06 August 2025
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Hope Denton, Acoustic Solutions Specialist at Jacksons Fencing, explores the future of air source heat pumps and how noise management is key to ensuring their successful, sustainable adoption across the UK.
As the UK accelerates its effort to meet its net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050, air source heat pumps (ASHPs) are poised to play a crucial role in the decarbonisation of heating. These energy-efficient systems, which extract heat from the ambient air and transfer it indoors, represent a major shift away from fossil fuel-based boilers and towards more sustainable, low-carbon alternatives.
With government targets aiming for 600,000 ASHP installations annually by 2028, and global forecasts suggesting that ASHPs could meet 20% of the world’s heating demand by 2030, their importance in the green energy transition is rapidly growing. The technology also complements other renewable solutions like solar panels and improved insulation, forming part of a whole-home approach to energy efficiency.
Real application: Gilbourne Road, Greenwich
One example of ASHPs being integrated into sustainable development is the Gilbourne Road housing project in Greenwich, where 15 net-zero council homes have been built using cutting-edge energy-efficient technologies and sustainable materials. Each home includes solar panels, triple glazing, and air source heat pumps, contributing to low running costs and minimal maintenance.
However, like many urban projects, the development faced a challenge: balancing green space requirements with the practical needs of infrastructure such as heat pumps and fencing. Planning regulations demanded the inclusion of trees and vegetation within Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS), necessitating fencing solutions that could offer security without hindering urban greening efforts.
Jacksons Fencing provided a solution which offered clear boundary definition while supporting plant growth and preserving visual aesthetics. Just as the railings balanced form, function, and sustainability, managing ASHP noise in such developments requires a similarly thoughtful approach.
The noise challenge of ASHPs
Despite their advantages, the noise generated by external ASHP units can be a concern, especially in densely populated areas. The low-frequency hum or whooshing noise may disrupt residents and neighbours, particularly during colder months when heat pumps work harder and operate more loudly.
With more than 100,000 UK customers on waiting lists for ASHP installations, ensuring positive public perception is essential. Poorly managed noise could not only reduce satisfaction but also spark community resistance, slowing the technology’s broader rollout. In residential developments like Gilbourne Road, managing these challenges becomes vital to the long-term success and community acceptance of such technologies.
Managing noise concerns through design
The fencing is at the forefront of helping manage noise concerns associated with ASHP installations; addressing noise from the outset of the planning process is key. Involving a noise consultant or acoustician early in the design phase ensures that heat pumps are installed in optimal locations, and that noise reduction strategies are incorporated into the project design. One such strategy is the use of acoustic enclosures.
The noise challenge
While ASHPs are a suitable heating solution, the operational noise can create friction between users and neighbours. External units produce a low-frequency hum or whooshing sound, which can be disruptive in noise sensitive areas. Although modern ASHPs are quieter than older models, noise levels can still be problematic, especially when installed close to residential properties. As the demand for ASHPs continues to expand, these concerns must be addressed to avoid resistance from local communities that could slow the technology’s adoption.
Strategic design and planning
Effective noise management begins with strategic planning. Collaborating with a noise consultant or acoustician helps assess site conditions and determine the best locations for heat pump units. This careful planning can ensure noise levels remain manageable and avoid negative impacts on neighbours.
Acoustic enclosures are one of the most effective noise reduction solutions. These structures are designed to reduce sound transmission, ensuring quieter operation. Acoustic enclosures are made from a variety of materials, such as timber, and can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each installation. They not only reduce noise but also offer additional benefits that can improve the overall quality of life for businesses and homeowners.
What is an acoustic enclosure?
An acoustic enclosure is a structure built around a noise source to ‘trap’ the noise it produces. Typically, these enclosures feature walls made of noise-absorbing materials and a gate for access. In some cases, one side of the enclosure may be left open to prevent the creation of an echo chamber, which could amplify noise. This open side also ensures proper airflow to the heat pump, which is crucial for efficient operation.
Some enclosures are designed with louvre features to allow for airflow while still reducing noise, though this may be more challenging and expensive with materials other than timber. Others such as, Jacksons Fencing supplies acoustic enclosures are in kit form, which allows for an airtight fit onsite and provides a cost-effective solution compared to modular systems.
The benefits of acoustic enclosures
Beyond noise reduction, acoustic enclosures offer several additional advantages. In terms of aesthetics, these enclosures can be designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment, reducing the visual impact of the ASHP units. Enclosures can be designed in various shapes - square, rectangular, or even slightly curved - to suit the specific requirements of the installation site.
Beyond their noise-reducing capabilities, acoustic enclosures also provide increased security. Given the high cost of ASHPs, protecting these units from potential vandalism or tampering is essential. Durable enclosures, made from robust materials such as timber, can help deter vandalism and protect the long-term functionality of the system.
They can also act as a visual screen, helping to maintain a consistent and uncluttered appearance in landscaped or heritage-sensitive areas, which is an important consideration in many urban planning proposals.
Secure noise reduction
Noise reduction strategies such as thoughtful placement and acoustic treatments can make a significant difference, sometimes reducing the perceived noise from 60 dB by half or more. The difference is particularly noticeable in colder weather when ASHPs work harder to extract heat, often resulting in increased noise levels. Even a 10dB reduction in noise is perceived as halving the sound, making acoustic enclosures a highly effective solution for managing ASHP noise.
As the demand for air source heat pumps continues to grow, addressing noise concerns will be crucial to ensuring their successful adoption. By incorporating noise management strategies early in the design process and using solutions like acoustic enclosures, it’s possible to balance the environmental benefits of ASHPs with the need for quiet and harmonious living spaces. This approach will help pave the way for widespread use of this sustainable technology, contributing to the UK’s ambitious net-zero goals.
