Soundproofing an Indoor Pool

American University Natatorium

Indoor pools are vibrant spaces that host a variety of activities, from recreational swimming to swim meets, aqua aerobics, and water yoga. But these spaces also come with unique acoustic challenges. Noise from splashing water, echoing voices, and mechanical equipment like pool pumps can create a cacophony that disrupts communication, instruction, and enjoyment.

In this article, we’ll dive into the essentials of soundproofing an indoor pool, with a special focus on reducing noise from pool pumps—a critical but often overlooked source of sound.

Why Soundproofing Matters

Indoor pools, also called natatoriums, are notorious for poor acoustics. Hard surfaces like concrete ceilings and walls reflect sound, causing excessive echo and reverb. This makes it difficult for lifeguards, instructors, and swimmers to communicate effectively—a potential safety issue.

Adding to the noise, mechanical equipment like pool pumps and filtration systems hum and vibrate, creating a constant background noise that amplifies in the enclosed environment. Addressing both these issues is essential to create a safe and enjoyable space for all users.

The Challenge of Pool Pump Noise

Pool pumps are critical for maintaining clean and healthy water, but they can also be one of the loudest components in an indoor pool. Vibrations, mechanical humming, and water flow noises from pumps and filtration systems can reverberate throughout the space. Without proper soundproofing, these sounds disrupt the atmosphere and create unnecessary stress for patrons and staff.

How to Soundproof Pool Pumps

Here are practical solutions for reducing pool pump noise:

1. Install a Soundproof Pool Pump Enclosure

Enclosing the pool pump in a soundproof enclosure is one of the most effective ways to block noise. A custom-built or pre-fabricated pool pump quiet box lined with acoustic materials can absorb sound and reduce vibrations.

• Recommended Material: Use PrivacyShield® ABSC-25 Barrier Septum Soundproofing Blankets to line the inside of the enclosure. These blankets feature a mass-loaded vinyl barrier for blocking noise and an absorptive surface to reduce echo inside the box.

2. Use a Soundproof Pool Pump Cover

For smaller spaces or outdoor pools, a soundproof cover can provide an alternative solution. Look for covers designed with acoustic foam or vinyl barriers to dampen sound while maintaining airflow for the pump’s cooling needs.

3. Add a Sound Barrier for Pool Pumps

If the pump is located in a mechanical room, soundproofing the wall can isolate noise effectively. This can be achieved using AudioSeal® Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) Soundproofing Barrier or a PrivacyShield® Industrial Sound Enclosure if the size and space around the pump allow. Then the door may be sealed with an Acoustic Door Seal Kit.

4. Apply Vibration Isolation Pads

Vibrations from pool pumps can transfer through the floor and amplify in the pool space. Installing anti-vibration pads beneath the pump minimizes this structural noise. These pads are especially effective on concrete floors.

Soundproofing the Pool Space

Once the pump noise is managed, improving the pool’s acoustics is the next step. Here’s how to address echo and reverb in the natatorium:

1. Ceiling Treatments

Suspending sound-absorbing materials from the ceiling is one of the most effective ways to manage acoustics in a large open space. Products like the AlphaEnviro® PVC Sound Baffles and AlphaFlex® PVC Ceiling Banners reduce echo and improve speech intelligibility without interfering with activities below.

2. Wall Treatments

If wall space is available, consider installing AlphaEnviro® PVC Acoustic Panels. These panels are moisture-resistant, easy to clean, and highly effective at reducing reverb.

3. Acoustic Foam

For a more aesthetic option, AlphaSorb® Flat Acoustic Foam can be installed on walls or ceilings. These panels come in various designs and colors, adding a decorative touch while improving sound quality.

Comparing Echo Reduction and Pool Pump Soundproofing

It’s important to recognize the difference between managing echo and reverb in the pool area and addressing mechanical noise from pool pumps. While ceiling and wall treatments absorb sound to improve communication and comfort, soundproofing the pump requires blocking and isolating noise at the source. Together, these solutions create a balanced acoustic environment.

Desired Results for Indoor Pools

For a safe and enjoyable pool environment, aim for these reverberation times:

• Instructional Pools: 1.0 – 1.5 seconds
• Recreational Pools: Up to 2.0 seconds

Combining sound-absorbing materials with effective pump soundproofing ensures you meet these targets.

Acoustic Materials for Soundproofing an Indoor Pool

AlphaEnviro^® PVC Sound Baffle

AlphaFlex^® PVC Ceiling Banner (Solid PVC on Front)

AlphaSorb^® Flat Foam

Sonex^® Rondo Sound Baffle

Sonex^® Valueline Acoustic Foam

Sonex^® Classic Acoustic Foam

Featured Applications

AlphaFlex^® PVC Ceiling Banners and AlphaEnviro^® PVC Acoustic Panel completely turned this Natatorium (Indoor Pool) into a great sounding and super functional space.

Mission Valley Aquatics improved the acoustics for their indoor pool with a combination of AlphaEnviro^® PVC Acoustic Panels and Baffles.

A series of 4′ x 4′ PVC Baffles installed at the Ridgefield Aquatic Club Pool to lower the reverberation and to improve the communication efforts between the coaches and athletes.

The AlphaEnviro^® PVC Sound Baffle is an excellent choice to improve the sound quality for indoor pools.

Sonex^® Valueline Foam by Pinta Acoustic, Inc. – Willow Pool

Sonex^® Rondo Sound Baffle by Pinta Acoustic, Inc. – Pool

Sonex^® Rondo Sound Baffle by Pinta Acoustic, Inc. – Pool

Sonex^® One Acoustic Foam by Pinta Acoustics, Inc.

AlphaEnviro^® PVC Sound Baffle in a Pool Application.

Get Expert Help with Indoor Pool Soundproofing

Soundproofing an indoor pool requires addressing both the acoustics of the space and the mechanical noise from pool pumps. At Acoustical Solutions, we offer industry-leading products to tackle these challenges, from ceiling baffles and acoustic panels to soundproofing blankets and barriers for pool equipment.

Contact us today to learn how we can help transform your indoor pool into a quieter, more functional space.