Are ground source heat pumps noisy?
Before committing to a heat pump, many homeowners want to know: Are ground source heat pumps noisy?
When researching renewable energy solutions for your home, you’re right to investigate every detail. From performance and energy efficiency to cost and disruption, it’s important to do your research.
In this post, we explore whether ground source heat pumps (GSHPs) are noisy, comparative noise levels, and what could cause a GSHP to be noisier than expected.
Ground source heat pumps explained
First, before looking into GSHP noise levels, it’s handy to understand how they work.
A ground source heat pump absorbs heat from the ground via buried pipes. The heat is then compressed and used as heating and hot water within your home.
As ground source heat pumps operate underground, they are virtually silent. Therefore, you won’t need to worry about any additional noise in your outside environment, or upsetting your neighbours.
However, that’s not to say the indoor components don’t emit any noise – more on this later.
Ground source heat pump noise levels
Compared with air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps are generally quieter. This is because they don’t use an outdoor fan unit to extract heat from the surrounding air.
However, no system is completely silent. The main source of noise in a GSHP system is the indoor components.
Indoor noise levels
The indoor unit is normally installed in a garage or utility room. Research has shown that this part of a ground source heat pump typically produces between 40-42dB.
But what does that actually sound like? Is that level of noise going to drive you mad or keep you up at night?
Comparative noise levels
To help make sense of the numbers, we’ve outlined some comparable noise levels of some everyday sounds:
- Whispering: 20-30dB
- Fridge: 40-50dB
- Washing machine: 50-75dB
- Dishwasher (switched on and running a cycle): 60dB
- Normal conversation: 60-70dB
A ground source heat pump produces less noise than a standard household washing machine—it’s on par with that of a modern fridge.
What can cause a ground source heat pump to be noisier?
Ground source heat pumps are one of the quietest heating solutions you can choose, making them an excellent choice if minimising noise is a top priority.
Having said that, if you have a ground source heat pump and you feel it’s noisier than expected, it’s important to understand why.
- Age: If you have an older pump, the noise could be due to the wear and tear of the components
- Water flow issues: A problem with the system’s circulation pump or water flow will cause the heat pump to work harder, leading to excess noise
- Installation: It could be that vibrations and extra noise are being created due to incorrect mounting or placement
If you notice your GSHP becoming unusually loud, contact an MCS-accredited professional to check for any issues.
Contact or pay a trade through Checkatrade and you’re covered by our 12-month guarantee of up to £1,000*
Find a heat pump installation expert near you
A heat pump is a wise investment for several reasons. Aside from being a sustainable source of energy, it can lower your bills, and could even add value to your property!
Find and hire an MCS-accredited installer for your heat pump, with Checkatrade. Search your postcode to find top-rated professionals in your area.
FAQs
What are the downsides of a ground source heat pump?
While ground source heat pumps have lots of benefits, there are some downsides to be aware of. The main one is cost. On average, it costs between £18,000 - £50,000 to install a ground source heat pump, although government grants are available through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
The other downside is that installing a GSHP requires sufficient outdoor space to bury the ground loops. Installation is likely to disrupt your garden.
Which heat pump is the quietest?
Ground source heat pumps are generally quieter than air source heat pumps because they don’t need an external fan. It’s worth comparing the decibel levels of different units before you make your purchase.
Why are heat pumps so noisy at night?
It might appear that your heat pump is noisier at night simply due to the quieter environment. However, if the noise is considerably louder it could be due to a technical issue such as changes in system pressure or a problem with the water flow.
How do you dampen a heat pump noise?
If you’re concerned about noise levels, consider installing the indoor unit in a well-insulated place or using soundproofing materials around it. Sometimes, anti-vibration mounts are also used.
Make sure an accredited installer installs your heat pump and commit to regular servicing and maintenance to help keep your unit running smoothly (and quietly!).
Why is my heating pump so noisy?
A noisy heat pump could indicate an issue with the system, such as trapped air, blockages, or worn-out parts. It’s best to have a certified installer inspect the system to help fix the problem before it worsens and potentially leads to more serious issues.
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