Are Heat Pumps Noisy? The Truth About Heat Pump Noise and What You Need to Know

As more UK homes prepare to transition from gas boilers to heat pumps, one question keeps coming up: Do heat pumps make too much noise? Whether you're installing your first heat pump or live next door to someone who is, understanding the real noise levels of heat pumps is key to separating myth from reality.

In this guide, we explore what causes heat pump noise, how loud they actually are, and what regulations and solutions are in place to ensure quiet and neighbor-friendly performance.

Why Heat Pump Noise Is a Concern

With over 25 million heat pumps projected for installation across the UK, it’s natural to ask how this might affect neighborhood noise levels.

• Daily Telegraph headlines have warned of “civil unrest” caused by noisy heat pumps.

• Online forums feature homeowners worried about the sounds of fans and compressors.

• Neighbors of early adopters sometimes complain about unfamiliar humming noises.

But are these concerns backed by reality—or just misconceptions?

What Makes a Heat Pump Noisy?

Modern air source heat pumps—the most common type in UK homes—create sound through three main components:

1. Compressor: Moves refrigerant and generates the most mechanical noise.

2. Fan: Pulls air through the system; can create "white noise" like a breeze or low hum.

3. Airflow: The sound of air being moved, which depends on speed and design.

   
   

Key Factors That Influence Noise:

• Fan speed (slower = quieter)

• Distance from the unit

• Barriers or soundproofing (walls, hedges, fencing)

• Unit design and build quality

  
  

How Loud Is a Heat Pump, Really?

Heat pump noise is measured in decibels (dB). For context:

Sound Source	Approximate dB
Whisper (1m away)	30 dB
Refrigerator hum	40 dB
Normal conversation	55–60 dB
Heat pump (1m from unit)	~53 dB
Heat pump (at property line)	35–40 dB

When installed correctly, most modern heat pumps will generate less noise than a typical fridge—and significantly less than a boiler flu or oil boiler startup.

In fact, in urban environments where cars, planes, and chatter are constant, it’s unlikely you’d even notice the heat pump at all.

UK Noise Regulations for Heat Pumps

To meet permitted development rights (i.e. not needing planning permission), UK heat pumps must comply with noise limits set by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).

MCS Noise Guidelines:

• Maximum allowable noise at 1m: ~53 dB

• Boundary line noise limit: ~42 dB (day), lower at night

• New MCS standards (under revision) aim to account for quieter modern units

Manufacturers must disclose their sound power levels. You can also ask installers about night-time fan speed settings, which reduce noise further.

Common Heat Pump Noise Myths (Debunked)

❌ “Heat pumps are noisier than gas boilers.”

In reality, gas boilers make bursts of noise—especially on ignition. Heat pumps emit a steady, low-level hum, often below conversation level.

❌ “They click on and off all the time.”

Most modern heat pumps are designed for long, steady operation with no more than 3 starts per hour. The sound is far less disruptive than frequent cycling.

❌ “They’re like air conditioners running at full speed.”

While heat pumps share some components with AC units, heating mode requires less airflow—and manufacturers prioritize low noise for domestic models.

What If the Noise Is a Problem?

In rare cases where noise becomes a concern—due to poor installation or proximity—there are several solutions:

✔️ Strategic Placement

Install away from bedroom windows, neighboring fences, or acoustic “hotspots” like narrow alleys.

✔️ Acoustic Fencing or Barriers

Installing sound-absorbing fences or panels can reduce direct noise transmission.

✔️ Low-Noise Models

Manufacturers like Daikin, Mitsubishi, and others offer ultra-quiet heat pumps specifically designed for UK homes.

✔️ Routine Maintenance

Ensuring the fan bearings and compressor are maintained prevents rattling or vibration noise over time.

Urban Noise vs Rural Perception

Interestingly, noise perception is psychological. In noisy cities, a heat pump fades into the background. In quieter, rural areas, it may feel more noticeable—but spacing and positioning options are also more flexible.

A neighbor annoyed by a heat pump may be just as irritated by a hot tub, fridge compressor, or air conditioner—especially if they oppose the Net Zero transition.

What About Multiple Heat Pumps in One Street?

Studies from organisations like Nesta have modelled scenarios with many heat pumps in urban areas. The conclusion? Their cumulative impact is negligible compared to existing traffic, wind, and other ambient noise sources.

In fact, air source heat pumps are quieter than the average:

• Car engine

• Lawn mower

• Rubbish truck

• Power tool

  
  

Will Heat Pumps Get Quieter?

Yes. Manufacturers are:

• Increasing cabinet sizes to fit better sound insulation

• Using larger, slower fans to reduce air movement noise

• Developing next-gen low-noise compressors

• Designing heat pumps with night modes and remote monitoring

As the market matures and UK Building Regulations evolve, ultra-quiet models are rapidly becoming the norm.

So, Are Heat Pumps Too Noisy?

No. For most homeowners, heat pump noise is not an issue—especially with the latest models and proper installation. Here’s what you need to know:

✅ Heat pumps are quieter than gas boilers, in most cases✅ Regulations exist to control boundary noise levels✅ New models are getting quieter every year✅ Noise complaints are rare and easily managed✅ Most concern is psychological, not acoustic

Noise Is Not a Reason to Delay the Transition

Heat pump noise is one of the most overstated objections to decarbonizing home heating. With modern, professionally installed units, the reality is they’re barely noticeable—and often quieter than your fridge.