Quietest Heat Pumps in 2023: 8 Excellent Choices!
When you have had a stressful day, sometimes all you want is some peace. A noisy heat pump is the last thing you want when you are trying to calm your nerves and relax. This is why you should consider buying a heat pump with low noise levels for your home.
How will you know which brand and model runs quietly? Leave that to us. In this article, we will review some of the quietest heat pumps to help you make a suitable selection. We have tested and reviewed several heat pumps from different brands to find those that operate quietly.
Are heat pumps noisy?
Noise level is measured in decibels. Some heat pumps have a sound rating of up to 80 dB which is quite noisy. Other models however have a sound level rating as low as 30 dB which is equivalent to a whisper.
Heat pump noise is caused by compressors and fans. You can hear rattling or vibrating noises as your heat pump heats or cools your home. The goal is to select a quiet heat pump to ensure your comfort.
How and where your heat pump is installed will determine its noise levels. Be sure to consult a professional before deciding where to install your heat pump. Consider hiring an expert HVAC technician to properly install your heat pump.
Types of heat pumps
Before selecting a heat pump, try to research the types available. The type of heat pump determines its noise levels. Here are the most common types of heat pumps.
Air-source heat pumps
Air-source heat pumps use air to heat or cool your home. These heat pumps work by absorbing heat from the air and transferring it to the refrigerant. This refrigerant then passes through a compressor and heats your indoor space through radiators.
You can choose a ducted or ductless mini-split air-source heat pump. Ducted heat pumps require ductwork to function while ductless heat pumps don’t require ductwork. Ductless heat pumps are more energy-efficient than ducted systems. Ducted systems lose between 25% to 40% of energy through ducts.
Air-source heat pumps can be quite noisy since they are often located outside your home. The noise level of an air-source heat pump depends on its brand, installation, and how hard it is working. Most air-source heat pumps produce noise ranging from around 40 to 60 dBs.
Ground-source heat pumps
Ground-source heat pumps utilize heat from the earth to heat or cool your home. Since they use renewable energy, these heat pumps are energy-efficient. A ground-source heat pump can help you cut down utility costs in the long run.
Ground source heat pumps are also eco-friendly since they utilize renewable energy from soil or water in the ground. Ground-source heat pumps are some of the quietest heat pumps that you can choose for your home.
These types of heat pumps are generally quieter than other types like air-source heat pumps. Ground-source heat pumps produce an average sound level rate of 42 dBs. Since ground-source heat pumps don’t draw heat from the air, they don’t require fans and are therefore quieter than air-source heat pumps.
Geothermal heat pumps
Geothermal heat pumps use renewable geothermal energy from the earth’s core to heat or cool your indoor space. Like ground-source heat pumps, geothermal heat pumps are very energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
A geothermal heat pump saves you about 30% to 60% of your heating costs and around 50% of your cooling costs. Geothermal heat pumps are some of the least noisy heat pumps available in the market. These heat pumps run quietly because they don’t require outdoor compressors or fans to operate.
Quietest Heat pumps in 2023
With the countless heat pump models available in the market, it can be challenging to choose an ideal model that aligns with your needs. We have tested and reviewed some of the least noisy heat pumps to help you make a suitable selection.
1. Trane XV19 Variable Speed Low Profile Heat Pump
The Trane XV19 Variable Speed Low Profile heat pump is one of the quietest models available with a sound level rating ranging from 43 to 57 dbs. Consider choosing a model with the lowest noise level rating.
Not only is the Trane XV19 quiet but also energy-efficient. This heat pump is Energy-Star certified and has a SEER rating of up to 19. The heat pump’s variable compressor allows it to run more efficiently and save around 49% of energy.
This heat pump comes with amazing warranties that vary depending on your needs. You can choose the base limited warranty, registered limited warranty, or optional extended warranty. The warranty period ranges from 5-10+ years depending on your unit and type of warranty.
The Trane XV19 heat pump has a 4.5 rating out of 5. Most customers say that the unit is quiet and energy-efficient. Other clients say the variable speed compressor provides the comfort they need.
Pros
- Runs quietly
- Relatively energy-efficient
- Variable speed system provides maximum comfort
- Great warranties
Cons
- Not suitable if you are working on a tight budget
- Large units that are not suitable for small spaces
2. Daikin Altherma 3 H HT Heat pump
Another quiet heat pump we recommend is the Daikin 3 H HT Heat Pump. This whisper-quiet heat pump produces a sound level output ranging from 35-38 dBs.
What makes this heat pump run quietly is its high-capacity fan. Contrary to other units that need two fans to operate at high capacity, the Daikin Altherma 3 H HT heat pump only has one fan. The unit is also properly insulated to keep the noise levels low.
Besides operating quietly, the Daikin Altherma 3 H HT heat pump has a unique design and innovative technical features. This heat pump uses an R-32 refrigerant which is more energy-efficient. This refrigerant has a lower carbon footprint making the heat pump eco-friendly.
You can combine your Daikin Altherma 3 H HT heat pump with other indoor units to increase your comfort. Some of these units include a DHW stainless steel tank or a wall-mounted model.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Energy-efficient model
- Unique technical features
- Excellent performance in low temperatures
- Relatively easy to install
Cons
- The unit is costly
3. Mitsubishi Ecodan R32 Ultra Quiet PUZ Monobloc
The Mitsubishi Ecodan R32 Ultra Quiet PUZ Monobloc heat pumps from Mitsubishi Electric are some of the quietest air-source heat pumps available in the market. These heat pumps have considerably low noise level ratings ranging from 47 dBs to 56 dBs.
You can opt for a 6kw, 8.5kw, or 11.5kw heat pump depending on your heating needs. If you want to cut down utility costs, the Mitsubishi Ecodan R32 Ultra Quiet PUZ Monlobloc would be an ideal choice. This heat pump uses R32 refrigerant to increase energy efficiency.
This heat pump also operates at full capacity in low temperatures. This means that the heat pump can effectively heat your home during winter when the temperature is low. The Mitsubishi Ecodan R32 Ultra Quiet PUZ Monobloc heat pump has unique features including a remote control feature that allows you to easily control your heat pump.
Pros
- Operates in low temperatures
- Quiet operation
- A++ Energy-efficient unit
- Remote control feature
- MELCloud Wi-Fi enabled
Cons
- Has limited power output selections
4. American Standard AccuComfort TM 19 Low Profile Heat Pump
The AccuComfort TM 19 Low Profile heat pump from American Standard is one of the quietest heat pumps you can consider choosing for your home. The heat pump’s noise level is quite low and can provide the comfort you seek. Its fan produces a sound level rating ranging from 43dBs to 57dBs.
This heat pump is compact and would be ideal if you have limited space in your home. The American Standard AccuComfort TM Low Profile heat pump has a variable speed system that allows it to maintain the ideal temperature throughout.
When selecting a heat pump, energy efficiency should not be an exception. You want a unit that helps you save money in the long run. The AccuComfort TM Low Profile heat pump is energy-efficient and has a SEER rating of up to 19 and an HSPF rating of up to 9.
This heat pump is compatible with gas furnaces and can help you lower your energy costs further. The unit has a 4.8-star rating out of 5. Most clients love this heat pump for its quiet operation.
Pros
- Low noise levels
- Variable system technology
- Compact
- Energy-Star certified
- Excellent warranties
Cons
- Too large for small spaces
- The air handler could use some improvements
5. Daikin 24,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Heat Pump
The Daikin 24,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless Heat Pump is a reliable unit with low noise levels. This heat pump produces a sound level rating of 51 dBs which is considerably low compared to other heat pumps that generate up to 80 dBs.
This heat pump can effectively heat or cool a 1,500-square-foot home. The unit has a variable-speed compressor that allows it to operate effectively while saving energy costs. The Daikin 24,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless heat pump is energy-efficient and significantly reduces your energy costs.
You can easily pair this heat pump with your smartphone and adjust its settings whenever you want. This heat pump also has a 10-year warranty on parts. The Daikin 24,000 BTU Wall-Mounted Ductless heat pump has a sleek design that compliments other appliances in your home.
This heat pump has a 4.5-star rating out of 5 on Amazon which is pretty good. Most clients say that the unit is effective, energy-efficient, and easy to install.
Pros
- Relatively quiet
- Easy to install
- Energy-efficient unit
- Remote control feature
- Provides value for money
Cons
- Customer support could use some improvement
- Some clients have reported refrigerant leaks
6. Carrier Infinity 24 Heat Pump with Green Speed Intelligence
The Carrier Infinity 24 Heat Pump with Green Speed Intelligence is one of the quietest heat pumps with a noise level rating ranging from 51 dBs to 69 dBs. What makes this heat pump stand out is its Green Speed Intelligence feature.
This heat pump has a variable speed system that pairs with the Infinity System Control to operate more efficiently than regular heat pumps. The system allows the heat pump to maintain ideal temperatures in your home while maximizing energy efficiency.
The Carrier Infinity 24 heat pump has a SEER rating of up to 22 and an HSPF rating of up to 10 making the unit very energy-efficient. Besides being quiet and energy-efficient, this heat pump removes excess moisture from your indoor space and enhances your comfort.
This heat pump comes with a 10-year warranty on parts and unit replacement. The unit also has a weather armor feature that enhances its durability. The Carrier Infinity 24 heat pump has several reviews. Most clients say the unit is energy-efficient and it provides comfort.
Pros
- Green Speed Intelligence feature
- Highly energy-efficient
- Variable speed system
- Humidity control capability
- Excellent warranty
Cons
- Not suitable for buyers working within a budget
- Repairs can be costly
7. Therma V R32 Silent Monobloc
The Therma V R32 Silent Monobloc mimics its name by producing noise levels as low as 32 dBs in its low noise mode. Its quiet operation allows you to enjoy some peace and quiet in your home. This heat pump uses R32 refrigerant which increases energy efficiency and reduces carbon emissions.
The heat pump has an A+++ rating and can operate even at low temperatures. Since the Therma V R32 heat pump operates quietly, you can install it as high as 4 meters without interfering with noise regulations.
This heat pump has a Revolutionary Scroll Compressor that improves the system’s operations and increases energy efficiency. The Therma V R32 Silent Monobloc heat pump is compatible with smartphones allowing you to adjust its settings based on your heating or cooling needs.
The Therma V R32 Silent Monobloc heat pump has built-in components that make the unit easy to install. Your HVAC technician will not take up too much of your time when installing this heat pump.
Pros
- Operates quietly
- Very energy-efficient
- Optimum performance in low-temperature conditions
- Easy installation
Cons
- The unit is expensive
- Not suitable for small spaces
8. Bryant Evolution Variable-Speed Heat Pump
The Bryant Evolution Variable-Speed Heat Pump is an efficient heat pump with a noise level rating of 55 dBs. This heat pump has an AeroQuiet TM System II design that allows it to run quietly.
The unit is energy efficient and has a SEER rating of up to 18.5 and an HSPF rating of up to 9. If you are looking for an Energy-Star certified heat pump, you should consider choosing the Bryant Evolution Variable-Speed heat pump.
This heat pump utilizes inverter technology using a variable-speed compressor that allows the unit to operate efficiently. The variable-speed system allows the heat pump to maintain ideal temperatures indoors for maximum comfort.
The Bryant Evolution Variable-Speed Heat Pump is durable and provides a long service life. The unit is designed to withstand harsh weather elements and has a louvered cabinet that shields the coils from damage. This heat pump has a 10-year warranty for unit replacement.
You can easily schedule maintenance reminders using the Evolution Connex control. This way, your technician can address any potential problems before they escalate. Maintenance also helps you avoid costly heat pump repairs or replacements.
Pros
- Energy-Star certified
- Low noise levels
- Excellent performance
- Durable
Cons
- The unit could use more technologies
- Warranty plans could use some improvements
The bottom line
A quiet heat pump is the key to a calm and peaceful space. There are several types of heat pumps that you can choose depending on your needs.
Besides low noise levels, there are several qualities you should consider when choosing a heat pump. Some of these qualities include energy efficiency, size, performance, and much more, as I’ve we’ve pointed out throughout these reviews.
