Hand Dryers are one of the most important tools in any restroom. They save paper towel usage and help to keep the environment clean. Even though hand dryers play an important role in our daily lives, they can be quite noisy. But why are hand dryers so loud?
Hand dryers are so loud because they work by using a high-powered motor to force air through a small opening. This airflow creates turbulence which amplifies the sound of the hand dryer. In addition, hand dryers are often located in areas with hard surfaces such as tile which can further amplify the sound. Finally, many people use hand dryers when they are already in a hurry which can increase their perception of the noise.
How Loud are Hand Dryers?
You might be surprised to learn that hand dryers are actually quite loud. In fact, they can reach up to 85 decibels, which is about as loud as a blender or a vacuum cleaner.
Of course, not all hand dryers are this loud, but it’s definitely something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a quiet option.
According to tests the average hand dryer is around 80 decibels, which is about as loud as a blender. Some hand dryers can be even louder than that, reaching up to 100 decibels.
It’s important to note that noise above 100 decibels can cause noise induced hearing loss even when exposed for less than 15 minutes daily.
That’s about as loud as a chainsaw. Thankfully, most hand dryers have an automatic shut-off feature so they don’t run for too long and damage your hearing.
So why are hand dryers so loud? It’s because of the way they work. Hand dryers use a powerful stream of air to quickly dry your hands.
This high-speed airflow makes a lot of noise as it exits the dryer. Some hand dryers are louder than others because of the type of motor they use.
Brushless motors tend to be quieter than standard motors, so if you’re looking for a quiet hand dryer, make sure to check for this feature.
If you’re not a fan of loud noises, you may want to avoid using hand dryers altogether. You can always opt for paper towels instead.
Or, if you’re at a public restroom that only has hand dryers, try covering your ears with your hands while the dryer is running. Either way, it’s important to be aware of how loud hand dryers can be so you can protect your hearing.
Quietest Hand Dryers on the Market Today
1. WBHome Ultra-Thin hand dryer
Decibel Levels |
72 dB |
Waterproof |
IPX1 |
Power |
AC 110 V 50/60Hz (Rated power: 950W) |
Air temperature |
95 °F to 145 °F |
Drying time |
10-15 sec |
The WBHome Ultra-Thin hand dryer is a powerful, yet compact hand dryer that is perfect for any small space.
With its sleek design and ultra-thin profile, the hand dryer is ideal for use in tight spaces such as under countertops or in small bathrooms.
Additionally, this hand dryer comes with a built-in overheat protection system that keeps your hands safe and comfortable while using it.
This hand dryer features a powerful motor that dries hands quickly and completely, while its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use.
This is also one of the most affordable hand dryers on the market, making it a great value for your money.
2. VALENS Hand Dryer
Air temperature |
104 °F |
Max airspeed |
222 mph |
Waterproof |
Rated IP23 |
Decibel Levels |
72 dB |
Power Rating |
1500 Watts, 120V/60HZ |
Drying time |
10-12 sec |
The VALENS hand dryer has a sleek, modern design that will complement any bathroom décor. It features a powerful motor that provides high-speed, energy-efficient drying.
The unit comes with a built-in sensor that automatically turns the dryer on when hands are placed under the nozzle. TheVALENS hand dryer is backed by a 5-year warranty.
Highlights:
· Sleek, modern design
· Powerful motor for high-speed, energy-efficient drying
· Built-in sensor turns dryer on automatically
· Backed by a 5-year warrant
3. Awoco Commercial Hand Dryer
Noise output |
70 dB |
Power |
1350W- 1450W, 12A |
Waterproof |
NA |
temperature |
68-104 °F |
|
|
Drying time |
7 to 15 sec |
The Awoco commercial hand dryer is a top quality product that offers high speed drying and low energy consumption.
It is perfect for use in any business or public restroom. The sleek design and powerful motor make it one of the most popular hand dryers on the market.
It features a built-in sensor that automatically turns the unit on when hands are placed under the spout. The unit will then begin to blow warm air, quickly drying hands in just seconds.
There are three adjustable settings to choose from, so you can customize the drying time to fit your needs.
The Awoco hand dryer also features a HEPA filter that helps to remove bacteria and other contaminants from the air. This makes it a great choice for use in healthcare facilities. The unit is also ETL listed and comes with a five-year warranty.
If you are looking for a top quality, high-speed hand dryer, the Awoco commercial hand dryer is a great option to consider.
It is perfect for use in any business or public restroom and comes with a variety of features that make it one of the most popular hand dryers on the market.
4. Valens Hand dryer with HEPA filter
Valens Hand dryer with HEPA filter is a wall-mounted, energy-efficient hand dryer that quickly dries hands without the use of paper towels.
It features an activated carbon filter that removes odors and a HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of airborne particles 0.3 microns or larger, making it ideal for high-traffic bathrooms in healthcare facilities, offices, schools, and other public spaces.
The sleek design is ADA compliant and features a built-in LED nightlight for easy location in low-light conditions. With a powerful motor that operates at just 8500 RPM, the Valens hand dryer is one of the fastest on the market, drying hands in as little as 10 seconds.
For added safety, the unit includes an automatic shut-off feature that activates when hands are no longer present in the drying area.
Factors to Consider When Buying A Hand Dryer
When choosing a hand dryer, there are several factors you need to consider to ensure you select the best possible option for your needs. Here are four key considerations:
1. Power Source: Hand dryers can be either electrically powered or battery powered. If you plan on using your hand dryer in a location where there is no electricity available, then you will need to choose a battery-powered model.
2. Drying Time: The drying time of a hand dryer is an important consideration, especially if you have a large number of people using the device on a regular basis. Some hand dryers can take up to 30 seconds to completely dry your hands, while others may only take 10-15 seconds.
3. Noise Level: Another important consideration is the noise level of the hand dryer. Some models can be quite loud, which may not be ideal if you are using the device in a public space such as a office or store.
4. Price: Hand dryers can vary significantly in price, so it is important to consider your budget when choosing a model. Some high-end models can cost upwards of $100, while more basic models may only cost around $20.
5. Warranty: Finally, you’ll want to consider the warranty that is offered on the hand dryer. Most models come with a one-year warranty, but some may offer longer terms. This is important to consider in case you have any issues with the device within the warranty period.
Sources:
https://www.noisyplanet.nidcd.nih.gov/have-you-heard/can-electric-hand-dryers-hurt-your-hearing
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.