For a home to be truly a place of peace and comfort, we should consider our five basic senses- vision, hearing, smell, touch, and taste. Our senses of vision and smell are soothed by a clean and clutter-free home, taste is handled at dinner time, and comfortable furniture is pleasant to the touch. Our sense of hearing, though, can sometimes be overlooked by even the most attentive of homemakers.

Sometimes we can get so accustomed to loud, jarring sounds that we barely even notice them. Our nervous systems notice them, however. Being exposed to unpleasant noise steals our attention and focus, causes tension, irritability and anxiety, and can even result in physical symptoms such as headaches or migraines.

This effect is compounded with multiple sources of noise, such as a dishwasher, coffee grinder, and vacuum cleaner all running at the same time. Studies have shown that reducing the levels of ambient noise we are exposed to in our homes greatly increases our sense of calm and well-being.

Sound is measured in decibels. Noises at decibel levels of 85 and over can damage your hearing, and prolonged exposure to noise at much lower levels- as low as 55 decibels- can impact your health and disrupt your sleeping pattern. The following home appliances are the main culprits when it comes to noisy homes, but of course, the list is not comprehensive.

Dishwashers

Great strides in dishwasher technology have been made in recent years, resulting in much quieter models being available on the market. These high-end designs are nearly silent, and quite a step up from traditional dishwashers, which create noise in the 45-60 decibel range. Dishwasher cycles can last up to 4 hours, so any reduction in dishwasher noise makes a positive impact on your home environment.

Hoods

Your range hood helps to keep your kitchen free from smoke and fumes while cooking, but it can be a source of noise as well. Larger, industrial-type hoods usually give off more noise, since they use more powerful motors and fans. In general, hoods give off 50-70 decibels of continuous sound while they are in use.

Refrigerators

Although there is a vast range of sound created by refrigerators based on the age and quality of the model, they are typically between 32 and 47 decibels. Newer refrigerators are much quieter, even accounting for the occasional tumbling sound caused by the ice cube making feature on many models. Placing your refrigerator on a padded mat and making sure it’s not touching any surrounding walls are two helpful ways to absorb the sound and make them seem quieter.

Read also: How to Choose Your Refrigerator During a Remodel

Washer and Dryer

A washing machine is between 47 and 67 decibels on average, though some cycles are louder than others. Dryers usually run between 56 and 58. Luckily, many homes’ washer and dryer are located far enough away from common areas and bedrooms so that their noise is not bothersome to occupants. Some homes have a door in the laundry room, further reducing the sound. Like refrigerators, washers and dryers can be placed on mats to help absorb some of the sound and noisy vibrations.

Small Appliances

Coffee grinders, blenders, juicers, kettles, and microwaves are just a few examples of appliances that are used for a shorter period of time. They still give off noise though, and when two or more are in operation at the same time, the resulting cacophony can be annoying, to say the least.

The best way to reduce the levels of noise caused by your home appliances is to invest in well-designed models that will last longer, work better, and improve your quality of life in many ways. Facets of Lafayette is a home appliance store in Lafayette, LA which specializes in the types of high-quality brands that will make your home a healthier, more relaxing, and comfortable place for you and your family.

Stop by our showroom today or schedule an appointment with us, and our knowledgeable and courteous staff will help you select quiet and effective home appliances best suited to your needs.