Project Overview
In a mixed-use residential and administrative building in Varna, Bulgaria, noise from four chillers located in the shared yard was disturbing both residents and workers.
Positioned only 13 metres below the windows of residential flats and 10 metres from a neighbouring administrative building, the chillers were emitting noise levels of up to 80 dB at the source and 75 dB at the windows.
DECIBEL was brought in to engineer and deliver a targeted noise control solution that would reduce this disruption significantly.
Challenge
The key challenge was to reduce high-intensity chiller noise affecting two separate noise-sensitive zones within a dense urban context.
The soundproofing design had to allow for unobstructed airflow from the chiller ventilators while ensuring that no acoustic “leak” would compromise the effectiveness of the treatment.
Scope of Work
- Acoustic assessment and noise measurements at both residential and administrative façades
- Design of a soundproofing structure using metal perforated acoustic panels
- Installation of 50 mm thick sound-absorbing lining around and above the chiller units
- Addition of 300 mm sound-absorbing acoustic wings to maintain airflow without noise leakage
Solution
DECIBEL constructed a soundproof enclosure with specialised acoustic panels, surrounding the chillers on all sides, including overhead.
To maintain ventilation efficiency, sound-absorbing wings were added above the chillers, ensuring airflow from the units remained uninterrupted while preventing acoustic escape of noise.
Result
Following installation, noise levels dropped to 60 dB at both the residential and administrative façades, a significant 50% reduction. The project successfully restored acoustic comfort to the building’s occupants without disrupting the mechanical functionality of the chillers.
Urban noise from HVAC and chiller units is an increasing concern in dense mixed-use developments. Professional soundproofing must balance regulatory requirements, resident wellbeing, and the operational integrity of the machinery.
This project illustrates how custom-engineered solutions can meet all three demands in one coherent installation.
Looking to reduce mechanical noise in your building? Contact DECIBEL for tailored soundproofing solutions that preserve both comfort and functionality.
