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New split AC System impact on sound.

I need to purchase a New split ac System (ie air handler in attic, Compressor outside). As with anything in this world so many complexities and my focus is to make things quiet when I’m listening to things.

Unfortunately, the compressor will be located outside of the room of my equipment. And I could choose a one stage or a variable stage heat pump that might be quieter. Anyone have recent experience and thoughts on how best to proceed for a moderately humid Area in the north east.

The problem with newer systems that I see is that the cooling coils don’t get as cold as they used to. Older R22 freon Systems which I currently have were more favorable toward reducing humidity in the home and the newer more environmentally friendly Freon varieties such as 410 and the newest 454b keep the coolant coil a little warmer which isn’t the greatest.

 

emergingsoul
tomaswv
243 posts
 

I have a similar system with the compressor outside my listening room.  The one thing I regret is not having insulators put between the compressor and the concrete pad on which it sits. That said, when I am listening critically I turn the fan to auto and turn the temp up/down so the ac/heat stays  off for a couple of hours. I do most of my listening in early morning with my coffee, so often times the compressor isn’t on anyway. If it s on and I’m listening g to jazz or rock it’s generally ok, but for classical or critical listening it has to be off. 

ghdprentice
7,494 posts
 

You are not getting a heat pump? New heat pumps are an order of magnitude quieter than they used to be. Also, you can put sound absorption panels either outside or inside. I use a variable speed air handler with variable heat pump... so much of the time it is on really low. All this makes sense. Look at specs when you choose your system. There is a lot of difference in how much sound they make. 

emergingsoul OP
1,240 posts
 

@ghdprentice

Actually I’m looking at a bosch heat pump three tons. Concern I have is the complexity of future maintenance and ability to eliminate humidity when it’s on lower speeds. Although a lot depends upon the installation which can make or break the outcome. I do hear the freon cooling point can be adjusted lower to mitigate this problem so that fan speed can be reduced which enhances dehumidification effectiveness. But I have heard these units do have issues with humidity although the settings might be able to overcome this.

 

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