Everyone has experienced the frustration of a noisy appliance, and it seems like the sound is always happening at the most inconvenient times. Luckily, with a little know-how and some patience, most of these obnoxious sounds can be eliminated. Here are three common household noises and how to get rid of them:
Noisy Brakes
If your car's brakes are squeaking or grinding when you apply them, it's time to address the noise. Start by checking your brake pads for wear and tear, as this could be the cause of the noise. If the pads are in good condition, try lubricating the caliper slides and backing plates with a high-temperature brake grease to eliminate the sound. If that doesn't work, it might be time to replace your brakes altogether.
Noisy Refrigerator
A noisy refrigerator can be a major annoyance, but it's usually an easy fix. Start by pulling the fridge away from the wall and checking for any loose parts. If everything is secure, the noise is likely coming from the evaporator fan, which can become clogged with ice or debris over time. Turn off the power to your fridge and remove the back panel to access the fan. Clean it thoroughly and ensure it's functioning properly before putting everything back together.
Annoying Home Noises
If you're sick and tired of hearing random noises around your house, it's time to take action. Here are a few common sounds and their solutions:
- Creaky Floorboards: Sprinkle talcum powder or graphite powder between the creaky boards to quiet them down.
- Squeaky Door Hinges: Apply a drop of oil or WD-40 to the hinges to lubricate them and eliminate the noise.
- Dripping Faucets: Tighten the faucet's packing nut or replace the worn-out washer to stop the drip-drip-drip.
- Banging Pipes: Install foam insulation around your pipes to reduce the sound of water hammer.
Noise can be a major source of stress and irritation, but thankfully, most sounds can be eliminated with a little DIY know-how. Whether you're dealing with squeaky brakes, a noisy fridge, or just a bunch of random sounds around your house, don't hesitate to take action and put an end to the noise once and for all.
