Blenders are a common household appliance found in many kitchens. They provide a quick and easy way to blend, puree, and mix ingredients. However, one of the most common complaints about blenders is that they can be very loud when in use. There are several reasons why blenders generate so much noise, as well as some tips for dampening the sound.
What Causes Blender Noise
There are a few key components of a blender that contribute to the high noise levels:
Motor
The motor is what powers the blender and spins the blades. More powerful motors with higher wattages allow the blender to handle tougher ingredients, but they also generate more noise. Motions with wattages of 500-1500+ watts produce a substantial amount of noise when ramping up to high speeds.
Blades
The sharp blades are what cut and chop the ingredients in the blender jar. The high-speed rotation of the stainless steel blades causes them to vibrate and create a buzzing noise.
Jar Material
Most blender jars are made of either plastic or glass. Plastic jars tend to amplify the sounds from the motor and blades, while heavy glass jars help dampen vibration and noise.
Loose Parts
Any loose parts on the blender can also contribute to noise. Things like loose lid clasps, unsecured jar pads, or even small air gaps in the lid can allow more sound to escape.
Factors That Influence Blender Noise
There are also several factors that impact just how noisy your blender becomes when you use it:
Speed Setting
Higher speed settings make the motor work harder and spin the blades faster. This increases the noise generated significantly. Lower speeds are quieter, but may not blend ingredients as effectively.
Load Size
A full jar creates more resistance for the blades to work against, making the motor labor more. Smaller loads are quieter. Overloading the jar can cause strain and more vibration.
Contents
What you put in the blender also impacts sound levels. Thick, dense ingredients like ice or frozen fruits require more power to break down, increasing noise. Liquids and soft foods blend more quietly.
Jar Design
Short wide jars direct noise outwards, while tall narrow jars contain more sound inside. Curved jar walls also help minimize vibration compared to straight sides.
Blender Age
As a blender ages, normal wear on bearings, motor windings, and moving parts can make it louder over time. Well-used blenders tend to generate more noise than new models.
Ways to Reduce Blender Noise
If your blender seems excessively loud, there are a few ways you can help reduce the noise it generates:
Use Lower Speeds
Only use higher speed settings when absolutely necessary. Lower speeds produce less noise. Pulse instead of leaving it on max speed.
Smaller Loads
Fill the jar halfway or less when blending. Too much volume strains the motor and amplifies sound.
Maintenance
Clean the jar, blades, and gasket regularly to optimize performance. Keep parts tight and lubricated. Replace worn parts.
Location
Place a towel under the blender base to absorb vibration. Don’t blend right next to walls or corners that can amplify sound.
Cover It
Drape a towel over the blender when in use to muffle noise. Specialized jar covers can also direct sound downward.
Noise Reducing Mat
Anti-vibration mats positioned under the blender help dampen noise and vibration.
Upgrade Parts
Aftermarket sound enclosure shields, noise dampening jar pads, and anti-noise lids can all reduce blender noise.
Tips for a Quieter Blender
Follow this advice when using your blender to keep noise levels lower:
- Pulse instead of running it continuously at high speeds
- Cut food into smaller pieces before blending
- Crush ice before adding to blender
- Start on low speed and gradually increase
- Avoid overloading the jar
- Stop and stir contents occasionally
- Use noise dampening accessories
- Keep blender parts properly maintained
Buying a Quieter Blender
If your current blender is just too loud, it may be time to consider a new model designed to blend more quietly. Here’s what to look for when shopping:
Motor Power
Seek blenders with motors closer to 1 HP or less. More power often means more noise.
Quality Materials
Heavy duty plastic or glass jars help muffle vibration. Brushed stainless steel housing also dampens noise.
Noise Reduction Features
Look for terms like “whisper quiet” or “sound enclosure” which indicate technologies to dampen noise.
Reviews
Read reviews and decibel ratings to compare noise levels across blenders in your price range.
Warranty
A longer warranty often signifies a more durable and better quality blender.
Quiet Blender Recommendations
Here are some top rated quiet blender models to consider:
| Blender | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Vitamix 5300 | Aircraft-grade stainless steel blades, sound enclosure, 90-95 decibels |
| Blendtec Professional 800 | Wildside+ jar, 90 decibels, 8 year warranty |
| Cleanblend Commercial Blender | 1800 watt motor, noise reduction technology, 96 decibels |
| Mueller Austria Ultra-Stick 9-Speed | Borosilicate glass jar, precision motor, budget price |
| Hamilton Beach Professional 1500W | Heavy duty motor, variable speed, sound-reducing gasket |
Conclusion
Blenders make noise due to factors like motor power, blade speed, jar material, and the ingredients being blended. But steps can be taken to reduce unwanted blender noise through proper use, maintenance, accessories, and choosing quieter models. With some simple fixes, you can continue enjoying smoothies, sauces, and more without excess noise disruption.
