Many household items, including laundry machines, dishwashers, and food processors, typically have a high noise level. However, a vacuum cleaner is one of the loudest appliances in the home, producing a loud noise that’s frightening to pets and startling to anyone who doesn’t expect it.
Whether you’re using a handheld vacuum, a shop vacuum, an upright model, or one of the best vacuum cleaners on the market, noise is a recurring issue for most of them.
Common Reasons Why Your Vacuum Cleaner Makes Loud Noise
There are various reasons why your vacuum cleaner produces a loud noise, especially when there is a noticeable increase in loud sounds over time. Some of the reasons for a grinding or noisy vacuum cleaner include the following:
- The materials, specifically the outer casing of a vacuum cleaner, may rattle at higher suction levels, vibrating, creating a loud noise. This noise may include the combined movement of other components, including a brush roller, the motor, and other mechanisms
- The type of motor may cause the vacuum to produce a loud noise, such as a whirling sound or grinding noise
- Changes in air pressure or using the vacuum cleaner at a high volume, where increased suction power occurs, or a different attachment is used
- Vacuum cleaners tend to create more noise when used on bare floors
Early vacuum models were manual, with each vacuum cleaner quieter, though less efficient. In time, the manual vacuum introduced electronic machines with powerful suction and cleaning results.
While newer vacuum cleaner models improve dirt and debris removal, many products produce a loud sound, grinding, or whirling noise.
When a Noisy Vacuum Cleaner Requires Servicing or Repairs
There are common reasons when a noisy vacuum requires attention, either because maintenance is needed or a vacuum bag is changed. Some of the most common reasons for increased sound include the following:
- The vacuum may be broken and require maintenance or a part replacement, impacting airflow, suction, or a faulty motor.
- Excessive noise may occur with a blockage due to dirty filters, a full dust bag, or excessive dust inside the machine’s mechanisms.
- There may be a blockage or issues with suction in the air filter or air outlet, which can lessen the performance of the vacuum cleaner.
It’s crucial to empty the dust bag regularly and check all the parts of your vacuum to ensure no areas are prone to blockage or airflow restrictions. These areas include the brush roll, hose, brush attachment, filter, and other parts where dust is easily collected or suctioned into the vacuum.
If you’re able to clear a blockage, change the dust bag, and confirm that all parts are in good working order, your vacuum will continue to function well for many years. If a whistling noise or other issues persist, it’s best to bring your vacuum to a professional for further assistance.
The Quieter Experience with Modern Vacuum Cleaners
There are quieter vacuum cleaners and modern, automatic cleaners that handle all the dirt removal with less noise in recent years. New vacuum models include the Canister vacuum, Dyson’s cutting-edge vacuum models, Roomba products, Shark vacuum, and many more. While an older, noisy model doesn’t reflect on poor quality or results, many new options offer a quieter experience in a smaller size.
While modern vacuum cleaners offer reduced noise, improved engineering, and reconfiguring how the parts work together, including the motor, fan, suction, and attachments, even the best vacuum options are not without noise.
Specialty products, such as the shop vac, bladeless fan models, and small, automatic machines, are growing and can reduce noise while working effectively.
Bottom Line
Investing in a new vacuum is an excellent idea if you’re looking for a green model, such as a bagless cleaner, more durable materials, and a more straightforward option. You’ll find lots of quality machines available with reduced sound while offering the same or better level of cleaning for your home.
