Heat Pump Noise Protection
New Regulations & Financing 2026
Understand new dB(A) limits from February - Check impact on funding - Explore noise protection solutions & costs - Plan your financing
What Changes from February 2026?
With the updated regulations of the TA Laerm (Technical Instructions on Noise Abatement), stricter noise protection requirements for heat pumps come into effect from February 2026. These changes affect all newly installed heat pump outdoor units and have direct implications for equipment selection and funding eligibility.
The new limits are designed to prevent conflicts between neighbors and increase acceptance of heat pump technology in densely populated residential areas. For you as a property owner, this means: You should consider noise protection requirements early in your heat pump installation planning.
What is Changing
- Mandatory sound power level limits
- Tiered values based on distance to property boundary
- Stricter nighttime regulations (10 PM - 6 AM)
- Proof required with funding application
What Remains the Same
- BEG funding rates up to 70% continue
- Modern devices often meet the limits
- Noise protection solutions are eligible for funding
- Indoor installation avoids outdoor noise issues
The New dB(A) Limits in Detail
Sound Power Level Limits by Distance
| Distance to Property Boundary | Max. Sound Power (Day) | Max. Sound Power (Night) | Typical Situation |
|---|---|---|---|
| More than 3 meters | 70 dB(A) | 55 dB(A) | Detached houses, large properties |
| 1 to 3 meters | 65 dB(A) | 50 dB(A) | Townhouses, medium properties |
| Less than 1 meter | 60 dB(A) | 45 dB(A) | Semi-detached houses, dense construction |
Note: The sound power level is the value in the product data sheet. The sound pressure level at the receiving location is approximately 10-15 dB(A) lower.
Important: Consider Night Reduction
Between 10 PM and 6 AM, significantly stricter limits apply. Many heat pumps have a night mode with reduced output. Check whether this mode meets the nighttime values without compromising your heating needs.
How to Read Manufacturer Specifications Correctly
Sound Power Level (LWA)
The value specified in the data sheet in dB(A). This is the total sound energy emitted by the device. This value must be compared with the new limits.
Sound Pressure Level (LpA)
The level measured at a specific distance (usually 1m). This is typically 10-15 dB(A) lower than the sound power level.
Impact on BEG Funding
No Funding Without Noise Protection Proof
From February 2026, you must prove that your planned heat pump meets the noise protection limits when applying for BEG funding. Heat pumps that exceed the limits are not eligible for funding.
Basic Funding
Remains unchanged for all eligible heat pumps
Max. Bonuses
Income, climate, and efficiency bonuses still available
Noise Protection Eligible
Noise protection measures are part of eligible costs
What This Means for Your Funding Application
- 1Before applying: Check the product data sheet for the sound power level
- 2Measure distance: Determine the shortest distance to the property boundary
- 3Compare limits: Ensure the dB(A) value is below the permitted limit
- 4Plan noise protection: If necessary, include noise protection measures in the total costs
Noise Protection Solutions Overview
Sound Enclosure / Noise Protection Housing
Most Cost-Effective Solution | 500-1,500 euros
Advantages
- Easy retrofit possible
- No modification to the device needed
- Eligible for funding as part of installation
Disadvantages
- Visual impact
- May complicate maintenance access
- Ventilation must be ensured
Indoor Installation (Basement/Utility Room)
Optimal Solution with Space | +2,000-5,000 euros
Advantages
- Noise protection limits not an issue
- Protection from weather and vandalism
- Easier maintenance
Disadvantages
- Space requirement (approx. 4-6 sqm)
- Air ducts to outside required
- Higher installation costs
Split Heat Pump
Compressor Inside, Evaporator Outside | +1,000-3,000 euros
Advantages
- Quieter outdoor unit
- More flexible installation options
- Compressor noise stays indoors
Disadvantages
- Refrigerant lines required
- More complex installation
- Indoor unit requires space
Quiet Monoblock Models
High-Quality Devices with Optimized Acoustics | +3,000-8,000 euros
Advantages
- Often meets even the strictest limits
- No additional measures needed
- Often higher efficiency
Disadvantages
- Higher purchase costs
- Not all manufacturers offer quiet models
- Longer delivery times possible
Additional Costs and Financing
Noise Protection Costs Overview
| Measure | Cost (incl. Installation) | Noise Reduction | Funding Eligible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sound Enclosure | 500 - 800 euros | 3-5 dB(A) | Yes |
| Premium Sound Enclosure | 1,000 - 1,500 euros | 8-10 dB(A) | Yes |
| Vibration Dampers | 100 - 300 euros | 2-3 dB(A) | Yes |
| Sound Barrier Wall | 800 - 2,000 euros | 5-10 dB(A) | Yes |
| Indoor Installation (Conversion) | 2,000 - 5,000 euros | Complete | Yes |
| Upgrade to Quiet Model | 3,000 - 8,000 euros | 10-15 dB(A) | Yes |
Example Calculation: With Noise Protection
After Funding (50%)
Renovation Loan (4.49% eff., 60 months):
Tip: Include Noise Protection Costs in Financing
Noise protection measures are eligible for funding as part of the heating modernization. They minimally increase total costs but can make the difference between funding eligibility and rejection. Include these costs from the start.
Checklist: Does Your Heat Pump Meet Requirements?
Step-by-Step Verification
Obtain Product Data Sheet
Request the technical data sheet from the manufacturer or installer. Look for the sound power level (LWA) in dB(A).
Determine Installation Location
Mark the planned location for the outdoor unit. Measure the shortest distance to the property boundary.
Identify Applicable Limit
Read the permissible limit based on distance: >3m = 70 dB(A), 1-3m = 65 dB(A), <1m = 60 dB(A)
Perform Comparison
Compare your heat pump sound power level with the permissible limit.
If Exceeded: Review Solutions
If the limit is exceeded: Sound enclosure, different location, quieter model, or indoor installation?
Recommendation: Consult an Energy Advisor
A certified energy consultant can evaluate the noise protection situation on-site and provide legally sound recommendations. Energy consulting is subsidized up to 80% (max. 1,300 euros).
Calculate Heat Pump Financing
Compare renovation loans from various providers
Advertisement - We receive a commission on contract conclusion. This does not affect the neutrality of our comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions About Heat Pump Noise Protection
The new noise protection requirements take effect from February 2026. They apply to all newly installed heat pump outdoor units and are part of the updated TA Laerm (Technical Instructions on Noise Abatement).
The limits depend on the distance to the property boundary: More than 3 meters allows 70 dB(A), 1-3 meters allows 65 dB(A), and less than 1 meter only permits 60 dB(A) sound power level.
Yes, BEG funding requires compliance with all legal requirements. A heat pump that exceeds the new noise protection limits cannot be funded. Check the manufacturer sound power specifications before purchasing.
A professional sound enclosure costs between 500 and 1,500 euros depending on size and insulation quality. Installation costs add approximately 200-400 euros. These costs are eligible for BEG funding.
Yes, with indoor installation the outdoor unit (evaporator) is smaller and quieter. Split units move the compressor indoors, which can reduce outdoor noise emissions by 5-10 dB(A). Both options are particularly recommended for narrow properties.
Check the manufacturer product data sheet for the sound power level in dB(A). Measure the distance to your property boundary and compare with the limits (60/65/70 dB(A)). For borderline cases, consult an acoustics expert or energy consultant.
More Loan Guides
Sources and References
- •
- •
- •
- •