Quiet Vacuum Cleaner

[IAmZlatan]

Hi guys,

Any quiet but relatively strong vacuum cleaner to recommend?

Don't wanna disturb my baby when he's sleeping but I heard quieter ones usually aren't so strong.

Thanks~~

 

[Ark Law]

I'm assuming you're referring to conventional corded vacuums. Noise of a vacuum cleaner is mainly due to 3 parts; motor, airflow path, floor nozzle.

Older motors can sometimes be quieter (bigger fan = lower RPM = lower noise) than newer motors (smaller fan = higher RPM to compensate for lower airflow = higher noise). In addition, while some motors may be lower wattage and have a lower dB rating, bear in mind sound signature plays a huge part in perceived noise. 80dB low pitch is going to be less distracting than an 80dB high pitch.

That said, for most quality vacuums, their motor noise are well insulated that airflow is the main noise generator. The first video shows comparison between motors (yellow: 1500W 1990s motor, white: 2200W 2013 motor, brown: 1200W motor). The second video demonstrates how the airflow throughout the hose and floorhead contributes greater towards overall noise than the motor itself.

I normally use the 2nd lowest setting, 3rd lowest when the bag is near full, lowest when vacuuming at night. Best you head to any of the big box's megastore outlet (regular outlets tend to have very little variety and physical space) to get a proper test drive.

Do note that vacuum noise will sound differently in an open store vs empty HDB room vs HDB room with barang barang in it. Afaik, the quietest in the market should be the black-green Electrolux UltraSilencer. Though at $300-$350, its plastic quality is more of those from sub $200 vacuums and the fact it uses standard rear wheels instead of 360 degree castors makes its maneuverability underwhelming. Dyson vacuums tend to be high pitch screamers and they have no adjustment options.

 

[cis2910]

Hi guys,

Any quiet but relatively strong vacuum cleaner to recommend?

Don't wanna disturb my baby when he's sleeping but I heard quieter ones usually aren't so strong.

Thanks~~

I used to own an Electrolux D730, when it finally gave up its life after 20 years of usage, I bought a new Electrolux ZUSG4061 (UltraSilencer Green) 1 yr ago at S$320. Now it is selling below S$300.

It operate at 61db and yet its suction is strong, very quiet when vacuuming.

Anyway, since there are many brand of vacuum cleaners come with low noise level nowaday, so you better test out its suction power and noise level at HN/Best Denki or Courts before commit to buy.

 

[Ark Law]

Anyway, since there are many brand of vacuum cleaners come with low noise level nowaday, so you better test out its suction power and noise level at HN/Best Denki or Courts before commit to buy.

Yes, it is important to really test out the a vacuum in a store. Don't be pressured by salesman. Take your time, use and move around the vacuum complete with the hose and wand.

Is the hose long enough?
Is the holding position of the wand ergonomic?
Is the wand light enough to use single handedly?
Does the hose swivel on both ends to avoid squishing itself?
Does the vacuum keep hitting your legs as you pull it along?
Does the vacuum follow easily?
Does the vacuum tip over when you do a sudden turn?
How does the vacuum react when it hits an obstacle?
How easy is it to maneuver around furniture?
How noisy is it at various power levels?
How noisy is it on hard floors?
How noisy is it on carpets?
Where are filters, hidden ones especially, to look out for and clean regularly (important for bagless)?

Many things to look out for. Suction level for most of the decent vacuums on the market are already overkill anyway. What's needed for effective fine dust removal is airflow, not suction.

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[IAmZlatan]

Oh, thank you for your help!

I saw the Electrolux UltraSilencer Green but I was wondering if the Dyson was quieter and cleaner

 

[Ark Law]

Oh, thank you for your help!

I saw the Electrolux UltraSilencer Green but I was wondering if the Dyson was quieter and cleaner

Like I said, from experience, Dyson are high pitch whiny machines which are no different from $150 cheapie vacuums. This is part of their design philosophy where a strong noise signature and futuristic looks presents a strong appeal to in-store customers. Listen to the difference for yourself;

(skip to 6:10, not the exact machine but pretty close)

(skip to 5:30)

 

[IAmZlatan]

Like I said, from experience, Dyson are high pitch whiny machines which are no different from $150 cheapie vacuums. This is part of their design philosophy where a strong noise signature and futuristic looks presents a strong appeal to in-store customers. Listen to the difference for yourself;

(skip to 6:10, not the exact machine but pretty close)

(skip to 5:30)

Ah, thank you. I was thinking of the cordless Dyson actually. Haha

 

[Ark Law]

Ah, thank you. I was thinking of the cordless Dyson actually. Haha

If you've got lots of money, go for it

Cordless either go for very cheap (Dibea) or expensive (Gtech, Dyson). In "between" cordless by Bosch, Philips, Electrolux etc aren't worthy imo.

The cordless Dysons are quieter, but they do have an annoying high pitch tonality. For the price of a V10, you could get a V6 (or V8 from Carousell) + Electrolux UltraSilencer/Miele C3.