Reducing vibration nuisance 101

Low-frequency vibration feels intrusive

This is an anti-vibration spring mount made by Mason. — *This is just one example of an anti-vibration spring mount. It’s made by a company called Mason, and you can buy it from Zoro.com.*

At Soundproofist, we get lots of questions about how to stop persistent vibration nuisance in your home. Some of you live in apartment buildings with large HVAC systems or your adjacent neighbors run fans, air conditioners, and other equipment. This can create detectable vibration and low-frequency rumbling in your home, and it’s frustrating and difficult to eradicate when you’re on the receiving end.

We asked an experienced and renowned acoustics consultant

Alan Fierstein, founder of Acoustilog in New York City, spoke with us about how to address unwanted vibration in your home. Sometimes it feels like it’s beyond your control, but he cited some interventions you can apply to the source of the issue, and in some rare cases, to the receiving end (which is you). Of course, addressing noise at the source is always the most effective, and in the case of equipment, springs — if installed correctly — could be your best solution.

Frequently asked questions about vibration nuisance:

What are the best ways to reduce vibration noise in living spaces?

To mitigate vibration noise, you can address it at its source, path, or receiver, in order of effectiveness. Installing springs or anti-vibration pads directly to noise-producing equipment can significantly reduce the transmission of vibration. Install the anti-vibration pads between the source of the noise and any floor, ceiling, or wall that it touches. For structural solutions, creating a thicker barrier like a concrete slab or floating floors can also be effective.

How can you prevent a ceiling fan or HVAC unit from causing vibration noise?

Suspending these devices with springs can isolate the vibration and prevent it from transferring to the building structure. This approach requires precise installation to avoid inadvertently amplifying the vibration.

Do anti-vibration pads reduce vibration noise?

Anti-vibration pads can be effective under certain conditions, particularly pads made of rubber or combined materials like rubber and cork. Their efficiency depends on the specific type of vibration and noise frequency. They’re particularly useful for equipment like fans or appliances. But they may not be as effective for structural noise reduction across all frequencies, throughout a building.

What’s the difference between airborne and structure-borne sound, and why is it important in vibration noise?

Airborne sound travels through the air, while structure-borne sound involves vibrations and low-frequency noise that’s transmitted through a building’s structure. Identifying the noise type helps you select the appropriate mitigation technique, whether it’s soundproofing for airborne noise or vibration isolators for structure-borne noise.

When do you need a consultant for addressing vibration noise?

Sound and vibration transmission is complex, and there’s potential for unintended consequences like amplifying the noise or causing equipment damage. So you should consult with an acoustics expert to ensure that you choose a mitigation strategy that’s correctly implemented and effective.