IS THERE REALLY THAT MUCH DIFFERENCE IN AIR CONDITIONER AND HEAT PUMP SOUND LEVELS?

Q: Is there really that much difference in air conditioner and heat pump sound levels?

A: Because the answer is most definitely YES! Until recently, noisy air conditioners and heat pumps were accepted as the norm. High noise levels were even associated with the “power” of heating and cooling systems. But today’s technology lets you choose an air conditioner or heat pump that is not only highly efficient, but also exceptionally quiet.

HOW IS SOUND MEASURED?

Sound is measured in decibels (db). A decibel describes the relative loudness of a sound.

WHY IS A SOUND RATING IMPORTANT?

Although no financial savings are tied to it, the sound rating of a cooling system can directly affect your comfort. Your ears tell you what is too noisy, and what seems quiet. The chart below shows sound ratings for some common sounds that you are used to hearing:

Common Noise/Decibel Level

Blender-88

Garbage Disposal-80

Dishwasher-75

Voice (normal level)-70

Obviously, the sound an air conditioner or heat pump makes depends on a variety of factors, not the least of which are the age of the unit and whether or not the compressor is insulated. On average, the noise level of air conditioners and heat pumps rate somewhere between a dishwasher and a garbage disposal.

ARE ALL AIR CONDITIONERS AND HEAT PUMPS QUIET?

Most heating and cooling systems manufactured today are quieter than those produced in past years. But there is still a great difference in the sound levels of products on the market today. Be sure to compare sound ratings when you shop for a new air conditioner or heat pump…your good night’s sleep depends on it.

LENNOX…DESIGNED TO BE QUIET

Goodman designs each air conditioner and heat pump to be as quiet as possible. Through extensive testing, Goodman has come up with many features that, either alone or in combination, make our air conditioners and heat pumps some of the quietest available.

Insulated compressor compartments, discharge mufflers and unique fan designs work to soften the sound of a hard-working, high-efficiency compressor. Top-panel orifices, compressor wrappers and indoor blowers are all designed to further enhance smooth, quiet airflow.

Purchasing an air conditioner or heat pump system with a low sound rating will make you more comfortable…because even on the hottest summer days or coldest winter nights, you’ll feel your air conditioner or heat pump working, not hear it.

Call your independent Goodman dealer to find out about a new Goodman heating and cooling system that offers maximum comfort with minimum noise.

© Copyright Goodman Industries Inc., 1999