insulating a speed queen washer

[esty]

Hi, I would like advice on how to insulate my speed queen awn 542 washing machine. I've read on this site that it can be done to avoid hearing the rattling and vibrating noises. I would like to know what to buy, where to get it, and how to install it. My laundry room is right off my kitchen and I can hear every noise it makes. There are some noises that I really don't mind, however some rattling sounds, and ticking sounds from the motor, I can do without.

Thank you!

 

[frigilux]

The only solution is for the components not to make those sounds in the first place. Insulating the cabinet won't really help and I strongly suggest you don't put insulation around any components.

If owning an old-school, traditional toploader is what you want, it's probably best to just learn to live with the sounds the machine makes.

 

[richnz]

I've insulated three front loading machines

And boy did it make a difference.
I used thick felt (It's what many manufacturers use) and it worked very well to mask the motor noise (except at spin where its impossible to hide). The felt was approximately 1 inch thick.

If I lived in a country with more affordable hardware stores (New Zealand does not have such a thing), then I would experiment with peel and seal type solutions also.

Yes, I know this is a teenager applying it to a car however when he taps the shelf, it does sound much better.

 

[bwoods]

insulating

I believe John L. (Combo52) used carpet padding to sound insulate his 1 - 18. Is that correct, John? I have used the roofing mastic, in the video, which I bought from Home Depot to sound dampen dishwasher tubs and doors, and it does help.

The viscous asphaltic material converts sound vibration to heat energy. I have also used it to quiet rattles in HVAC ductwork in my previous home and it worked like a charm.

No need to spend large bucks on sound dampening sheets like "Dynamat" when you can get the roofing rolls at Home Depot at about a 1/10 of the cost. I think I paid under $20 a roll for the gutter patch and it worked nearly as well as the Dynamat sheets I have used.

 

[washman]

The sounds a SQ makes

is music to my ears.

Well, when I'm not listening to Kiss Alive II anyway!

 

[yogitunes]

water heater wraps work well, and so does egg crate foam for insulation.....

even sliding a piece underneath will dampen down echo sounds from a machine, washer or dryer....

 

[esty]

Thank you all for your suggestions. Where should I put the insulation? Should I tape it up on the inside of the cabinet? I'll try sliding some insulation under the washer also. That's an easy fix idea.
Thanks!

 

[logixx]

I folded an old, thick flannel sheet and placed it in the bottom of my Duet. It's been there for two years; no problem.