Noise-free ventilation, silent comfort and no acoustic pollution

Acoustic regulations are very important in all properties and cities. Noise and acoustic pollution are a problem that must be monitored in homes and offices, combating them through the clear existing regulation. There are also penalties for those who violate the legal limits. However, in ventilation, the acoustic laws are not entirely clear, since the noise never becomes strident. But there are very large differences between enjoying noise-free ventilation or living in a situation with the annoying sounds of some old equipment indoors, and all of them affect our well-being.

Ventilation systems have always caused noise. Even the quietest ones and those that we do not hear are producing noise, as the spinning blades of a fan cannot avoid generating decibels. The most delicate cases are those of old air conditioning units, which can be very bothersome in any room.

As we mentioned in a previous article, to achieve silent ventilation we can use silent fans, installations with silent blocks -these are rubber pieces where the fans are mounted and that dampen noise- or even the use of ventilation boxes. But above all, the most important thing is to opt for a smart installation of the entire network.

This smart installation of the ventilation system should indicate where each fan is located and what power it uses. It should also consider whether the ducts connect with the outside or if the airflow is long or short.

In general terms, long air passages should be avoided, as well as excessive power. However, how do the factors that affect noise levels influence?

Normally, to have noise-free ventilation we must take into account that efficiency produces sound intensity. However, what generates more noise and acoustic pollution is the turning of the fan and its revolutions. So an important factor that will influence a lot is the size of the blades. The larger the fan, the less its blades need to rotate to provide the same airflow. Therefore, less energy will be needed. If, in addition, we install it inside a ventilation box we will further reduce the noise volume.
In the intelligent installation of the ventilation system that we have discussed, it is also necessary to consider that, in addition to the distance of the ventilation ducts, the passage location is also very important. For example, if ducts are installed in the floor, their vibrations do not transmit to the building structure. When they are between walls, they can be hidden to avoid acoustic pollution.

Since ducts are noise transmitters, they should be avoided as much as possible indoors. If that is impossible, they can have covering layers to ensure noise-free ventilation.

When planning the installation of a ventilation system, to enjoy acoustic insulation and avoid noise issues, it is necessary to plan everything in a very personalized and comprehensive manner.

Reduce acoustic pollution and noise-free ventilation

The current double-flow mechanical ventilation systems ensure greater acoustic comfort, as they avoid noise from air conditioning and offer comfort in the home and clean air with the windows closed, preventing acoustic pollution from the outside.

Being able to enjoy a noise-free experience at home is important for improving our well-being, which is why ventilation systems are becoming increasingly efficient and quieter. However, this is not the only problem of acoustic pollution, which should be controlled as much as possible. Especially now looking towards summer, when noise levels in homes and cities significantly increase:

• If you live in an area facing a main avenue or a busy street, try to keep the windows closed. Even if you live in an upper floor apartment, acoustic pollution from traffic reaches the top of buildings.
• The washing machine installation should preferably be in areas far from habitable rooms. It can even be installed outdoors if it is covered.
• Music or television should not be enjoyed at very high volumes whenever possible. Sometimes, it’s enough to improve the external elements we have mentioned not to have to turn the TV up high.
• Vacuum cleaners are better if they are energy efficient and do not cause much noise disturbance.