For many locations, the noise output of an electric hand dryer is one of the most important factors. Locations where the users are very young, like nurseries, primary schools or children’s attractions, specifiers and buildings managers need to make sure the hand dryer is quiet. The same can be said for locations that cater for the elderly and some autistic people. If you consider that broad range of people and add in facilities that are noise sensitive like libraries, schools, offices, disabled and baby change washrooms etc then how quiet the hand dryer is a consideration for most locations.
We actually advocate a quieter hand dryer option in all washrooms with signage so that people have the choice which to use. Rather than needing to buy 2 different products, a hand dryer with an adjustable motor speed is often a good idea. This allows uniformity but the flexibility to modify each dryer to different areas of the building. A good example would be a primary school with a nursery attached or in a shopping centre where we would advise positioning one unit at a lower height for children and reducing the noise output.
When considering how quiet a hand dryer needs to be, it is also worth noting that for some facilities, like nurseries, it is the noise level for the user, whereas in other locations it is the noise transfer i.e. how far the noise travels. For example, this could be an issue in toilets near office meeting rooms.
Another consideration for those in charge of selecting the right product is how the noise level has been recorded. There is no standardised testing that manufacturers must adhere to, therefore some measure from 1 metre, some from 2 and some don’t even disclose how it was measured. Decibel levels are a highly unreliable guide for specifiers to work on. Noise levels will vary according to the acoustics of the location they are in, most manufacturer’s tests are done in an anechoic (sound proof chamber) so there is no additional noise. Anything around 68-75 dB(A) when actually in use in a real situation, represents a quiet performing dryer.
Although this blog is titled ‘The top 5 quietest hand dryers in 2019’, it is actually the top 5 quietest and effective hand dryers. I see little point in producing an article of quiet but ineffective dryers. The Warner Howard SM48 is a very quiet and low-cost dryer, as such contractors and architects have historically selected the product for many jobs. The reality is that it’s probably only suitable for an open plan nursery because its so slow to dry hands, one contractor described it to us as like ‘an asthmatic mouse blowing on your hand.’
Don’t worry there are lots of effective and quiet hand dryers on the market now. Here are the top 5, in no particular order, please read the descriptions to understand which is right for your location. A number of these dryers have been approved by the quiet mark, an independent body affiliated with the noise abatement society, set up to create a standard for pleasant commercial and household products.
This dryer has a quiet setting and a regular setting. Although it may not seem really quiet in use it has been engineered to virtually eliminate any noise transfer through walls. The sound quality is also very smooth. This is a popular choice for Universities and schools due to the low noise, reliability, energy efficiency and speed of drying. It still dries in 11 seconds, 18 seconds on the reduced noise setting. The Decibels are recorded at 58 to 62 dB(A) however this is from 2 metres so this would roughly translate into 68 to 72 dB(A) from 1 metre. This increases a little when the hands are placed under the dryer.
- The Dryflow Elite
Another quiet mark listed dryer which is very popular in primary schools, children’s museums and offices. The Dryflow Elite uses traditional warm air drying but achieves more satisfactory dry times. The result is the noise doesn’t increase as much when the hands are placed under the dryers. Its ADA/DDA compliant so perfect for disabled washrooms. The noise output is 69 to 71 dB(A) when the hands are actually placed under the dryer and in real life situations.
- The Mitsubishi Slim
If you are looking for a quiet, hands under dryer then the Mitsubishi Slim offers the same benefits of anti-vibration, sound absorbing technology that the Misubishi SMART offers.
- Dryflow Classic PLUS II
A great combination of low sound output, quick drying (18 seconds to hygienic dry, less for small hands), energy efficiency, incredible motor life and low noise output. Another Quiet mark approved product.
- Stealthforce PLUS
Another quiet mark awarded product, measured at 70-75 dB(A) depending on the sped setting. The Stealthforce is a great balance of creating little noise transfer and also being very quiet in use. A stress free but quick drying experience in 15 seconds.
The Dryflow models mentioned above are quieter 'in use' than the Mitsubishi, however the Mitsubishi’s transfer less noise still to surrounding areas, which is often the most important factor.
We strongly recommend that when you have significant concerns over the noise that you test dryers in the location first. We are happy to assist with this. For a full list check out our specialist quiet hand dryer section. Please call us to book a test or for more guidance on 0330 1244717.
