Air compressors are noisy machines that are used to compress air.
The noise generated by an air compressor can be extremely loud and disruptive, which is why many people choose to use them in areas where there is little or no background noise.
They are used for a variety of purposes, such as inflating tires, powering pneumatic tools, and providing compressed air for respiratory equipment.
But how do you make an air compressor quiet?
- You should install the air compressor in a separate room from your workstation
- Ensure there’s a distance between your workspace and the compressor
- Use a soundproof enclosure for air compressor
- Add some soundproof blankets around the device
- Buy a quiet air compressor
How Loud Are Air Compressors?
1. Anti Vibration Pads
They are commonly used in a variety of applications, including:
- HVAC systems
- Mechanical equipment
- Appliances
- Electronics
There are many different types of anti vibration pads available on the market, each with its own unique set of features and benefits. When selecting an anti vibration pad, it is important to consider the specific needs of your application. Some factors to keep in mind include:
- The type of equipment or appliance that will be using the pad
- The amount of weight that will be placed on the pad
- The level of noise and vibration reduction required
- The environment in which the pad will be used
2. Tighten any Loose Parts in the compressor
Over time, parts in your air compressor can become loose. This is especially true for the older models. If you notice that your compressor isn’t running as efficiently as it used to, check for loose parts.
To tighten loose parts, first make sure that the power is off and the unit is unplugged. Next, locate the loose part. Once you’ve found the loose part, use a wrench or other tool to tighten it.
If you’re not sure how to tighten the loose part, consult your air compressor’s owner’s manual. With most models, there will be a diagram that shows you exactly where the parts are located and how to tighten them.
Once you’ve tightened the loose part, turn on the power and plug in the unit. If it still isn’t running properly, consult a professional for help.
3. Soundproof Box
A sound proof box is an enclosure used to block out unwanted noise. It is typically made of thick, acoustically absorbent material and has a sound-dampened interior.
Soundproof boxes are widely used for soundproofing generators, air compressors, blenders and so much more.
There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a sound proof box. The size and shape of the enclosure will need to be considered, as well as the type of material it is made from.
The thickness of the walls and the level of insulation will also impact its effectiveness. It is important to choose a box that is large enough to comfortably accommodate the equipment or
4. Work Away from the Air Compressor
If your air compressor is located in your garage, you can try working on your car outside of the garage. This will help to muffle some of the noise coming from the compressor.
If you don’t have a garage, or if working outside isn’t an option, try using a sound blanket or soundproof foam to help reduce the noise coming from the compressor.
Additionally working a distance from a your compressor will help to avoid any potential accidents or injuries that could occur if you were to get too close.
5. Use Ear Plugs
Wearing ear plugs is an effective way to reduce the noise coming from an air compressor. This is a particularly good option if you have to use the compressor for an extended period of time.
If you only need to use the air compressor for a short period of time, you can try wearing earplugs for a portion of that time. This will help to reduce the overall noise exposure and make it more tolerable.
There are many different types and styles of earplugs available on the market. Make sure to select earplugs that fit well and are comfortable to wear. Some earplugs can be inserted into the ear canal, while others fit over the opening of the ear.
6. Use Sound Blankets
Soundproof blankets, also known as acoustic blankets, are special types of blankets that are designed to absorb noise.
They are typically made from thick, dense materials such as wool or cotton, and they can be used in a variety of different settings in order to reduce noise levels.
One common use for soundproof blankets is to line the walls of a recording studio. This can help to reduce the amount of outside noise that bleeds into the recordings, and it can also create a more controlled environment for musicians and engineers to work in.
It’s important to note that sound blankets will not completely eliminate all noise from an air compressor, but they can significantly reduce the amount of noise that is emitted. In addition, sound blankets can also help to protect your ears from the loud noise of an air compressor.
7. Lubricate the Joints
Lubricating air compressors is an important part of their routine maintenance. It helps to keep them running smoothly and efficiently while also prolonging their lifespan. While there are many different ways to lubricate air compressors, one of the most effective is by using an oil-based lubricant.
Oil-based lubricants are designed to provide a thick barrier of protection against the wear and tear that air compressors endure on a daily basis.
They can also help to prevent rust and corrosion, which can damage the internals of the compressor over time. When applied correctly, oil-based lubricants can make a big difference in the performance and longevity of your air compressor.
If you’re not sure how to properly lubricate your air compressor, be sure to consult the owner’s manual for specific instructions.
In most cases, you’ll simply need to add a few drops of oil to the compressor’s lubrication port and then run the unit for a few minutes to allow the oil to circulate. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with a professional if you’re unsure about anything.
8. Clean the Filters
The filters in your compressor could be the source of the noise. As air is taken into the compressor, the air filters work is to sift through to remove any dirt present that may damage the compressor.
Nonetheless, if you do not check the filters regularly, dirt can accumulate and clog the filters resulting in unbearable noise.
When the air compressor filters are clogged, the machine will struggle to operate.
Air will not quickly get through the filters, and the dirt particles inside the compressor will be all over.
Bouncing from one section to another resulting in the noise you are hearing. Therefore, you need to clean the air filters regularly.
Another way to reduce the noise coming from your air compressor is to keep it well-maintained. This means regularly cleaning and lubricating it. This will help to keep all the parts running smoothly and quietly.
9. Make Some Physical Changes to the Compressor
There are a few physical changes you can make to your air compressor that will help reduce noise. First, make sure the compressor is sitting on a solid, level surface. If it’s vibrating, it will create more noise.
Second, you can add rubber pads or mounts to the feet of the compressor to further reduce vibration and noise. Finally, if your compressor has an intake filter, clean or replace it regularly.
A dirty filter can restrict air flow and make the compressor work harder, which creates more noise.
How to Make an Air Compressor Quiet- Take Away
Above are simple tips on how to make an air compressor quiet, they are cheap yet effective hacks. Alternatively, if your neighbor’s are constantly complaining about your noisy compressors, you might want to consider soundproofing your garage. This project will involve sealing all the gaps that leak noise outside from your garage.
Even though getting a new quiet compressor might be an option, won’t it be simple to fix the noise problem of the one you have?
The above tips should help you with the problem
Sources:
https://jhfoster.com/automation-blogs/how-to-quiet-an-oil-less-air-compressor/
Meet Mike O’Connor, (a DIY enthusiast), living in Cincinnati, a city ranked as the noisiest in the USA.
As a work from home dad, I have a first hand experience of how noise can truly affect your well being.
Soundproofing isn’t something that should be taken as a hobby, it should be a skill that every homeowner should be equipped with.
Most of the work documented on this blog comes from purely first hand experience, and the products recommended work as indicated.