Reducing noise pollution caused by air conditioners through good planning and design

The careful selection of where an air conditioner is installed can significantly reduce its potential for noise pollution.

It is illegal for Victorian residents to cause unreasonable noise, including noise from air conditioners. If an air conditioner is noisy or installed in an inappropriate location, it can cause issues between neighbours and the homeowner.

There are also times during the night when you are not permitted to operate an air conditioner if a neighbour can hear it in their home. If a local council receives a complaint that an air conditioner is causing unreasonable noise, they can direct it to be relocated or switched off.

Practitioners installing air conditioners are urged to carefully consider these factors before installing a new air conditioner.

Consumers are encouraged to ensure that they have engaged an appropriately registered or licensed practitioner by using the VBA’s find a practitioner tool, and be sure to ask their practitioner about noise considerations before installing an air conditioner.

For more information and advice, please contact the Plumbing Technical Advice line on 1300 815 127 or via email.