How to Reduce Noise at Home
- 1
Such materials as carpet and upholstery help absorb sound.Living room image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com
Fill your home with soft, porous materials. Sounds within a space are either reflected or absorbed. Reflective materials, such as hardwood floors, laminated surfaces and glass, may result in unwanted echoes or reverberation. Soft materials, such as carpeting, upholstery and curtains, help absorb sound waves and reduce overall noise levels. - 2). Seek out noise-reduced appliances. Noise-reduced dishwashers, vacuums, washing machines, air conditioners, blenders and even blow dryers and computers are increasingly available. If you cannot afford to replace perfectly functional electronics with quieter models, soundproof your existing appliances. Soundproofing.org suggests placing vibration pads under washing machines and dryers as well as inserting floor mats under exercise equipment, such as treadmills and elliptical trainers. Sound-absorbing material is also available to insulate the area around refrigerators.
- 3). Invest in soundproof windows or window coverings. Acoustical windows with a high Sound Transmissions Class (STC) rating help isolate the home from exterior noise. But if replacing your windows is not a reasonable option, consider noise-dampening drapes or blinds. Specialty window coverings containing noise shields effectively reduce sound intrusions.
- 4
Power down electronics when not in use.zapp image by djul from Fotolia.com
Switch off unattended electronics. You are responsible for much of the noise within your own home. Leaving the television or radio on when you are not actively focusing on it causes unnecessary sound pollution. The same goes for your computer. In sleep mode, your computer fan emits narrowband noise into the environment. Fluorescent lights may also impose a subtle hum upon your living space. - 5
Don't impose your audio on those around you.girl with headphones listening to music image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com
Wear headphones. If you live with other people, don headphones when listening to music or the radio, playing video games or even watching television. Sounds that interest you may be perceived as noise by others in the same environment. Be considerate of your housemates, and expect the same courtesy in return.
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