Trouble in Ratzeburg: Residents fear noise from new heat pumps!

Trouble in Ratzeburg: Residents fear noise from new heat pumps!

There is currently plenty of material for discussion in picturesque Ratzeburg. Residents, like Torsten Krug, are unsettled by the recently installed 13 heat pumps, which are blatantly standing on a lawn in front of their balcony. “There’s something going on,” isn’t just the thought of Krug, who comes from the heating industry and expresses concerns about the noise level. Many residents were not informed about the installation in advance, which further heated up their tempers. There are also five other heat pumps on the opposite side of the house, which could potentially increase the noise situation, reports [ln-online.de].

A restless mood is spreading, especially because the tenants' inquiries to the MVGM housing management company have not yet received a clear answer. This diffuse information situation leads to even more uncertainty among neighbors. Paul Tech AG, which is responsible for the installation, sees the conversion to climate-neutral heat supply as a necessary step because the costs for gas and oil are rising rapidly. The big advantage? According to Paul Tech, the new heat pumps should not cause any additional costs for tenants because the electricity is billed via a separate house connection.

A look at heat pump technology

Heat pumps are considered an attractive option for heating modernization, especially in Ratzeburg, where many homeowners hesitate to replace old boilers. Although some heaters still work well, they are usually inefficient, which Energy Experts explains well. The Building Energy Act (GEG) regulates which heating systems are permitted, and heat pumps are often viewed as the best solution to meet the requirements. These devices are particularly popular because they are environmentally friendly and can be cost-effective over the years.

Air-water heat pumps in particular are very popular and work even in sub-zero temperatures. They offer a practical solution for many old buildings in Ratzeburg. Before installation, it is advisable to check the structural requirements and possibly seek advice from an energy consultant. Sound insulation and associated problems are also increasingly coming into focus. Complaints about deeper noises, which often come from such pumps, are increasing because the noises are perceived as annoying - despite compliance with legal limits - according to a study by the energy consultant.

Sound insulation in the planning

When setting up heat pumps, sound insulation should also be carefully considered in advance, in addition to the technical feasibility. Experts recommend choosing the location so that noise emissions are minimized. There are many useful tips on how to combine noise and privacy protection. This includes regulating the distance to walls and sound-conducting floors as well as the use of special soundproof hoods. In this way, the hum that can come from the systems can be contained. Ideally, the air flow is also directed so that it does not blow directly towards the neighbors, which could significantly reduce noise pollution.

Paul Tech AG plans to inform residents about the next steps in the next few weeks. But the clear apology for the poor communication leaves many residents skeptical. Whether things will get better with future installations remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the discussion about the use of heat pumps in Ratzeburg is far from over.