A Web-Based Tool for Visualizing Sound Propagation from Air-to-Water Heat Pumps Using a Map Interface
Air-to-water heat pumps are a key technology in the transition to low-carbon heating systems, but their outdoor units can emit significant noise, raising concerns about acoustic comfort in residential areas. To reduce residents’ uncertainty and concern regarding noise and to enable sound propagation assessments for residential heat pump planning a web-based tool has been developed as part of IEA HPT TCP Annex 63: “Placement Impact on Heat Pump Acoustics” This tool builds upon a 2D version previously developed by the Danish partner DTI during IEA HPT TCP Annex 51, originally created for the Danish Energy Agency. The enhanced platform allows users to select different heat pump models, position them in real-world locations using geospatial data, and assess the resulting sound pressure levels and noise propagation in the surrounding environment through an interactive map interface. This paper presents the design, functionality, and application of the tool, as well as its potential for improving acoustic planning in residential areas.