Acoustic solutions for a peaceful home

The acoustics within buildings are integrally linked to our wellbeing. Yet because sound is invisible this vital element is often overlooked. With more of us working from home, the need for quiet home appliances and acoustic solutions to boost concentration, productivity and relaxation is paramount. However, the science of acoustic design is complex and finding trusted solutions to reduce noise within the home can be a challenge.

This is why the Quiet Mark’s Acoustics Academy provides an online directory of expert-verified quiet home appliances and acoustic solutions for every scheme. The database makes it easy to find hundreds of beautifully designed acoustic-enhancing products from building materials to home appliances, air purifiers and heating systems. Here are just some of the different ways you can create a tranquil, relaxing home.

In partnership with Quiet Mark

Acoustic solutions

When it comes to reducing ambient noise there is a host of stylish and effective acoustic solutions. For example, the Akupanel from WoodUpp is an acoustical wooden slat wall panel that brings the beauty and calm of nature inside. The design is especially effective in rooms with hard surfaces. The slats absorb any soundwaves that would otherwise reverberate around the space, creating a serene environment.

Alternatively, the Framed collection by Greenmood comprises a range of beautiful framed wall panels made from reindeer moss. With four distinctive designs depicting graphic shapes and lines, the panels will add a stylish focal point to a room while absorbing and cushioning noise.

Quiet washing machine

During the past year our homes have become both office and sanctuary, functioning best with a calm, tranquil environment. But a noise-free background that’s conducive to work or quality downtime, is far from possible if you have a washing machine with long programmes that end in an ear-splitting 80dB spin cycle.

Fortunately, there is an ingenious acoustic solution. The Quiet Mark-certified WEG665 washing machine from Miele is one of the quietest washing machines on the market. Featuring a low-noise Profi-Eco motor it is 50% quieter than models with a carbon-brush motor. Plus, at only 50dB, it’s less noisy than a conversation. Moreover, this WiFi-enabled machine has a range of intelligent features, uses less water and electricity and even makes light work of ironing.

Quiet refrigeration

We all know that storing groceries in cold conditions will ensure lasting freshness and prevent food waste. But sometimes fridges can make an intrusive din. The cool acoustic solution? The Quiet Mark-certified ICBNdi 5183 Peak BioFresh NoFrost fridge-freezer from Liebherr.

This sleek integrated appliance recently received the world-renowned 2021 iF Design Award. As well as good looks it is incredibly practical. The fridge can hold nine bags of shopping at once, while the freezer has capacity for three.

Plus, with the handy water dispenser, you’ll be able to quench your thirst with an ice-cold drink whenever you wish. And because the doors can be installed on the left or right-hand side, it’ll look great wherever this quiet home appliance is stationed.

Quiet water power

Whether it’s a refreshing wake-up or a relaxing wind-down, showers are one of life’s must-have luxuries. However, your pamper time will be a let down if the water pressure is low or the pump is noisy.

The good news is you can solve water pressure in a low-noise way. Salamander Pumps has a range of products that quietly boost water performance. Plus, there’s a model to match every type of plumbing system.

Its Quiet Mark-certified Homeboost is a sophisticated whole house pump that recognises when water pressure and flow are low. It noiselessly increases water performance by up to 12 litres per minute.

Quiet heating

The Aerona³ air source heat pumps from Grant have been designed to make the minimum noise impact on the home and neighbouring properties. What’s more, they provide a sustainable heating solution to help you transition from fossil fuel systems.

Air source heat pumps have fans that make a sound when they rotate. But the noise levels of Aerona³ units are quieter than many household appliances. For example, the average washing machine has a sound level of 65dB and all four models in the Aerona³ range are considerably quieter than this.

Quiet ventilation

Bathroom humidity a problem? The Svara from Vent-Axia is your low-noise go-to ventilation answer. With a sleek modern design it features a quiet motor that operates at just 17 dB(A) on low trickle. It is also easy to clean and at only 4W is incredibly energy efficient.

Suitable for installation in a wide variety of settings including kitchens and bathrooms, Svara can be set to run continuously or intermittently. It even includes a sophisticated light sensor that’s activated when someone enters the room. Not only that, for added convenience you can control it remotely via the intuitive app.

Quiet purified air

We spend around 90 per cent of our time inside, yet indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than that outside. This is because the environment in the home is made up of a toxic mix of particles including dust, mould, smoke, bacteria, viruses, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and pet dander.

Good air quality is also important when it comes to sleeping well – especially as we spend around a third of our lives asleep. This is where air purifiers can help. The Blueair HealthProtect 747Oi model is Quiet Mark certified. With HEPASilent technology it is whisper-silent so you can sleep peacefully – and breathe easily – without the worry of being disturbed.

For more solutions to unwanted noise, visit Quiet Mark’s Acoustics Academy at quietmark.com

To discover more about Quiet Mark’s work on noise pollution visit them online. You can also find out more about the importance of managing sound with the intriguing Quiet Mark podcast.