By Stoney Tark
The Main Causes Of Noise
Most grow lights may produce very little noise or use a lightly powered cooling fan. However, it is the inline fans that will make the most noise. The job of the inline fan is to suck air from the charcoal filter through to the fan, then to remove the air outside of the tent. The actual fans themselves, when plugged in, can be very loud and almost sound as if an industrial vacuum cleaner had been switched on. After adding ducting, the sound of the air that is being passed through the fan and the ducting will make an intense blowing sound that can make a first-time grower feel uneasy about that suspect sound.
You may have searched online for super silent fans, yet have been left disappointed at how loud these fans are. There are some manufacturers who make extremely quiet fans that incorporate acoustic technology, yet they can be highly expensive. Once you fire up your intake, outtake, and oscillating fans, the rising noise can be unpleasant especially if spending much time in your garden. On the other hand that may be the least of your worries but having close-by neighbors unaware of your grow room is the end goal.
The sound of air blowing against a particular surface is different from the sound produced by vibration and reverberation passing through a floor or wall. One of the biggest reasons for uncontrollable noise pollution is equipment that is not effectively connected to the wall or roof of the tent. How an RVK fan is suspended or mounted can be a difference maker in removing an annoying humming sound that is passed through the floorboards above and below.
Silencers
In the music industry, all recording studios will be equipped with soundproofed rooms. You will have seen the grey/black pyramid sponge walls which are designed to absorb sound, enhancing the recording quality and overall experience. The same concepts can be applied to growing Cannabis indoors and will help reduce noise dramatically in many cases.
The way these silencers work is by connecting them to the output side of the T.T or R.V.K fan and removing volumes through an acoustic filter. If noise is a particular problem, using a silencer on both sides of an outtake fan will seriously kill the noise and cause the air being removed to be blown out at a much quieter rate, without any loss in power and efficiency from your unit.
Acoustic Ducting
This describes the aluminum ducting with an inlined insulation. Usually, a yellow or white colored fiber that, if well-made, will not cause itching or any discomfort. As the air passes through the ducting, it is absorbed by the insulation. The sound of the air is very low in comparison to a blast of air rattling through a non-insulated ducting. The price difference between standard and acoustic ducting may be almost double or treble in price, yet it is definitely worth the investment.
Soundproof Boxes
Basically, a wooden box that is designed to fit an RVK fan and be closed off with a soundproof interior. The benefit of these boxes is that once closed off and connecting ducting is attached, the sound made by the high powered fan is dramatically reduced. These boxes can then be mounted on top of a grow tent allowing for further room inside the tent for lights and fans. I have also seen large-sized acoustic wooden cases suspended from ceilings with secured fittings, which are often used for large sized operations where sound must be considered.
What is great about these boxes is they are very easy to make at home, as long as you have the correct tools and soundproof lining to install. The actual case does not have to be wooden although this will produce the most efficient design with the most integrity. You could even make a smaller soundproof box for a T.T fan if you are not using an R.V.K which would be extremely effective.
Top Tips On Noise Reduction
If you can incorporate acoustic ducting with two silencers to your existing outtake fan, then you can immediately reduce the noise to a comforting level. Furthermore, if you are able to invest in all three of the acoustic aids, then the sound can be unbelievably discreet. For those growers who are using passive cooled lights, then the actual grow room can be almost silent and, for bedroom growers, the lack of sound and vibration allows them to relax in the comfort of their own home much more easily. It may cost quite a lot to invest in ducting, silencer and soundproof boxes, however, the peace of mind that is provided is well worth the initial investment.
Sometimes things as simple as raising fans off the floor onto a padded foam cushion can help remove vibrations and reverberation. Installing wall fans can also cause a great deal of noise, which is fine if in a large warehouse scenario. However, if working within close proximity of a public building, then thinking twice about mounting wall fans may be a good idea. Overall controlling the smells and sounds from your grow is what will make you a good, discreet grower who is considerate and tries to be a good neighbor.