How to Control Vibration in HVAC Systems

Introduction

In modern commercial and industrial buildings, HVAC systems play a vital role in maintaining indoor comfort and air quality. However, they also introduce one of the most common challenges in building performance, i.e.. vibration.

Vibrations from HVAC equipment such as chillers, pumps, fans, air handling units (AHUs), and duct systems can propagate through the structure, resulting in equipment damage, increased noise, structural damage, and discomfort for occupants.

Effective vibration isolation is not an option, but it is critical for ensuring both occupant comfort and system efficiency. One of the most proven ways to achieve this is through Resistoflex Spring and Rubber Mounts, which are engineered specifically for HVAC applications.

In this article, we will explore how Resistoflex, specialised in spring and rubber isolation solutions which can help you to control vibration in HVAC systems and optimise your installation for long-term reliability.

The Impact of Uncontrolled Vibration in HVAC Systems

Without proper vibration control, HVAC systems can cause a range of operational issues:

• Increased Noise: Mechanical noise transmitted through floors, ceilings, and walls
• Structural Damage: Damage to building structures due to repeated stress
• Malfunctioning Equipment: Accelerated wear of rotating components
• Loss of Efficiency: Reduced system performance and energy inefficiency

Proper isolation solutions ensure that HVAC equipment operates smoothly, with minimal impact on the building or its occupants.

Why use Spring and Rubber Isolators to control Vibration?

Spring and Rubber Mounts provides adequate isolation that no single-material solution can match

• Springs provide excellent isolation at low frequencies, where structural resonance can occur.
• Rubber absorbs higher-frequency noise and transient shocks.

With the help of these technologies, you achieve broad-spectrum vibration isolation, covering both structure-borne vibration and airborne noise.

Proven HVAC Vibration Isolation Solutions by Resistoflex

Resistoflex offers a complete range of vibration isolation products, engineered to meet the demanding needs of modern HVAC systems. Let’s review their key characteristics:

Flexifloat Rubber Mounts

Flexifloat Rubber Mounts are compact, durable mounts ideal for low-to-medium speed HVAC equipment.

• Pumps
• Ventilation fans
• Light-duty HVAC units

• Efficient isolation of both vertical and horizontal vibration
• Space-saving design suitable for equipment retrofits

Fleximount Rubber Isolator (FM)

Fleximount Rubber Isolator (FM) offers high versatility across a wide load range.

• Compressors
• Fans
• Duct-mounted equipment

• Combination of vibration isolation and noise attenuation
• Suitable for a variety of HVAC system components

Spring & Rubber Hangers

Spring & Rubber Hangers are designed for the isolation of suspended/ceiling equipment and ductwork.

• Duct hangers
• Fan coil units
• Pipework suspension

• Dual-stage isolation: steel spring and rubber element
• Effective control of both low and high-frequency vibration
• Prevention of vibration transmission through ceiling structures

Turret Rubber Mounts

Turret Rubber Mounts are engineered for medium-duty HVAC equipment.

• Air handling units
• Pumps
• Packaged HVAC units

• Horizontal stability combined with vertical vibration isolation
• Long service life under dynamic loads

Enclosed Spring Mounts

Enclosed Spring Mounts provide superior isolation for large and heavy HVAC equipment.

• Chillers
• Cooling towers
• AHUs
• Industrial fans

• High-deflection steel spring housed within a durable enclosure
• Built-in levelling adjustment
• Stability under fluctuating operational loads

Open Spring Damper 2

Open Spring Damper 2 is designed for maximum flexibility in applications requiring large spring deflections.

• Large HVAC fans
• Heavy-duty industrial HVAC equipment

• Open spring design for optimal flexibility
• Effective damping for high-vibration applications
• Minimal restriction on spring movement, allowing greater isolation performance

How to Select the Right Vibration Isolation Solution

Choosing the correct isolation product depends on:

• Equipment weight and dimensions
• Type of vibration (low-frequency, high-frequency, impact)
• Equipment mounting (floor-mounted vs. suspended)
• Building structural characteristics

Note: Selecting an inappropriate mount can lead to either underperformance (vibration not properly controlled) or overdesign (unnecessary cost and complexity).

Resistoflex team is available to support system designers, MEP consultants, and HVAC contractors in selecting the optimal solution for each application.

Conclusion

Vibration control in HVAC systems is a critical factor in ensuring long-term equipment performance, energy efficiency, and building comfort.

Resistoflex offers a proven & comprehensive range of Spring and Rubber Mounts that address the diverse challenges faced in HVAC vibration isolation. Whether you need to isolate a large chiller, a suspended duct system, or a compact pump, Resistoflex has a tailored solution to meet your project requirements.

If you are looking to optimise the vibration performance of your HVAC installation:

Enquire Now — and connect with our engineering team for expert guidance.