An air compressor is a machine that stores compressed air and uses it to run power tools and fill up pools and tires. Just like all machines that work with pressurized air, air compressors are bound to make some noise. However, if that noise is unbearable, it is better to look for a solution.
High-end air compressors are usually much quieter but not everyone can afford to invest that much money in a simple machine. For this reason, we have put together a complete guide on how you can make your air compressor quieter. Read on to learn more.
Air compressor noise levels
Let’s begin by discussing how much noise is too much noise. Noise is usually measured in decibels. Noise levels of 70 decibels or less are considered to be tolerable. These noise levels are not harmful to you or the environment. However, if you are working with a cheap or old unit then you will notice that the noise levels will be way too much. Noise levels may go up to 90 dB which is harmful to your ears and also very annoying.
How can you check the exact noise levels of your unit? There are many ways to achieve this but one popular method is used to measure noise levels using a mobile app. You can also use professional tools; however, mobile apps are much more accessible and easier to use.
Reasons for noisy air compressors
You must be wondering what causes your air compressor to make so much noise. Well, there are a number of factors that contribute to this.
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Vibrations of unit
Air compressors work with compressed air so these machines vibrate a lot. If your unit is vibrating way too much then there might be some underlying issue such as a loose part or improper assembly. However, even if everything is in place, it is still probable that your unit will vibrate and create noise.
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Materials
Air compressors manufactured using low-quality materials are bound to make a lot of noise. This is because thin materials vibrate more and hence, they create more noise. If high-quality materials are used in the construction of air compressors, it may help reduce noise levels.
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Placement
As mentioned before, air compressors vibrate during operation so if they are placed on a hard and uneven surface, they will vibrate a lot leading to more noise.
Tips to reduce noise levels
Following these simple tips and tricks can help you reduce the noise levels of air compressors.
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Using rubber grommets
As mentioned before, one major reason for noisy air compressors is that they are placed on hard uneven surfaces. In order to prevent this, you can put a rubber grommet under air compressors. Rubber absorbs noise so it will reduce vibrations and in turn reduce the noise levels.
You can’t just place any rubber cutting under the unit. You need to ensure that it is of proper size and that it ensures proper stability of the air compressor. This is important because you also need to prevent uneven surfaces.
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Lubricate all the bearings
Air compressors have moving parts so of course there are bearings present in the unit. Bearings may be subject to wear and tear over time that is caused due to friction. If this continues, this will constantly lead to an increase in the noise levels.
In order to take care of this problem, you can simply lubricate the bearing using any kind of grease or oil. This will not only reduce noise levels but will also help make the unit more durable by preventing wear and tear.
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Place the unit outdoors
You can either use the unit outdoors and if that is not possible then you can also try just putting the air intake outside. However, you will need to get a longer hose if you do this but it is worth it if it helps cut down on all the noise.
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Rubber padding walls
Just like placing rubber under the air compressor helps reduce noise levels, layering the walls around with rubber will also help cut down on all the noise. This is because the rubber absorbs the sound instead of reflecting it.
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Soundproof the unit
You can either invest in a soundproof box for the air compressor or just covert the air compressor using a soundproof blanket. This way the noise will be contained within the unit and you will be able to work in a calm environment.
Conclusion
Air compressors can be noisy but that does not mean that there is no way to overcome this problem. We have provided you with various ways to help reduce the noise levels so that you can work in peace. These methods will surely make the air compressor much quieter and allow for a peaceful operation. If you are unclear about any of the above methods, you can send us your queries and we would be more than happy to assist you.
FAQ’s
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Do air compressor silencers work?
Answer: Yes, silencers are very efficient at reducing the noise levels of air compressors. They work by absorbing the noise from the air compressor. This is done by using an insulating material. However, you will have to get them separately and they might cost a little extra.
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Which types of air compressors are the quietest?
Answer: We believe that scroll air compressors are not only very quiet but they are also very efficient. Along with these, we also really like reciprocating compressors as well as rotary screw air compressors when it comes to low noise levels.
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Why do air compressors get noisy?
Answer: Location, placement, and vibrations are just some of the reasons which may cause high noise levels in air compressors. These factors have been discussed in detail in the article.
