Dear [Customer's Name],


I hope this email finds you well. Thank you for reaching out regarding the DB (decibel) reading of your air conditioner. I’d like to clarify why the DB reading may be higher than the unit's DB rating and also explain the difference between sound pressure and sound power. 




Why the DB Reading May Be Higher Than the DB Rating

The DB rating listed for your air conditioner is measured under controlled conditions, typically in a quiet laboratory environment. This rating reflects the unit’s sound level under optimal conditions, often at its lowest setting. When the unit operates in your space, several factors may cause the DB reading to be higher:

  1. Operating Conditions: The unit might be running at higher speeds, especially when cooling demand is high (e.g., on a hot day), which can increase the sound level.

  2. Ambient Environment: Hard surfaces and the shape of the room can reflect and amplify sound, increasing the perceived noise level.

  3. Distance from the Unit: DB ratings are usually measured at a standard distance. Standing closer to the unit than this specified distance can result in a higher reading. 




Understanding the Difference Between Sound Pressure and Sound Power

To provide a more comprehensive understanding, it's important to differentiate between sound pressure and sound power:

  • Sound Power (Lw): This is the total amount of sound energy emitted by the air conditioner, measured in decibels (dB). Sound power is an inherent characteristic of the unit, independent of its environment. It represents the noise level that the unit is capable of producing, and it is typically measured in a controlled setting.

  • Sound Pressure (Lp): This is the perceived sound level at a specific point, such as where you are located when measuring the noise. Sound pressure is influenced by the environment around the unit, including the distance from the source, obstacles, and room acoustics. It can vary depending on these factors, which is why the DB reading you measure might differ from the DB rating listed. 




In short, sound power is the source's capacity to emit noise, while sound pressure is what you hear, depending on your proximity and the environment.

If you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!