Are Air Source Heat Pumps Noisy?

Modern heat pumps are much quieter than many people expect. Most operate at noise levels similar to a fridge or a quiet conversation.

Sound levels vary by model and installation quality. Careful placement away from bedroom windows or neighbouring boundaries ensures minimal impact.

In this following article, we dive into the specific performance of the MasterTherm BoxAir Heat Pump:

A Quiet, Honest Guide for Homeowners Worried about Noise

If you’re considering an air source heat pump, one of the biggest worries is often: “Will it be noisy?” — especially if you live close to neighbours or are sensitive to background sound.

This guide answers the most common questions about the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 air source heat pump, focusing on real-world noise levels, what they mean for your home, and how noise is managed in practice.

Is the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 noisy?

No — the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 is designed to be a quiet heat pump for residential use.

It uses:

• A modern inverter-driven compressor
• Large, slow-turning fans (which are quieter than small fast ones)
• A sound-insulated casing
• Vibration-reducing internal mounting

This combination keeps noise low, smooth, and steady — with no sudden loud start-ups or rattling sounds.

For most homeowners, it blends into normal outdoor background noise.

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What is the Noise Level of the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290?

The published sound power level of the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 is approximately 58 dB(A) (check the official datasheet for the certified figure).

What you actually hear is the sound pressure level, which depends on distance. At typical distances from the unit (several metres), this usually falls into the low-to-mid 30 dB(A) range.

That’s roughly equivalent to:

• A quiet library
• Soft rainfall
• A calm garden with light wind

In other words: audible, but gentle — and easily masked by normal outdoor sounds.

Will my Neighbours Hear my Heat Pump?

In most homes, neighbours will either not hear it at all, or will notice it only faintly and occasionally.

Heat pumps:

• Run most quietly at part load (which is most of the year)
• Often reduce output further at night
• Produce a steady, low-frequency sound rather than sudden noise

When installed properly and positioned sensibly, the BA37IP R290 comfortably meets UK residential noise expectations and local planning requirements.

If your property has very close boundaries or strict planning conditions, a simple noise assessment can confirm this in advance.

Does the R290 Refrigerant Make it Louder?

No. R290 (propane) is an environmentally friendly refrigerant that improves efficiency and reduces climate impact — it does not increase noise.

Noise is determined by mechanical and acoustic design, not by the refrigerant itself.

How Can Noise be Kept as Low as Possible?

A quiet heat pump depends as much on installation as on the unit itself. Noise can be minimised by:

• Positioning the unit away from bedroom windows where possible
• Avoiding tight corners or echo-prone spaces between walls
• Using anti-vibration mounts
• Ensuring proper airflow clearance
• Correct system setup and commissioning

A well-installed heat pump is almost always quieter than a poorly installed one, regardless of brand.

How does it Compare to Other Heating Systems?

Compared to common alternatives:

• Oil or LPG boilers: often quieter and with less vibration
• Older air source heat pumps: significantly quieter
• Gas boilers: similar or quieter at typical distances

Many homeowners report that after a few weeks, they simply stop noticing the heat pump at all.

Is the MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 Suitable for Quiet or Sensitive Locations?

Yes. It is particularly well suited for:

• Residential and suburban homes
• Properties with close neighbours
• Noise-sensitive households
• Projects with planning or environmental noise limits

Summary: Should I Worry About Noise?

For most homes, No.

The MasterTherm BoxAir BA37IP R290 is a quiet, modern air source heat pump designed for residential environments. When installed correctly, it produces low, steady background sound that is unlikely to disturb you or your neighbours.

If you have a particularly sensitive site or personal concern about noise, Thermal Earth and your installer can advise on positioning, assessments, and mitigation — so you can move forward with confidence.