Minimize Hotel Noise Complaints by Using New Soundproofing Methods
There are all types of noise intrusions in hotels – from other guests to nearby roadways and airport noise. However, one noise is persistent above all others in hotels – HVAC noise! Often times the air conditioners are directly in the room, and cycled compressors or blower fan noise can disrupt sleep cycles and anger hotel guests.
One Hotel Property Manager called Commercial Acoustics and asked for help lowering the noise level from AC units in hotel rooms. We sent an acoustical consultant with calibrated equipment to measure the noise source, and propose a list of solutions. Due to the unique nature of this job, a number of potential solutions existed, so we installed and tested each one individually.
See a List of Hotel Soundproofing Case Studies Here
ALSO: Tips for Reducing Hotel Noise Complaints
A number of independent variables were checked, including:
- Thickness of Absorptive Fiberglass
- Thickness and density of Soundproofing MLV
- Location and mounting method of each Product
Ultimately, the use of Mass Loaded Vinyl along the top of the louvered door, along with fiberglass panel insulation at the bottom, forced air through the absorptive material and elongated the path of the noisy fan to the guests. This resulted in a decrease of 7dBA outside the HVAC door, and 8 dBA at the guests pillow.
Hotel Soundproofing Results
By coordinating consulting tools and knowledge with soundproofing and sound absorbing materials, Commercial Acoustics was able to reduce the noise in the hotel guest room, resulting in fewer noise complaints and higher customer satisfaction. Rather than needing to replace the HVAC units, the existing Air Conditioners were able to be treated on site. The result allowed the hotel operator to save approximately $800 per unit, and several months of installation and refurbishment. Most importantly, the guest complaints reduced considerably, allowing the hotel to regain its online reputation.
