In today’s business place, HVAC systems have become a way of life to make environments climate controlled and comfortable. This helps to increase employee comfort and productivity. While these systems are clearly a step above the wood burning fireplace for heat and the open window for cooling, they do come with some inherent issues. One of those issues is the noise level. While they are self-contained, the design and implementation of an HVAC system can create situations in which sound becomes a byproduct. When noisy HVAC systems invade the workplace, it is important to address it with HVAC silencers.
Learning how to soundproof HVAC systems is an artform. While it isn’t overly complicated, there is a lot to learn about the causes of the unwanted noise. Once this is realized, a sound reduction plan can be implemented.
Why Should We Soundproof HVAC Systems?
The basic principle of an HVAC system is simple. It forces air through ducts that either cool or heat the area. This creates an environment in which noise can be created quite easily. The two main culprits of noise in an HVAC system are:
- Noisy Ductwork
- Vibration
Repeated exposure to noise can result in several serious health problems. It can result in the following:
- High Blood Pressure
- Anxiety
- Hearing Loss
- Heart Conditions
- Poor Sleep
All noise is a result of vibrations. If the vibration is reduced, then the sound will decrease too.
How to Address Noisy HVAC Systems
When the HVAC unit kicks on to provide heat or air-conditioning, the energy used can create vibrations that can reach beyond the unit itself. To lessen those vibrations, HVAC units should be soundproofed. This can be done by doing the following:
- Use Isolation Pads Below the Unit
- Use Damping Materials Around the Unite
- Use Vent Combined Silencers
- Use HVAC Silencers
There is a great deal of vibrational energy associated with the operation of the HVAC unit. These vibrations can pass to the floor causing unwanted noise. Using an isolation pad can cut down on those vibrations. Using damping materials such as vent combined silencers can cut down the amount of vibrational noise associated with venting systems. They not only provide that service, but also prevent speech and other sounds from traveling the length of the ducts and into other areas of the structure. By using damping materials, it can help with air vent noise reduction.
It is important to provide a noise-free environment for employees. It will help in comfort and productivity. It will also lessen the changes of employees suffering from medical complications. If you have questions regarding your noisy HVAC system, reach out to IES-2000 for more information. We are your partner in HVAC system noise reduction.