In HVAC systems, noise management is essential not only for comfort but also for functionality and environmental harmony. On a recent episode of "The Engineers HVAC Podcast," host Tony Mormino and Dr. Sonic, aka Gary Madaras, discussed common acoustic pitfalls in HVAC design and how to avoid them. Here are the top five "gotchas" in HVAC acoustics, offering practical insights for engineers, contractors, and builders.
Not Including Equipment Sound Data in Documents: One of the most common mistakes in HVAC design is the omission of sound data for equipment in documentation. Sound power levels and pressure levels should be specified in equipment schedules or specifications to ensure that any potential substitutions during the build comply with the noise control designs. This foresight can prevent compliance issues and costly post-installation modifications.
Making Rooms Too Quiet: Contrary to popular belief, making a room too quiet can be problematic. Spaces that are too silent worsen the impact of transient noises, disrupting the intended peaceful environment. Instead, designers should aim for a balance, ensuring enough ambient sound to mask intermittent noises, thus maintaining a comfortable acoustic atmosphere.
Crosstalk Through Ducts: Crosstalk occurs when sound travels between spaces via ductwork, compromising privacy and quietness. To mitigate this, HVAC systems should be designed to minimize shared duct pathways between different rooms or use sound-attenuating materials within the ducts. This is especially crucial in settings requiring confidentiality or focused concentration.
Air Velocities That Are Too Fast: High air velocities in ducts can lead to increased noise levels, which is often overlooked in the rush to meet other design criteria such as energy efficiency or compact spacing. Adhering to recommended air velocity standards from sources like ASHRAE can significantly reduce noise problems without compromising system performance.
Using Return Air Plenums Improperly: While return air plenums can be cost-effective by eliminating the need for return ducts, they can also inadvertently act as conduits for noise, spreading it throughout a building. To avoid this, it's essential to design return pathways that minimize noise transmission or use lined ducts where appropriate to reduce sound transfer.
Addressing these "gotchas" can greatly improve the acoustic quality of any space impacted by HVAC systems. Whether designing or retrofitting, mindful noise control leads to a more comfortable environment. Remember, good acoustic design is as crucial as the mechanical aspects of your HVAC system.
You can listen to the live interview with Dr. Sonic on The Engineers HVAC Podcast.
Available on all podcast platforms.
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