Room noise is the number one complaint from hotel guests. Guestroom HVAC systems can cause high levels of guestroom noise. So, today I present one very important—yet often overlooked—product difference between PTACs, VTACs, and VRF: guestroom noise.
There are two primary causes of noise:
1. Sound from the Unit
- This is the most obvious noise contributor to the actual sound level that the unit produces and is heard from within the guestroom.
- Noise levels are measured and compared using the decibel (dBA) scale. A higher dBA corresponds to a higher noise level.
- See below decibel scale for reference.
2. Sound through the Unit
- Outdoor noise pollution transfers into guestrooms by traveling through the exterior building wall via any areas vulnerable to sound penetration.
- This makes HVAC exterior grille on the exterior wall of the guestroom the main vulnerable spot.
- Noise transfer levels are measured and compared using the STC (sound transmission class) scale. A higher STC corresponds to better sound insulation. See below STC scale for reference.
- For more urban or high noise environments, this consideration remains vital for reducing sound pollution.
For controlling unwanted hotel noise, I present below a quick summary of how these three systems compare.
PTAC
Sound from Unit
- PTACs typically have a dBA level ranging from 46 to 61 depending on the model quality. (Note the decibel scale above for approximate sound level).
- These numbers can be much higher if the unit is not properly cleaned and maintained.
Sound Rating through Unit
- PTAC assemblies typically have an STC rating of around 28.
- Some manufacturers have an optional STC damper that can be added to the unit to increase this to an STC of around 31.
- The noise reduction (the inside-outside sound level difference) of exterior walls is about 25-30 dBA, which means sound levels inside the guestroom during an outside 80 dBA event might be as high as 50 dBA.
VTAC
Sound from Unit
- Typically, VTACs have a dBA level ranging from 58 to 65.
- This noise level is reduced by the fact that the unit is located in a closet with an STC rating of 60 which will dampen this noise significantly in the guestroom.
- These numbers can be much higher if the unit is not properly cleaned and maintained.
Sound Rating through Unit
- Typically, VTAC assemblies, including the closet, have an STC rating of around 57.
VRF (Fan Coil Units)
Sound from Unit
- Fan coil units typically have a sound level around 23-30 dBA.
- This level is reduced since the unit is located in a ceiling with an STC rating of typically 50 or more.
Sound Rating through Unit
- One major benefit of VRF systems is the absence of exterior grille.
- No exterior grille means that no outside noise enters the guestroom via the HVAC system.
- This can be a major benefit for sites with sound issues (e.g., airport, interstate, downtown, urban sites).
Guestroom noise significantly impacts the overall guest experience and should not be overlooked. With decades of experience, our expert team evaluates the unique location and other factors such as franchise and budget to determine a good HVAC system for your hotel. Our vast vendor network renders us a wide range of products to choose from.
Feel free to reach out with your questions!
Thank you,
