We have all become accustomed to HVAC systems and the comfort they provide. Climate control was something of sci-fi novels in the 30s and 40s. In those days, families hoped for summer breezes in the heat choked summers. Technological advances improve every day life in almost every aspect. We communicate in ways never thought possible and share information across the globe with our smartphones. Thankfully, technology has also improved the world of HVAC too. Offering climate-controlled offices and homes, it has become commonplace. However, when an HVAC system is noisy, it can ruin the tranquil comforts. What can be done about it? Our acoustic technicians can provide an assessment and recommendations which may include noise reduction enclosures.
Why is Soundproofing Necessary?
Noise is caused by vibration. In most cases, vibration in an HVAC system is a sign the system is functioning inefficiently. Unwanted HVAC noise, in an office setting, can cause employees to be less productive, distracting them from their work. It can also induce stress. At home, it can cause sleepless nights and anxiety. IES-2000 can offer simple solutions for HVAC noise control.
Sources for HVAC noise:
- Furnaces/Air-conditioners
- Ductwork
Noisy Furnaces and Air-conditioners
One of the key noise causing components in an HVAC system is the heating and air-conditioning unit. When they click on, fans come on to force cooled or heated air throughout the house via ducts. The fans can create vibrations which then move throughout the system, creating noise. There are several ways to combat this.
- Install an Isolation Pad and Vibration Mounts
- Wrap Damping Materials Around the Unit
- Use an HVAC Close Enclosure
Wrapping damping materials is in essence, like installing noise reduction enclosures around the unit. IES-2000 can help determine if any of these solutions can help diminish your noise control situation.
Noisy Ductwork
There can be hundreds of feet of ductwork behind walls and under floors of any structure. Because ducts are not only metal, but also hollow, they can be noise generator. There are a number of things that can be done to help the situation.
The best ones are listed below:
- Wrap Ducts in Damping Material
- Insulate the Ducts
- Install Duct Silencers
All of the techniques above will work well in most situations. When heated or cooled air passes through the metal ducts, it can cause them to expand or contract. When this happens, it can create noise. They can also make noise by transmitting the vibrations of the HVAC unit. Wrapping them and insulating them with damping material will help.
If you have questions regarding noise control enclosures and other noise damping techniques, reach out to IES-2000. We are acoustic technician specialists and can help you with any noise reduction project.