How To Reduce Noise in Commercial Laundry Rooms

In commercial laundry environments, noise is more than just a nuisance; it can impact worker comfort, operational safety, and the reputation of your facility. Whether you run a hotel laundry, care home laundry, hospital linen services, or industrial laundry, managing sound levels is key. 

At GA Commercial, we supply high-quality laundry equipment and provide expert advice on installation and room design to help you create a quieter, more efficient workspace. Below, we explore the causes of noise in commercial laundry rooms and provide effective methods for reducing it.

The Cause of Noise in Commercial Laundry Rooms

•    Machine Vibrations: Large, industrial-grade machines generate significant vibrations during spin cycles, which can transfer to floors and walls, amplifying noise levels.
•    Dryers & Fans: Dryers generate constant noise via their air blowers, exhaust fans, and tumbling mechanisms. The air movement itself produces a hum and mechanical vibration from rotor parts, which adds to the sound.
•    Improper Installation: Machines not levelled or installed on inadequate flooring can create unnecessary rattling and instability.
•    Structural Factors: Thin walls, low ceilings, and inadequate soundproofing can allow noise to travel throughout the building.
•    Operational Conditions: Overloaded machines, worn components, or poorly maintained equipment can lead to increased operational noise.
•    Impact & Resonance Effects: Loose panels, covers, ductwork, or sheet metal surfaces can resonate or rattle, causing disturbances. Impact sounds may occur when belts, pulleys, or other parts strike housings due to vibration. 

How to Reduce Noise in Commercial Laundry Rooms

There is no single fix. Reducing noise requires a layered approach across equipment, room design, maintenance, and acoustic treatments. Here are the best practices, many of which GA Commercial can advise on or support alongside supplying the necessary equipment.

1.    Invest in High Quality Equipment

Modern commercial laundry equipment is designed with noise-reduction features, including quiet motors, advanced suspension systems, and insulated panels. 

Look for manufacturer specifications, such as decibel (dB) output, sound power levels, or certifications.

2.    Use Anti-Vibration Pads, Mounts, & Isolation Supports

One of the simplest and most cost-effective methods is to place anti-vibration pads or mounts underneath washers, dryers, and heavy machinery. These dampen vibrations before they transmit to the floor. Use pads made of rubber, neoprene or specially designed composite materials. Ensure machines remain level and stable; the mounts should absorb movement without allowing sag.

In some cases, isolator springs or rubber-lined mounting brackets are used for heavier machines or elevated platforms.

3.    Optimise Machine Placement

Properly spacing out machines can prevent sound waves from compounding. Position machines away from walls to reduce reverberation. Use sound-absorbing barriers or partitions to isolate noisy equipment. 

•    Separate Noisy Machines: Dryers and blowers away from quieter zones or walls shared with sensitive areas
•    Space Machines Adequately: So vibration doesn’t transfer between units
•    Mount on Concrete or Heavy Slabs: Rather than lightweight floors to reduce resonance
•    Avoid Placing Machines Directly Against Walls: Leave small gaps and use cushions or vibration dampers

4.    Install Soundproofing Materials

To reduce reverberation and echo within the room:

•    Acoustic panels or tiles on walls and ceilings
•    Mineral fibre or perforated panels
•    Carpet or rubber flooring strips in walkways or under machines to dampen impact
•    Acoustic ceiling tiles are used as a suspended ceiling to absorb noise energy
•    Line ductwork or exhaust piping with acoustic liners to reduce transmitted sound through ventilation paths

These treatments help soak up sound, especially in mid and high frequencies, improving the perceived quietness.

5.    Schedule Regular Maintenance

Preventive maintenance ensures machines operate smoothly and reduces noise caused by worn belts, loose parts, or misaligned components. Tighten bolts and connections, inspect and replace damaged drum bearings, and clean the lint traps and ducts. 

6.    Educate Employees on Proper Machine Use

Train employees on best practices to reduce machine noise. This includes avoiding overloading the machines, evenly distributing loads to prevent imbalance, and promptly reporting unusual sounds or machine issues. 

7.    Enclose or Box Dryers & Noisy Units

Because dryers are major noise contributors, enclosing them in acoustic enclosures can dramatically reduce audible emissions. Box them in on three sides (leaving ventilation) and line the inside with sound-absorbing material. The enclosure must allow airflow in and out to prevent overheating, and its panels must be well sealed and rigid to prevent rattling.

How GA Commercial Can Support Your Business

At GA Commercial, we don’t just supply machines; we provide guidance on layout, installation, and best practices to help you achieve quieter outcomes. Our approach includes:
•    Advising on equipment with acoustic design or lower noise ratings
•    Helping plan room layouts and machine placement, mindful of vibration paths
•    Recommending acoustic materials and enclosures compatible with laundry environments
•    Working with your team or contractors to install anti-vibration mounts, isolation pads, and ensure proper balancing
•    Offering maintenance contracts to keep vibration and noise under control

When you consult with GA Commercial, you’re investing in a quieter, more efficient, and more sustainable laundry operation.