Residential air conditioners can contribute to an increasing level of environmental noise in our communities, and sometimes can cause a disturbance to neighbours.
When choosing an air conditioner, there are many considerations that will have an impact on noise. Serious thought must be given to where external components of the air conditioner are to be installed, the size of the area to be cooled or heated, and the size and number of air conditioners required. Further information can be found in the Residential Best Practice Guideline (Western Australia).
Installers also have an obligation to ensure that any equipment installed does not emit unreasonable noise.
The permitted noise levels (assigned levels) for air conditioners can be quite low, particularly at night. If you are planning to buy an air conditioner, it should not be assumed that if it is described as quiet, or complies with an Australian Standard, that it will comply with the assigned levels.
Noisy Air Conditioners
If a neighbour’s air conditioner is causing a noise disturbance, the City can carry out a noise assessment. Complaints can be lodged using the online form.
Should it be determined that an air conditioner does not meet the assigned levels, the City may request modifications to occur, servicing to be carried out, or may place restrictions on the use of the air conditioner.