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Sound Check

This guide applies to the heatpunk.co.uk version of Heatpunk. The information provided here may not be accurate for heatpunk.ie.

The sound check feature is part of the Heat Pump task and helps determines whether the planned installation position will generate excessive noise that could disturb neighbouring properties. The results of the sound check will be displayed in the customer proposal and technical reports. 

Getting started

When you create a new project you will be prompted to complete the sound check when you navigate to the heat pump task.

  • Choose the assessment method suitable for your project
  • Input the details about the heat pump position and assessment points
  • Click next to move on to select a heat pump and hot water cylinder
  • The heat pump overview page will load and the results of the sound check will be displayed on the left hand side of the page below the heat pump and cylinder details.
  • To edit the details of the sound check click on the pencil icon.

Information about the available calculation methods

Make sure you use the appropriate assessment method. There are currently two sound assessment calculation methods published by MCS. Please ensure you use the calculation method that is suitable for the location of the property.

There are currently two sound assessment calculation methods published by MCS. England's permitted development regulations now require you to use the 2025 calculation method which is based on MCS 020 a). Other UK nations may still require you to use the legacy calculation method based on MCS 020 if they have not adopted the newer calculation method. When you start the sound check for your project you can choose between the newer 2025 calculation method or the legacy calculation method.

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To comply with MCS 020 a), the calculated noise level at each assessment position must be below 37 dB. Under MCS 020 a), it is vital to include multiple assessment positions, as more distant locations without a barrier may experience higher noise levels than closer positions that are shielded.

To comply with the legacy MCS 020 standard, the noise level at a single assessment position must be below 42 dB. Although MCS 020 is being phased out, it may be remain appropriate to use in some UK nations.

Using the 2025 calculation method - MCS 020 a)

  • In order to comply with the newer MCS 020 a) standards, start by selecting the 2025 calculation method
  • Select the number of reflective surfaces next to the heat pump. 
  • Add details for the first assessment position, including the description, distance and details of any barriers.
  • Add additional assessment positions by clicking on the Add position button.
  • View each of the assessment positions using the navigation tabs
  • Remove any positions you no longer need using the delete button.
  • Click the confirm button to view the sound check results

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Using the legacy calculation method - MCS 020

  • In order to comply with the previous MCS 020 standards, select the legacy calculation method.
  • Add details for the assessment position, including the description, distance, number of reflective surfaces and details of any barriers.
  • Click the confirm button to view the sound check results.

 

 

 

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