Are newer HVAC quieter?

Author: Torey Harber DDS  |  Last update: Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Newer HVAC Systems Are Quieter Plus, they feature fans with advanced blade shapes that cut down on the noise generated while in operation. Today's quietest HVAC systems make as little as 68 decibels of sound while running.

Are new HVAC systems quieter?

Most heating systems manufactured today are quieter than those produced in past years.

Which HVAC brand is the quietest?

Below are some of the quietest air conditioners on the market, from top-brand manufacturers:
  • Lennox XC25 Variable-Speed Air Conditioner = As Low as 59 dB.
  • Carrier Infinity® 19 Variable-Speed AC = As Low as 56 DB.
  • York Affinity™ YXV Variable-Capacity Air Conditioner = As Low as 53 dB.

What is the difference between old and new AC units?

The newer AC units use a refrigerant that doesn't have the same temperature range as the older systems. To compensate, the coils require a faster fan speed than older furnaces can manage. I just got done replacing a system in a house that we were trying to sell.

Should I be able to hear my HVAC?

For the most part, an HVAC system will be very quiet background noise that's easy to ignore. An HVAC system usually won't run loudly unless there's a problem. Your HVAC system, if there's a problem, may make several different noises. You may hear a buzzing noise, a popping sound, or even clanking.

How to Quiet a Noisy Forced-Air System | This Old House

Can you make your HVAC quieter?

Use Sound Blankets and Barrier Walls

Products like those offered by Sound Fighter Systems are designed specifically for HVAC noise reduction. These barriers not only mitigate sounds from HVAC units but can also block external noise from highways, railways, and industrial activities.

What is the normal sound of a HVAC system?

Inside, your HVAC system should be a quiet hum in the background, typically ranging at 30-60 dB. With some regular TLC, you can help to ensure it continues to stay that way Insulation, quality filters, and regular system maintenance are the secret to a harmonious indoor atmosphere.

Should I replace my 15 year old AC unit?

14 to 20 years old: This is the average life span of well-maintained HVAC equipment. A breakdown at this age may warrant a replacement.

Should 30 year old ductwork be replaced?

How long should ductwork last? You should replace your ductwork every 15 years because the materials deteriorate over time, impacting HVAC performance and indoor air quality.

How often should HVAC be replaced?

If you kept your air conditioner in good condition over its lifetime, expect to need a replacement in about 10-15 years. Keep in mind that as your A/C grows older, its mechanical parts can become unavailable or obsolete over time. If you aren't able to replace a broken part, you will need to purchase new unit.

Are there quiet HVAC units?

There are many quiet HVAC systems to choose from, but the right one for your home will depend on various factors, like the size of your space. If you're looking for a quiet HVAC system, consider a ductless mini-split system, a high-efficiency central air conditioner, or a hybrid system.

What is America's most trusted HVAC?

Trane Named America's Most Trusted HVAC Brand for 11th Consecutive Year in Lifestory Research Study. NEWPORT BEACH, CA, UNITED STATES, January 7, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The results are in, and Trane has once again been named America's Most Trusted® HVAC brand by Lifestory Research.

Which AC makes less noise?

Ductless air conditioners are the quietest operating of all the types of air conditioners. Since the compressor is outside and ducts do not run through the entire home, the noise level during operation is greatly reduced.

Why is my new HVAC so loud?

All-in-all, your air conditioning unit may be buzzing due to loose parts. Some components that can become detached and loose include fan blades, refrigerant piping, and other internal parts. In some cases, the loose part can be adjusted and tightened to fix the problem.

What is the life expectancy of a new HVAC system?

A heating or cooling system is a significant investment, and it only makes sense to get as much use out of it as possible. In general, most HVAC systems will last 15 to 25 years, but depending on the type of system and other contributing factors, that estimate can be highly variable.

Are higher SEER AC units quieter?

Will a high SEER AC unit be quieter than my current unit? In most cases, high SEER air conditioners run more quietly than lower SEER-rated ACs, especially if they have variable-speed compressors and less noisy fan motors.

How expensive is it to replace ductwork?

Duct replacement costs typically range from around $20–$60 per linear foot, based on our team's market research. For example, if your home has 100 feet of ductwork, a complete replacement can cost between $2,000 and $6,000.

How often should ducts be cleaned?

Experts advise having your air ducts cleaned every 2 to 3 years to prevent many maintenance and health problems before they start. However, homes with pets or children with allergies should have their air ducts professionally cleaned more frequently than the recommended average.

Does homeowners insurance cover ductwork?

Your homeowner's insurance won't cover cleaning, repairing or replacing your ductwork. What does a home warranty cover when it comes to AC units and ductwork?

How much does it cost to replace an entire HVAC system?

According to HomeGuide.com, the average cost to replace the HVAC units is $5,000 to $11,000; to replace the units with ductwork runs between $7,000 and $16,000 in total.

Can an AC unit last 50 years?

HVAC systems can last anywhere from 10 years to 50 years. It all comes down to the type of system and how well it's maintained. If you remember to do things like replace the air filter every few months, clean the condenser coils, and seek repairs promptly when needed, your system will last for years to come.

How often should I change my HVAC filter?

Generally, most air filter manufacturers and HVAC companies recommend changing your air filter every 90 days, or 3 months. That can change based on where your home is located (ex. dusty, dry climates), if you have any pets, and the age of your system and equipment.

Should I be able to hear my AC unit?

Many air conditioners will make some kind of noise, but this is generally restricted to a soft hum during the cooling cycle or a handful of clicks at the start of each one. If you're hearing any other noises coming from your air conditioner, it's a solid sign that something isn't working right.

Do duct silencers work?

The duct silencers enable maintaining proper acoustic parameters in the rooms – even reducing noise in the rooms which require a high degree of acoustic comforts, such as e.g. sleeping rooms or reading rooms. The noise can be generated not only by the flow of air through the ducts.

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