Nobody loves a loud heating system, but many people just assume that the sound is unavoidable. Loud noise may be normal with older forced-air units, but many modern heating units operate at impressively quiet levels.
What exactly makes one system quieter than another? From fan design to compressor technology, we discuss all the factors involved and give insights into the quietest HVAC and heat pump installation options for homeowners in Central Virginia.
How Heating System Noise Levels Are Measured
Heating system noise is expressed in dB (decibels), the standard unit for measuring sound. For reference, the inside of a library is around 40 dB, conversation is around 60 dB, and a rock concert is around 120 dB. There is a specific methodology for measuring HVAC sound level, outlined by the AHRI Standard 260.
In some cases, local regulations restrict how loud an HVAC system can be. Older units, such as single-stage furnaces, can be as loud as 70 dB or 75 dB. In contrast, some of the least noisy heat pumps can operate as low as 40 dB on the outside of the home.
Factors That Affect HVAC System Volume
These ranges in noise levels are because of differences in components and technology. Recent developments have allowed HVAC systems to operate quieter than ever. Inside the units, the compressors can operate in three different ways:
- Single-Stage: This type of compressor works in a binary fashion. It’s either ‘on’ or ‘off.’ That means it’s the loudest type of system, because it will only ever operate at maximum power.
- Two-Stage: Two-stage systems have much more adaptability. The compressor can be run in either a high or low setting. In the low setting, the sound is much quieter.
- Inverter-Driven: Inverter-driven compressors are found in the least noisy HVAC systems. They are electronically modulated, so the compressor speed can continuously change based on heating/cooling needs.
Fan design also contributes to the noise of a heating system. Fixed-speed fans only blow at one setting, so there’s never any ‘quiet mode.’ Variable speed fans, on the other hand, can change their speed based on the input of load sensors.
The Importance of Quality Installation
Besides internal components, the quality of an installation affects a system’s noise. Poorly installed HVAC units can rattle, clunk, vibrate, and make a number of other annoying noises. Skilled contractors care just as much about this as they do energy efficiency and comfort. They ensure a system is operating at its quietest level by:
- Using Manual J to perform accurate load calculations. This data is then used to size equipment properly, ensuring that it doesn’t turn on more than it needs to.
- Taking time to consider a homeowner’s needs and installing HVAC units in thoughtful places away from living spaces.
- Isolating vibrations and avoiding rattles by installing ductwork correctly.
The Best Options in Central Virginia: Low Noise Heat Pumps and Furnaces
Homeowners who are looking to install the quietest HVAC system in their Charlottesville or Richmond home have two main choices: heat pumps and high-efficiency furnaces.
Compared to most systems, heat pumps tend to produce the least amount of noise. They are installed on the exterior of the residence, but are quiet enough that they don’t bother neighbors. Inside the home, the ductless heat pump wall units can be measured at less than 25 dB, which is no louder than a whisper or rustling leaves.
Enjoy Quiet, Comfortable Climate Control with Low Noise HVAC
The comfort that’s provided by heating and cooling systems should not be lost because of noise. While a loud blower fan or a periodic bang from the basement furnace used to be acceptable, quiet options like heat pumps and high-efficiency furnaces are the new normal.
At The Comfort Squad, we know that having an unobtrusive HVAC system is just as important to our customers as consistent comfort. We make sure to equip homeowners with heating equipment that improves . to size every system to meet a home’s exact needs, ensuring that it’s whisper-quiet all year long.