PROJECT

Noise from heat pumps in multi-family dwellings – an obstacle for increased energy efficiency?

The project maps the conditions for using heat pumps in multi-family buildings with timber frames and what factors influence these conditions.

PROJECT INFORMATION
Timeline
March 2024 – October 2025

Total cost of project
550 800 SEK

Swedish Energy Agency’s project number
P2023-01510

Coordinator
RISE – Research Institutes of Sweden

Participants
RISE

Project manager and contact
Ola Gustafsson: ola.gustafsson@ri.se

Multi-family buildings with wooden frames are becoming increasingly common in Sweden. These buildings have different acoustic properties than conventional buildings with concrete frames.

In this feasibility study we will map challenges related to noise from installations in wooden buildings. The purpose is to increase the understanding of the following:

  • whether noise is or may become an obstacle to increased use of heat pumps in multi-family buildings
  • if there is a need for updated guidelines during installation
  • whether the available data for heat pumps and other installations are sufficient for design
  • if further research in the area is necessary

We will examine the extent to which noise problems occur today in multi-family buildings constructed with timber frames. We will also analyze how this might unfold in a future market where timber buildings are expected to become more common, while heat pumps are becoming progressively quieter.

Through dialogue with property owners, installers, tenant-owner associations, and technology developers, we will gather knowledge and experiences on this topic. We will also conduct surveys and simple noise measurements in two properties.”