How do you soundproof an air source heat pump?

Soundproofing an air source heat pump is an important measure for reducing disruptive noise and creating a quieter and more harmonious living environment. Air source heat pumps are efficient heating systems, but their fans and compressors can generate noise that can be perceived as stressful, especially in quiet areas or when the pump is located close to living spaces. By using the right soundproofing measures, you can reduce the noise level and improve both your own and your neighbors' comfort.

Air source heat pumps generate two main types of noise: airborne noise and structure-borne noise. Airborne noise is transmitted through the air and can be perceived as a constant humming or buzzing from the pump's fan and compressor. Structure-borne noise, on the other hand, is transmitted through walls and mounting brackets and can be amplified if the pump is incorrectly installed. To effectively soundproof an air source heat pump, a combination of sound-absorbing materials, vibration-damping solutions, and proper placement is required.

One of the most effective methods of reducing noise from an air source heat pump is to install a sound-absorbing screen around the outdoor unit. These screens are designed to absorb and reflect sound waves, reducing the noise level transmitted to the surrounding area. SilentDirect offers custom-designed sound-insulating screens with high sound absorption, making them an effective and discreet option for reducing noise.

Vibration damping is another crucial factor in reducing sound transmission. By mounting the air source heat pump on vibration-damping brackets or rubber pads, you can prevent vibrations from propagating through the structure of the building. This is especially important if the pump is mounted on a wall, as the vibrations can create a resonance sound that amplifies the noise indoors. Using SilentDirect's vibration-damping mounts can be an effective solution for minimizing this type of noise problem.

Another method of reducing noise from the air source heat pump is to place it in a strategically chosen location. By avoiding placement near bedroom windows or other sensitive areas, you can reduce the risk of the sound being perceived as disturbing. In addition, the air source heat pump should be placed on a stable surface, such as a concrete slab or vibration-damping foundation, to minimize sound transmission through the ground.

To dampen airborne noise, sound-absorbing materials can also be used directly on or around the air source heat pump's casing. Acoustic panels or sound-insulating mats can help absorb sound waves and prevent them from spreading further. SilentDirect's sound-absorbing materials are specially developed to withstand outdoor environments and can be easily applied to suitable surfaces to maximize sound attenuation.

In summary, there are several effective methods for soundproofing an air source heat pump. By using sound-absorbing screens, vibration-damping mounts, proper placement, and sound-absorbing materials, you can significantly reduce noise and create a more pleasant sound environment. These measures not only contribute to increased comfort for residents, but also to a more harmonious neighborhood environment where noise disturbances are minimized.

Here are some advantages of soundproofing an air source heat pump

Reduces disturbing noise levels
Air source heat pumps generate noise when in operation, especially if they have fans and compressors. Soundproofing and soundproofing the unit can reduce disturbing noise levels, which is particularly important in residential areas or when the heat pump is installed near places where silence is desirable.

Improves living comfort
A quieter air source heat pump contributes to a more comfortable indoor environment. This is especially important if the heat pump is used in residential areas where people regularly spend time.

Reduces disturbing noise for neighbors
If the air source heat pump is installed near neighbors or in a densely populated area, sound insulation and sound attenuation can reduce the risk of disturbing noise spreading to the surrounding area, which can increase acceptance of the heat pump's presence.

Improves the working environment
If an air source heat pump is used in commercial or industrial environments, sound insulation can improve the working environment by reducing noise levels, which can be particularly important if the unit is installed near work areas.

Prevents sound vibrations
Some sound insulation techniques can also help prevent vibrations that can be transmitted from the heat pump to surrounding structures, which can reduce any disturbances or vibration effects.

Improves neighbor relations
Reduced noise from the air source heat pump can help improve relations with neighbors and reduce the risk of conflicts that may arise due to disruptive noise levels.

Improves overall product performance
Sound insulation and sound attenuation can help improve the overall performance of the heat pump by minimizing noise disturbances and vibration effects, which can lead to more efficient and reliable operation.

Option 1 – Soundproofing of air source heat pump with or without roof

In our experience, the most effective way to soundproof an air source heat pump is to surround it with a sound-insulating structure. Including a roof provides the best soundproofing, but even without a roof, the noise reduction can be significant.

1. SilentDirect Polaric damping mat orSilentDirect MLV
2. SilentDirect EggorSilentDirect Neo 
3. SilentDirect Neo

Step 1 – Build and soundproof the enclosure around your air source heat pump

Start by building a casing or protective housing around your air source heat pump. Whether this is to be attached to a wall or mounted on the ground, it is essential that the entire structure is covered with SilentDirect Neo before installation. This prevents direct contact between the casing and the wall or ground, which reduces vibration transmission and improves sound insulation.

Installation of SilentDirect Polaric damping mat or MLV
Once the enclosure is in place, its entire surface must be covered with SilentDirect Polaric damping mat or MLV (number 1). This step is crucial for effective sound absorption and damping.

Important! Seal all joints
To achieve the best possible sound dampening, all joints must be carefully sealed. Use a suitable sealing material, for example:

Sealing compound – To ensure airtightness and minimize sound leakage.

SilentDirect Seal sealing strip – We recommend a width of 25–50 mm and a thickness of 2 mm for optimal effect.

Fastening SilentDirect Polaric or MLV
Since SilentDirect Polaric soundproofing mat and MLV are heavy and flexible, proper fastening is required. You can use:

Staple gun – Quick and easy installation.

Screws – Provides stable and long-lasting fastening.

Mounting adhesive – Fastens and seals at the same time for extra durability.

Step 2 – Final sound insulation of walls, ceilings, and floors

Once SilentDirect Polaric or MLV has been installed, the next step is to cover the entire interior of the enclosure/housing with SilentDirect Egg (number 2). This includes all walls and the ceiling, which further improves sound absorption and reduces sound reflections inside the structure.

vibration dampingTo dampen vibrations that can spread through the ground, cover the entire inside of the floor with SilentDirect Neo (number 3). This material is specially designed to reduce vibrations and minimize sound transmission from the air source heat pump to the surrounding area.

Important! Cover wall and ground contact with SilentDirect Neo
If the casing/housing is to be mounted against a wall or on the ground, it is essential that these surfaces are covered with SilentDirect Neo before installation. This creates an insulating barrier that prevents the casing from coming into direct contact with other surfaces, further reducing vibrations and improving sound insulation.

Done! Enjoy the silence!
Once you have completed these steps, you now have a high-performance sound insulation solution for your air source heat pump, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable environment.

Option 2 – Budget solution for soundproofing with or without ceiling

A cost-effective method of soundproofing an air source heat pump is to use simple but effective materials and designs. Adding a roof provides better sound insulation, but even without a roof, the noise level can be significantly reduced.

1. SilentDirect Egg
2. SilentDirect Neo

Step 1 – Build and soundproof the enclosure

Start by building a casing or protective housing around your air source heat pump. Whether this is to be attached to a wall or mounted on the ground, it is important to cover the entire exterior of the structure with SilentDirect Neo before installation. This prevents direct contact with walls or the ground and minimizes vibration transfer.

Internal soundproofing

Walls and ceilings (inside)
Cover the entire interior with SilentDirect Egg (number 1) to absorb and reduce noise levels.

Floors (inside)
Cover completely with SilentDirect Neo (number 2), as this material effectively dampens vibrations from the heat pump.

Important! Prevent contact with walls or the ground
If the enclosure is to be mounted against a wall or on the ground, it is essential that these contact surfaces are also covered with SilentDirect Neo. This ensures that the enclosure does not touch any other surface, which significantly reduces vibrations and improves sound insulation.

Done! Enjoy the silence!
This method provides affordable yet effective sound insulation, creating a quieter and more pleasant environment.

Additional tips for reducing noise from an air source heat pump

Mount the air source heat pump on a stable, vibration-damping platform
To minimize vibrations and thus reduce the noise level, the air source heat pump should be placed on a stable platform. We recommend installing SilentDirect Neo under the plate on which the pump stands, as this material effectively dampens vibrations and prevents sound transmission to the ground.

Place the air source heat pump at an optimal distance
If possible, install the air source heat pump as far away as possible from areas where silence is important, such as bedrooms and living rooms. By strategically placing the unit, you reduce the risk of disturbing noise in the most frequently used areas of the home.

Perform regular maintenance and servicing
Noise problems can sometimes be caused by worn or loose components. Ensure that the air source heat pump is in good condition through regular servicing and maintenance. By cleaning filters, checking fans, and ensuring that all screws and fasteners are properly tightened, you can reduce unnecessary noise.

Understand that some noise is normal
Air source heat pumps naturally generate noise, especially during operation or in extreme temperature conditions. Soundproofing measures can significantly reduce noise, but it is rarely possible to eliminate it completely. However, a combination of strategic placement, vibration damping, and soundproofing provides the best possible noise reduction.

Did you know that..

Did you know that the sound from an air source heat pump can be amplified by the facade it is mounted on? If the heat pump is mounted directly against a wall without vibration damping, the sound can travel through the building's frame and be heard in other rooms – even far away from the unit itself. By using vibration-damping brackets, mounting the heat pump on a decoupled bracket, and placing it on a sound-absorbing surface, you can reduce both noise and resonance, resulting in a quieter and more comfortable indoor environment.

Products that are good for soundproofing and sound dampening an air source heat pump

SilentDirect Polaric damping mat
SilentDirect Polaric is a heavy damping mat made from a butyl blend with a durable aluminum surface. It is specially designed to dampen vibrations and reduce sound transmission. By applying this damping mat to the air source heat pump's casing or mounting brackets, you can reduce resonance and vibrations that can otherwise amplify noise. The denser and more carefully the material is applied, the better the sound damping will be. SilentDirect Polaric is an ideal solution for reducing noise from both the fan and compressor in an air source heat pump.

SilentDirect MLV
SilentDirect MLV (Mass Loaded Vinyl) is a heavy, flexible, and high-performance soundproofing product that effectively blocks sound transmission. By installing SilentDirect MLV around the air source heat pump's casing or on nearby surfaces such as walls and screens, you can create a sound barrier that reduces sound propagation. MLV is particularly effective against low-frequency noise generated by the air source heat pump's compressor and fan. For best results, it can be combined with other sound-absorbing materials to create a more complete sound insulation solution.

SilentDirect Egg
SilentDirect Egg is a sound absorber made of NBR rubber (nitrile rubber), a material known for its excellent sound-absorbing properties. Its unique egg shape breaks up sound waves, reduces reflections, and eliminates resonance. By placing SilentDirect Egg on walls, interior walls of soundproof boxes, or other surfaces near the air source heat pump, you can significantly reduce reverberation and sound propagation. The product is particularly effective in confined spaces where sound is reflected. For best sound absorption, it is recommended to use the thickest sound absorber possible.

SilentDirect Neo
SilentDirect Neo is a flat version of SilentDirect Egg, made from the same highly absorbent NBR rubber. It offers excellent sound absorption and vibration damping but with a smooth surface, making it easy to install on flat surfaces. SilentDirect Neo is ideal for reducing sound reflections and absorbing disturbing noise around the air source heat pump. By placing it on screens, sound-absorbing boxes, or walls near the heat pump, you can create a more effective and quieter solution for noise reduction.

SilentDirect Seal
SilentDirect Seal is a high-quality sealing strip made of nitrile rubber (NBR) that is available in several different thicknesses and widths. It is perfect for eliminating sound leakage through small gaps and crevices in and around the air source heat pump installation. By sealing these openings, you can prevent sound from escaping and spreading into the surrounding area. SilentDirect Seal also helps to reduce vibrations by creating a flexible but stable connection between the pump and the mounting surfaces.