Quiet Hand Dryers

Why Do I Need A Noise Reducing Hand Dryer?

These days quiet hand dryers are just as effective as noisier models. Technology has moved on considerably, so don't think for a minute that low noise equals low performance! 

• Energy efficiency - Low-noise hand dryers are often more energy efficient. Noise-dampening technology can actually save you money.
• Productivity - Nothing is more irritating that a high level of background noise when you are trying to read, work or study. A low-noise electric hand dryer will enhance your working environment rather than hinder it!
• Complaints - The Noise Abatement Society exists for a reason. No one wants excessive noise and the complaints and possible fines that go with it. 

Why Are Some Hand Dryers Quieter Than Others?

The main reasons are motor speed and the characteristics of the air outlet. The job of a hand dryer is to dry the hands, and the quicker the better. The development of hand dryer technology has come a long way in producing high-performance units with reduced noise. There will always be a trade-off between dry time. energy efficiency and noise level. The key is to find a unit that has the perfect balance for your location. Also, some hand dryers have a higher pitch than others, which means that noise transfers through walls is lessened. This may be an important consideration in libraries, offices, and care homes for example. We feel it is best to test and get a unit in situ before making a decision, so please don't hesitate to book a demonstration with us to try before you buy.

Is A Quiet Hand Dryer the Best Option?

This often depends on the demographics of the user and the location. There is no such thing as a completely silent hand dryer, but there are ones that produce very little noise. The problem with these is that they usually take a very long time to dry the hands, with low motor speed and reliance on energy-hungry heater elements to evaporate water. There are many low-energy dryersthat have sacrificed speed for reduced noise levels. However, we understand there may be a need to compromise totally on other characteristics for the lowest noise possible, as even old-style conventional hand dryers will still save significant amounts of money and reduce carbon production compared to the constant use of paper towels. A great solution that must be considered is the Dryflow Elite, a favourite that is installed in the Eureka National Children’s Museum.

Adjustable Hand Dryers

Some hand dryers like have settings and dials to manually adjust the speed. These are ideal because you can customise to your own requirements. They are great for buildings that require the same-looking hand dryer throughout but have some locations which are noise sensitive.

How are Hand Dryer Noise Levels Tested?

Hand dryer manufacturers measure sound levels in terms of decibels dB(A) at a distance of 1 or 2 metres, in a soundproof chamber. This does not take into account the increase in noise when hands are positioned under/in the dryer or when the sound bounces off walls. Therefore you can not always rely on the figure presented to you. It is far better to get the hand dryer in a location to test for yourself. To book a demonstration at your location please Contact us

How do I understand the decibel rating on a hand dryer?

The smallest audible sound (near total silence) is 0 dB(A). A sound 10 times more powerful is 10 dB(A). A sound 100 times more powerful than near total silence is 20 dB(A). A sound 1,000 times more powerful than near total silence is 30 dB(A).

To put this into context:

Near-total silence - 0 dB

A whisper - 15 dB

Normal conversation - 60 db

The Mitsubishi Jet Towel 58db

Dryflow Elite Hand Dryer 69db

The xlerator 90db

The Dyson airblade ab14 80db

A lawnmower - 90 dB

A car horn - 110 dB

A rock concert or a jet engine - 120 dB

A gunshot or firecracker - 140 dB

Distance affects the intensity of sound, if you are a distance away, the power is greatly diminished. All of the ratings above are taken while standing near the sound. The dB(A) rating on hand dryers is usually measured 1m away from the air outlet of the hand dryer (please check individual specifications)

Any sound above 85 dB can have ill effects on hearing, the loss of hearing is related both to the power of the sound as well as the length of exposure. You know that you are listening to an 85 dB sound if you have to raise your voice to be heard by somebody else.

Continuous exposure for eight hours of 90 dB sound can cause damage to your ears and protective equipment is recommended. Any exposure to 140 dB sound causes immediate damage (and causes immediate discomfort.

NIOSH Daily Permissible Noise Level Exposure (Hours per day / Sound level)

• 8 hours = 85dBA
• 6 hours = 86dBA
• 4 hours = 88dBA
• 3 hours = 89dBA
• 2 hours = 90dBA
• 1.5 hours = 92dBA
• 1 hours = 94dBA
• 0.5 hours = 97dBA
• 0.25 hours or less = 100dBA

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Perceptions of Increases in Decibel Level:

• Imperceptible Change 1dB
• Barely Perceptible Change 3dB
• Clearly Noticeable Change 5dB
• About Twice as Loud 10dB
• About Four Times as Loud 20dB

You may also find it useful to check out our blog where you will find a comparative review of the Quietest hand dryers on the market

Still not found what you want? Call one of our friendly experts on 0114 3540047 or visit our main electric hand dryer category and filter down to your specific requirements.