Electric Heat Pump Noise

If you intend to install an electric heat pump, you will need to consider its noise impacts on neighbours.

The higher the noise levels from an electric heat pump, the further it will need to be located from a neighbour’s bedroom and/or living spaces.

As an example, an electric heat pump with a noise rating of 51 dB, measured at 1.5 metres from the unit, would typically need to be located at least 3 metres from a neighbour’s bedroom windows if it to run overnight. This 3 metre distance would typically be sufficient to lower noise levels to 45 dB, which is the limit set in the South Australian Environment Protection (Noise) Policy 2007 for night-time noise from equipment such as heat pumps.

An electric heat pump with a higher noise rating would need to be located further from the neighbour’s bedroom. A unit with a lower noise rating may be located closer.

Electric heat pump systems that only operate during the day may have higher noise levels than those discussed above. Further information is provided in the Environment Protection (Noise) Policy 2007.

The table below shows typical distances needed to meet the 45 dB night-time limit.

If your preferred electric heat pump cannot be installed far enough away from neighbour’s doors or windows, you will need to consider an alternative, quieter system or a different type of water heater.

Allowances may need to be made for situations where the gap between the house and the neighbour’s house is small, or where overhanging eaves may redirect noise back toward windows or doors. Screens, such as fences, may also help to reduce noise levels.

Visit www.epa.sa.gov.au/noise.html for more information on noise regulations.