Reducing noise from a multi-zone heat pump: practical solutions within your reach
At AirGreen, we understand how essential thermal comfort is in a home or building. But comfort should never come at the expense of acoustic peace. If your multi-zone heat pump becomes noisy, it can quickly turn a calm environment into a source of daily stress. Fortunately, there are targeted and effective solutions to fix this issue without compromising your HVAC system’s performance.
Here are 5 concrete and proven solutions, based on our on-site experience across Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore, to help you bring tranquility back to your living or working space.
Identifying the exact source of the noise: a critical first step
Before making a diagnosis or recommending a fix, it’s essential to pinpoint the exact origin of the noise. At AirGreen, every service call begins with a thorough inspection:
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Compressor vibrations
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Unbalanced fan
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Loose mounting brackets
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Resonance noise in the ductwork
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Electrical issues in the control modules
This initial step is crucial to avoid unnecessary repairs and directly address the root cause of the problem.
Solution 1: Anti-vibration insulation and soundproofed mounting bases
One of the most common problems with multi-zone heat pumps is the noise generated by the outdoor compressor’s vibrations. This issue is more pronounced when the unit is installed on a light wall or a wooden balcony.
We use specialized anti-vibration mounts and dense foam or rubber bases that absorb the vibrations and significantly reduce structure-borne noise. This technique proved effective during a service call in Ahuntsic, Montreal, where a Gree MultiZone heat pump was causing noise issues for the entire building. By adding isolating blocks and reinforced fixings, we managed to reduce the perceived noise by nearly 60%.
Solution 2: Fan adjustment and indoor unit cleaning
The indoor fan can also be a source of noise, especially when dust accumulates or the blades become unbalanced. A regular HVAC maintenance visit by our teams allows us to:
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Clean the fan blades
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Lubricate the rotating shafts
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Re-align the motor or replace worn parts
We recently carried out this type of service in Boucherville for a Fujitsu MultiZone KWLH R-32 heat pump. The client complained of a low humming noise during heating mode. A simple rotor re-alignment and thorough cleaning restored perfectly silent operation.
Solution 3: Adjusting fan speeds and fine-tuning electronic settings
Some newer multi-zone heat pumps, especially models from Bosch BIVA IDS or Goodman, allow you to fine-tune fan or compressor speeds. We can reprogram the control boards to:
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Reduce noisy startup surges
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Optimize speed settings for night mode
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Activate manufacturer-provided “low noise” options
In Laval, a duplex owner with a Bosch IDS Premium R-454B multi-zone heat pump reported loud noises when switching from heating to cooling. By tweaking the advanced settings of the outdoor module, we managed to reduce the frequency of these cycles and soften the thermal transitions.
Solution 4: Enhancing indoor soundproofing
If the heat pump is installed near a bedroom or office, even moderate noise can be disturbing. We then recommend adding sound-insulating materials around the indoor unit:
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Acoustic foam in wall cavities
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Double-thickness drywall panels
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Acoustic doors if needed
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Sealing of air ducts
This type of solution was successfully applied in a century-old home in Longueuil, where the Zephyr R32 multi-zone system caused wall vibrations. Adding an acoustic partition around the indoor unit reduced sound levels to below 25 dB, the equivalent of a whisper.
Solution 5: Strategic replacement of components or the system
In extreme cases, where the system is old, poorly installed, or incompatible with the building’s needs, we recommend a partial or full replacement of the multi-zone heat pump. We then suggest models that are:
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Ultra-quiet (indoor units below 20 dB)
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Variable-speed to avoid noise spikes
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Equipped with latest-generation inverter compressors
For instance, a condo association in Blainville (North Shore) replaced an aging multi-zone system with a Fujitsu KZAH R-32 heat pump, known for its quiet performance. The result: unanimous satisfaction from condo owners, who also benefited from a LogisVert grant.
Why choose AirGreen to diagnose and fix noise issues in your multi-zone heat pump?
At AirGreen, we don’t just install or maintain your HVAC systems. We offer a comprehensive expertise that considers thermal, acoustic, and energy comfort. Our technicians are specially trained to identify abnormal noise, propose customized solutions, and ensure a peaceful environment year-round.
We serve all sectors of Montreal, Laval, Longueuil, as well as the North Shore and South Shore. Whether it’s for a residence, rental property, daycare, or commercial space, our goal is always the same: to deliver fast, professional service tailored to your acoustic needs.
Tips to prevent noise issues in the future
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Have your multi-zone heat pump inspected annually
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Avoid installing the unit on light or poorly anchored surfaces
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Choose a model known for its low noise levels
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Request an acoustic audit if you’re renovating or designing your building
At AirGreen, we believe that a good HVAC system is one you don’t hear.