Is the noise from air conditioning units leaving you feeling agitated instead of cooled, or is the slight increase in noise acceptable for the accompanying relief of cool air?
In the world of air conditioning, noise levels have long been a concern for many homeowners and office workers. However, recent advancements have led to a significant reduction in the decibel levels of various air conditioning units, providing a more peaceful environment for all.
Adam Knight, a lead engineer at heating and cooling experts BOXT, brings over 17 years of industry experience to the table. His expertise shines in the development of air conditioning units that prioritise quiet operation without compromising on efficiency.
One such example is the Duux Whisper fan, which operates at an astonishingly quiet 13 dB. With 26 different speeds, this fan offers a level of customisability that caters to every comfort need, all while barely making a sound. Even on its highest setting, the Quiet Mark rated portable air conditioner only reaches 54 decibels, a noise level comparable to a normal conversation.
The comparison of noise levels across different types of air conditioning units is quite revealing. Fixed (split) ACs, for instance, range from 19 dB to 65 dB, with quiet models at low settings as low as 19–32 dB. Portable ACs, while generally noisier, can still achieve noise levels as low as 40–50 dB, depending on quality and settings. Outdoor units, on the other hand, are typically louder, producing noise levels above 50 dB.
The logarithmic nature of the decibel scale means a 10 dB increase sounds roughly twice as loud. Therefore, a 13 dB fan like the Duux Whisper is significantly quieter than a typical portable AC unit, which usually operates between 55–65 dB.
Industry experts like Katie Lilywhite, an air treatment expert at AO.com, emphasise the importance of maintaining clean filters and keeping all windows and doors closed to keep portable air conditioners quiet. Choosing a premium brand with quieter technology, ensuring the unit is properly installed and serviced, and placing the external unit in a sensible location can also help reduce air conditioning noise.
Expert installers, such as those working with brands like Bosch and Daikin, are trained to advise on the quietest, most efficient setup for a specific space. A quieter portable air conditioner can be selected by checking the decibel ratings on the product description or looking for units that are Quiet Mark rated.
Heat pumps, another popular choice for air conditioning, are not permitted to produce more than 65-70 decibels, depending on their power, a noise level similar to a dishwasher. All heat pumps must have a CE label stating their sound level for transparency.
In summary, indoor units and quiet fixed ACs can achieve noise levels as low as 19–32 dB, portable ACs generally range from 40 to 65 dB depending on quality and settings, and outdoor units are louder, typically above 50 dB. By making informed choices and taking necessary precautions, homeowners and office workers can enjoy a quieter, more comfortable environment this summer.
- The development of air conditioning units that prioritize quiet operation is a significant advancement, as demonstrated by the Duux Whisper fan, which operates at 13 dB, barely making a sound.
- Katie Lilywhite, an air treatment expert, stresses the importance of maintaining clean filters and closing doors and windows to keep portable air conditioners quiet.
- Expert installers, such as those working with brands like Bosch and Daikin, can guide homeowners on the quietest, most efficient setup for their specific space.
- To select a quieter portable air conditioner, consumers should check the decibel ratings on the product description or look for units that are Quiet Mark rated.
- Heat pumps, another popular choice for air conditioning, are not permitted to produce more than 65-70 decibels, a noise level similar to a dishwasher.
- With the advancements in air conditioning technology, homeowners and office workers can design their living and working spaces with both energy-efficiency and quiet lifestyle in mind.
- Properly maintaining and installing air conditioning units, along with choosing premium brands with quieter technology, can help reduce air conditioning noise and create a more peaceful environment for all.
