Soundproof your fridge and freezer – How to reduce noise and create a quieter home environment
Soundproofing and reducing noise from a fridge and freezer can make a big difference to home comfort, especially in open-plan layouts and smaller homes where background noise becomes more noticeable. Compressors, fans, and refrigerant flows can generate constant and disturbing noise that affects the home environment. By taking the right measures, you can significantly reduce the noise level and create a more harmonious atmosphere.
Here we go through the best methods for soundproofing fridges and freezers, which materials work best, and how to optimize the placement of your appliances to reduce noise.
Why do fridges and freezers make noise?
Noise from a fridge or freezer can come from several sources, but the most common are:
Structure-borne noise
Occurs when the compressor is running and the vibrations spread through the floor and walls.
Airborne noise
Generated by the fan and refrigerant flow, which spreads sound waves through the room.
Sound reflections
If the fridge or freezer is placed near a wall, the sound can be amplified when reflected.
Uneven placement
If the appliance is not level, it can vibrate more than necessary.
To reduce these disturbances, you need to combine soundproofing, vibration damping, and sound-absorbing materials.
When should you consider a new, quieter fridge and freezer? If you’ve tried all sound-reducing measures but still experience disturbing noise, it may be worth considering investing in a new, quieter model. Modern refrigerators and freezers are often:
- Better soundproofed than older models.
- Equipped with low-noise compressors and fans.
- More efficient, which means they don’t need to work as hard to maintain a stable temperature.
If your fridge or freezer is old and noisy, a new model may be a long-term solution that both reduces noise and saves energy.
How to soundproof your fridge and freezer effectively
Soundproofing your fridge and freezer is an effective measure to reduce noise and improve the home sound environment. The most effective solutions include:
- Dampen vibrations by placing rubber mats or vibration-absorbing feet under the appliance.
- Optimize placement by creating an air gap between the fridge and the wall to reduce sound reflections.
- Insulate the back and sides with sound-absorbing material without disrupting airflow.
- Maintain and clean the fan to avoid additional noise.
- Consider a quieter model if the noise is constant and disturbing.