How does it work?

The way a heat pump operates means it produces some sound; a 100% silent heat pump does not exist. The sound is comparable to the hum of a refrigerator turning on. It’s not loud at all, but because your heat pump is installed outdoors, it’s important that it doesn't disturb the surroundings. That makes sense!

That is why heat pumps must comply with noise standards. Proper placement, vibration dampening, and adjustable settings—such as the night mode in the Weheat app—all play a role in this.

Noise requirements for outdoor installations, including heat pumps

Since April 1, 2021, new noise requirements have been in place for outdoor installations, including heat pumps.  

According to the Building Decree, the following maximum sound pressure levels apply:

• Daytime (07:00 - 19:00): Maximum 45 dB(A) at the property boundary.

• Evening and night (19:00 - 07:00): Maximum 40 dB(A) at the property boundary.

These values are measured at the property line shared with neighbors and apply when the unit is running at full capacity.

Weheat heat pumps: quieter than ever!

These measures are intended to limit noise pollution and encourage the development of quieter equipment. And it works! Thanks to a smart software update, we have made our heat pumps up to 21% quieter.

You don't have to do a thing as an owner. We handle the update, and ta-da: you can now fine-tune the noise level of your heat pump.  

You can read more about this innovation here: How our heat pumps became 21% quieter.

How much noise does a Weheat heat pump make?

Sound can be measured and expressed in different ways. The two most important terms here are:

-         Sound power (LwA) is the total amount of sound a heat pump produces, expressed in decibels (dB(A)). This is a fixed characteristic of the device.

-         Sound pressure (LpA) is the sound level perceived at a specific distance from the heat pump. This level varies depending on factors such as distance, reflections, and environmental conditions.

To determine where your heat pump should be placed and which mode it should run in, we always look at the sound pressure (LpA).  

Sound pressure of Weheat heat pumps in standard mode

Blackbird: 38 dB(A)

Sparrow: 40.5 dB(A)

Flint: 37.5 dB(A)

All Weheat models fall below the limit values set by the Building Decree. This limit is lower at night, which is why our smart software engineers developed a 'night mode.' Whisper-quiet while still keeping your home at the right temperature.

Quiet heat pump, comfortable home

Weheat heat pumps are whisper-quiet and can be made even quieter if necessary thanks to software updates. So, don't worry about heat pump sound pressure; focus on the savings (bye-bye, high energy bills) and making your home more sustainable.  

A nice bonus is that a heat pump is one of the best ways to increase your home's value. With a heat pump, you're set for the future. Even in cold winters, you'll stay nice and warm without worrying about emissions or gas prices.  

‍

‍