Are there quiet HVAC units?

Author: Bette Schowalter  |  Last update: Thursday, March 20, 2025

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.

Which HVAC system is the quietest?

Mini split systems consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units. These systems are known for their quiet operation, making them an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. The indoor units of mini splits typically operate at low noise levels compared to the central AC systems.

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.

Are newer HVAC systems quieter?

Newer HVAC Systems Are Quieter

For example, new HVAC systems feature advanced compressors that don't make as much noise as old ones.

Are HVAC units supposed to be loud?

While all air conditioners will make some sound, they shouldn't be loud.

5 Common AC Noises and What They Could Mean

How do I reduce the noise in my HVAC unit?

One of the easiest and most cost-effective solutions for reducing noise is to install a sound blanket to act as an air conditioner noise barrier. You can check with your AC unit's manufacturer for a blanket size that will fit your unit, or you can purchase a universal sound blanket.

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.

Who makes the quietest AC unit?

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.

How do I reduce the noise in my HVAC ducts?

These are some simple ways you can stop ductwork noise:
  1. Clean or Replace the Filter. ...
  2. Clean the Ductwork. ...
  3. Adjust or Upgrade the Dampers. ...
  4. Insulate Your Ductwork. ...
  5. Check Your Furnace. ...
  6. Change the Blower. ...
  7. Install Ducts with an Insulated Liner.

Why is my outside HVAC so loud?

If you hear screeching noises from the outdoor unit when it's running, a bad compressor motor or a faulty outdoor fan motor is the culprit. The fan motor and compression are the most likely culprits of screeching noises from an outdoor AC unit.

Are some air conditioners quieter than others?

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.

What can I do about loud HVAC?

Upgrade Your HVAC System

Most HVAC systems come with a blower motor that is loud when it's running. This means that you may wish to upgrade your system to a quieter one if you want to reduce the noise from the equipment. You can replace your compressor or add one or two additional compressors.

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.

Is there a way to make HVAC quieter?

HVAC Soundproofing Recommended Methods
  1. Reduce the Sound at Its Source. ...
  2. Limit Ductwork Noise. ...
  3. Use a Soundproofing Wrap. ...
  4. Apply a Dampening Material. ...
  5. Consider Soundproof Blankets. ...
  6. Insulate Your Walls.

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.

Are Trane units quiet?

Trane air conditioners have sound levels as low as 57 dB and heat pumps have sound levels as low as 43 dB in their quietest mode. With Trane systems, you can rest assured that our high-efficiency compressors and specially designed tonal envelopes provide low sound levels in both air conditioners and furnaces.

How do I soundproof my HVAC?

Wall Soundproofing

Flat acoustic foam is one material that can be used for soundproofing and is one of the best to use to muffle noise. You can also use wood or vinyl panels to keep the sound from the HVAC unit contained. It's usually the most cost-effective way to reduce noise.

Does Flex duct reduce noise?

It reduces noise transmitted through the duct from the HVAC unit, as well as the noise generated by the air flow. This combination drastically reduces the noise coming out of the register.

How do I stop my HVAC fan from making noise?

Regularly replacing the air filters, as recommended by the manufacturer or HVAC technician, can significantly reduce fan noise, improve indoor air quality, and enhance overall system efficiency. You can also know your filter needs to be changed by looking at the color.

Is there a quiet HVAC system?

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.

Which air conditioner has the lowest noise level?

Ductless 'mini split' systems like Mitsubishi home air conditioning systems are the quietest air conditioners on the market today. With an average noise level of 32 decibels, ductless systems are not only whisper quiet, they offer some of the highest SEER ratings and most efficient performance on the market.

What is the quiet option on my AC unit?

ㆍQuiet mode ( ) makes the noise quieter during operating the indoor unit in the Heat mode. ㆍSince the air conditioner heats the room by taking heat energy from outdoor air, the heating capacity may decrease when outdoor temperature is extremely low.

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 much is a new HVAC system?

An HVAC replacement cost is $7,500 on average. This range could be as low as $5,000 or as high as $12,500, depending on the type and size of your unit, the brand, and labor costs. Your overall cost for a new HVAC unit could reach $22,000 if you add new ductwork and additional features like a HEPA filtration system.

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.

Previous article
Can laundry detergent go in the drum?
Next article
How do you get brown stains out of grout?