Renu Heating

How Noisy Are Air Source Heat Pumps? | Leicester & Leicestershire

Concerned about heat pump noise? Learn how loud air source heat pumps really are, UK planning rules, and how to minimise sound in Leicester & Leicestershire homes.

Do Heat Pumps Make a Lot of Noise?

A common question from homeowners in Leicester and across Leicestershire is: “Will my air source heat pump be noisy?”

The short answer: modern heat pumps are quiet, often no louder than a fridge or a library conversation. Noise is measured in decibels (dB), and most UK approved ASHPs produce around 40–60 dB at 1 metre.

For context:
– A fridge hums at ~40 dB
– Normal conversation is ~60 dB
– A vacuum cleaner is ~75 dB

So, while you’ll hear a gentle hum when the system runs, it’s unlikely to disturb you or your neighbours.

UK Noise & Planning Rules

In the UK, outdoor ASHP units must comply with planning and noise regulations.

– Permitted Development: Most homes can install a heat pump without planning permission if it meets MCS acoustic standards.
– Noise Limits: Typically, sound should not exceed 42 dB at the nearest neighbour’s window.
– Listed/Heritage Sites: May require special planning consideration.

Your installer will perform a noise assessment to make sure the system complies.

What Affects Heat Pump Noise?

1. Unit Quality – Premium brands (e.g., Mitsubishi, Daikin) design ultra-quiet fans and compressors.
2. Installation Location – Placing the unit near a fence, wall, or planting shrubs can reduce sound impact.
3. Operation Mode – Heat pumps may run slightly louder during defrost cycles in cold weather, but this is temporary.
4. Maintenance – Keeping the fan blades clean and free of debris ensures quieter operation.

Real-World Example in Leicestershire

A family in Oadby installed a 14kW heat pump in their semi-detached home. Their noise assessment measured 39 dB at their neighbour’s boundary quieter than birdsong. Inside the house, the system was virtually inaudible.

Similarly, a converted barn in Market Harborough saw only a low background hum during winter evenings.

📌 Note: These are illustrative local examples based on published noise performance data from manufacturers and MCS acoustic standards. For real-world studies, see:
– Energy Saving Trust field trials on heat pump performance (2013)
– MCS acoustic guidance (https://mcscertified.com/)

Tips for a Quieter Heat Pump

– Choose a certified low-noise model (look for “Quiet Mark” approval).
– Install the unit away from bedrooms or windows.
– Use acoustic fencing if your garden is small.
– Schedule servicing to keep fans running smoothly.

– Air source heat pump noise Leicester
– How noisy are heat pumps UK
– Quiet heat pump installation Leicestershire
– Heat pump decibel levels
– https://renuheating.co.uk/

References & Further Reading

1. https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/air-source-heat-pumps/
2. https://mcscertified.com/
3. https://ecodan.co.uk/
4. https://www.planningportal.co.uk/
5. https://renuheating.co.uk/

Coming Next Week

Air Source Heat Pump Maintenance: What You Need to Know
We’ll explore routine servicing, efficiency checks, and how to keep your system running smoothly in Leicestershire.