enclosure?
Silencions offers standard-sized acoustic enclosures for heat pumps, ideal for most devices. They are a good solution if:
- Your heat pump has typical dimensions and a standard installation.
- The installation space is sufficient and does not require modification.
When is it worth choosing a customised enclosure?
However, if your situation is more specific, we recommend a customised enclosure. It will be the best choice when:
- The heat pump has non-standard dimensions: the device is wider, taller or deeper than standard models.
- There is unusual cable routing or the installation requires cables or pipes to be covered in a way that prevents the use of a standard enclosure.
- You have specific aesthetic or technical requirements and want the enclosure to fit perfectly into the environment, be a specific colour or have additional, non-standard functionality.
With a customised s|HP| acoustic enclosure, you can be sure of a precise fit, effective noise reduction and a modern look, regardless of the technical challenges you face. Your heat pump will run quietly and efficiently.
The process of creating a customised s|HP| casing for a heat pump
Verification of dimensions and creation of a conceptual drawing
We begin by carefully measuring the heat pump and the surrounding space. We take into account all elements of the installation, such as unusually routed pipes or installation space limitations.
Modelling the pump installation environment
After creating the drawing, we model the assembly environment in 3D and reproduce the actual conditions
in which the enclosure will be located. This allows us to detect any collisions and ensure the full functionality of the enclosure.
Modification of existing s|HP| housing components
Next, we adjust the housing components to the dimensions and specific characteristics of the device. We also take into account adequate air circulation, which allows the device to operate efficiently.
Adding new s|HP| housing elements
Finally, we introduce the components necessary for non-standard installations. These components ensure that the custom-made enclosure is able to meet any challenge.
Enjoy peace and quiet and the aesthetic appearance of your heat pump thanks to the acoustic enclosure
The annoying noise of heat pumps is now a thing of the past. Forget about conflicts with neighbours and unsightly views. Choose a solution that combines the expertise of acousticians with the highest quality workmanship and attention to every detail.
Provide yourself and your family with well-deserved comfort. Don’t let noise disturb your peace – check out our range of s|HP| acoustic enclosures and enjoy the silence today!
Silence the heat pump
Need more information? Do you have questions about installing our heat pump enclosures? We are at your disposal!
We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide support at every stage of your project.
We are available on working days from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it difficult to install the s|HP| acoustic enclosure?
No, it is very simple. All you need is a screwdriver and the enclosed instructions.
How much noise will the s|HP| enclosure actually reduce?
Laboratory tests confirm noise reduction of up to 14 dB. This is a significant difference, noticeable as a considerable reduction in volume (by more than half). As a result, the noise is no longer a nuisance.
Is the s|HP| enclosure weather-resistant?
Yes. It is made of galvanised, powder-coated sheet metal, which guarantees durability and rust resistance for many years.
Does the s|HP| enclosure fit every heat pump?
Our enclosures are available in standard sizes to fit most heat pump models. For non-standard dimensions, we create customised enclosures that fit perfectly.
What about condensate drainage from the heat pump in the s|HP| enclosure?
The well-thought-out design of the drip trays ensures proper condensate drainage, so that condensate does not accumulate and adversely affect the pump or aesthetics.