The heat pump market shows a consistently strong growth in numbers and in heat production. This noise requirement will help the heat pump in its further ascent, and also accelerate the development of new quieter heat pumps. The expectation is that sales will continue to grow in the coming time.

The determination method for the new noise requirements is laid down in the Building Decree 2012 (Government Gazette 2020, 62676) which will come into effect simultaneously. This determination method is a noise measurement on site. However, based on acoustic calculations, it can be established in advance that the noise requirement is met. For these calculations, the Ministry of BZK has had a calculation tool (ODS file) prepared along with a corresponding manual. The noise requirements do not apply to the heat pump itself (from the factory), but to an installation placed at a home. The heat pump itself generally does not meet the 40 dB requirement. This means that the installation must be placed at a sufficient distance from the neighbors or must be shielded so that the 40 dB is not exceeded.

When installing a heat pump, it is also important that the home is sufficiently insulated. The standard for housing insulation helps with this. This standard indicates when the house is well enough insulated to switch to another heat source, such as heat pumps. Additionally, the standard provides insight into the amount of ventilation still needed in the home. With the standard, homeowners and landlords can prepare their homes for the future, where homes will be heated without natural gas.