General Assist Customer Information
Unit dB Noise Reading Clarification
Why a measured sound level may differ from the published specification
A sound reading taken in a home or workplace may be higher or lower than the value shown in the product specifications. This does not automatically indicate a fault. Published sound levels are established under defined test conditions, while an installed system operates in a real environment with different acoustics, distances and operating loads.
1. Why the measured dB reading can be different
The sound level listed for an air conditioner is measured using a defined test method and specified operating conditions. A reading taken after installation may differ for several reasons:
| Factor | How it can affect the reading |
|---|---|
| Operating conditions | When the system is working harder, such as during very hot or cold weather, the compressor and fans may operate at a higher capacity and produce more sound. |
| Fan speed and operating mode | Sound levels vary with fan speed and operating mode. The published figure must be compared with the same operating condition shown in the relevant product data. |
| Room or site acoustics | Walls, ceilings, floors, fences and other nearby surfaces can reflect sound. Hard or enclosed spaces may make the unit appear louder than it would in an open test environment. |
| Measurement distance and position | A reading taken closer to the unit, near an air outlet, beside a wall or at a different height can be higher than a reading taken at the specified test position. |
| Background noise | Traffic, appliances, wind, people and other equipment can contribute to the measured result. |
| Measuring equipment | Professional sound-level meters must be correctly configured and calibrated. Mobile phone applications may be useful as a general indication but are not suitable for confirming compliance with a published specification. |
2. Understanding sound power and sound pressure
Sound power level (Lw)
Sound power represents the total acoustic energy produced by the equipment. It is a characteristic of the sound source and is determined using a standardised test method.
Sound power represents the total acoustic energy produced by the equipment. It is a characteristic of the sound source and is determined using a standardised test method.
Sound pressure level (Lp)
Sound pressure is the sound measured at a particular location. It changes with distance, room or site conditions, surrounding surfaces and background noise.
Sound pressure is the sound measured at a particular location. It changes with distance, room or site conditions, surrounding surfaces and background noise.
Important: Product literature may list sound pressure, sound power, or both. These values are not directly interchangeable. Always check the heading, operating condition and measurement notes in the specification for the applicable model.
3. What this means for the installed unit
A difference between an on-site reading and a published sound level does not, by itself, confirm that the air conditioner is faulty. A meaningful comparison requires the unit to be assessed under operating and measurement conditions that align with the applicable specification.
Normal sound can also change as the system adjusts its capacity, starts or stops, changes fan speed, performs a defrost cycle, or responds to the selected temperature.
4. When further assessment may be required
Contact the installer or our Customer Care team when the sound:
- has suddenly changed from the unit's normal operation;
- includes unusual grinding, scraping, rattling or repeated impact noises;
- is accompanied by reduced heating or cooling performance, an error code or abnormal vibration; or
- remains excessive after the installation, mounting and surrounding clearances have been checked.
Do not remove covers or attempt internal adjustments. Inspection and repair work must be completed by an appropriately licensed air-conditioning technician.
5. Summary
- Published sound levels are established under defined test conditions.
- On-site readings are influenced by operating load, fan speed, distance, acoustics, background noise and measuring equipment.
- Sound power and sound pressure are different measurements and should not be compared as though they are the same.
- A different on-site reading does not automatically indicate a product fault.
We're here to help
For further assistance regarding the sound level of your air conditioner, please contact our Customer Care team with the model number, installation details and a description of the sound being experienced.
For further assistance regarding the sound level of your air conditioner, please contact our Customer Care team with the model number, installation details and a description of the sound being experienced.