HVAC noise complaints are far from a rarity; businesses and authorities all around the world receive complaints from office workers, neighbors, and other businesses suffering from disturbance caused by the noise generated by HVAC units on rooftops and in compounds. A large array of HVACs can reach problematic noise levels even in the absence of typical issues such as duct system noise, loud return grilles, and high air velocity, often exceeding 85 dB in larger systems. To reduce the impact of HVAC noise on the external environment, noise barriers can be applied to the perimeter of the unit or a series of units.

HVAC Noise Barriers: What Can I Use?

A physical barrier between the HVAC unit and potential noise receivers will reduce the noise’s perceived intensity. The extent of that reduction depends on multiple factors, such as the distance between the unit and the barrier, the composition of the barrier, and the frequency range of the noise. There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of noise barriers:

Concrete & wood barriers: Noise barriers built from heavy materials are very effective at preventing noise from passing immediately through the barrier, however, they often have highly-reflective acoustic properties, meaning as much as 98% of the HVAC noise will bounce back off the barrier and into the atmosphere, redirecting the problem instead of resolving it.

Cooling and heating systems are notoriously renowned for creating noise issues.

Fixed noise barrier solutions: Fixed barrier solutions usually provide the critical absorptive properties that harder, denser materials lack. While fixed, purpose-made noise barriers’ absorption and reduction properties are unmatched, these solutions are also often costly to install, uninstall, and repurpose for future use. 

Portable noise barrier solutions: Portable barriers also provide considerable noise absorption and reduction, while addressing the cost issues presented by fixed noise barrier solutions. Many portable barriers lack the robustness required to remain installed outdoors on a long-term basis, but not all portable noise barriers are equal.

Echo Barriers for HVAC Noise

Echo Barrier is the leading portable noise control solution, providing acoustic performance that matches heavier alternatives while remaining durable, weatherproof and competitive on cost.