We had it in operation for two summers. From May to about September, because during that time the humidity in the flat was high when we hung out the laundry. You can hear it quite well and we always close the door when it is on. But the fan seems quite loud to me. I can't tell if I hear the compressor as well. But we are very satisfied. Some of the laundry is dry in 24 hours. This is great with a small child.