What Are Decibels?
Decibels (dB) measure sound pressure level, a logarithmic scale that describes the loudness or intensity of sound and other noise sources. Every sound is measured in a range of decibels, from 0 dB (the threshold of human hearing) to 130 dB (the loudest sound humans can tolerate without pain).
Why Is Commercial Refrigeration Louder Than Domestic Refrigeration?
Commercial refrigeration is usually louder than domestic refrigeration due to the type of compressor systems used in commercial fridges and freezers. Commercial refrigeration uses compressor-based techniques, which require more power than domestic refrigerators, resulting in louder noise levels.
To learn more about the difference between commercial and domestic refrigeration, check out our article on Commercial Refrigeration and Noise Levels.
Different Types Of Refrigeration
Most commercial refrigerators operate with a compressor system, so they constantly run to keep food chilled or frozen. The compressor sucks in warm air, cools, and expels it from the back or side. A compressor system makes them more energy-efficient than absorption refrigerators but also louder.
Compact refrigerators for domestic settings also use a compressor system. Without getting too technical, compression works by vaporising a liquid called a refrigerant and moving it through coils or tubes when air from the refrigerator compartment is blown through the loops ("box air"). You probably recognise a low buzzing sound from your kitchen. The compressor motor, which pumps the vaporised liquid through the coils, makes that noise. There may also be a very small amount of sound from the fan's movement. Systems are larger and more powerful in commercial equipment hence will be louder than domestic appliances.
Another commercial option is remote refrigeration. As the actual working part of the refrigeration system (and the bit that makes the noise) is situated away from where food is stored or displayed, noise levels can be reduced in commercial kitchens and on public shop floor areas.
Because they can often drop the interior temperature to 20 degrees lower than the ambient temperature, thermoelectric fridges, such as a 15-litre small fridge, are ideal for short-term use. These refrigerators, which employ a pump to move heat from one side instead of a compressor, can cool and warm food. Additionally, because there is no liquid involved in the cooling process, there is no bubbling sound; instead, there is only the background hum of the fan at the back of the refrigerator. A thermoelectric refrigerator is an excellent fast, portable cooling device option.
Why Do Decibels Matter?
Decibels matter because they determine how comfortable the environment is for customers and staff in a typical public setting with the usual activity, conversations, a bit of background music, and general chatter. Commercial refrigeration noise will not be that noticeable in these social or working conditions such as busy catering kitchens, a shop floor or a pub or bar.
Commercial refrigeration will be significantly more noticeable in quiet meeting areas, for example, or in a domestic setting. Nothing is more annoying than the constant buzz of an appliance when you're trying to concentrate.
Decibel Comparison Chart
Below is how we interpret what decibels sound like...
| Decibels (dB) | Noise Comparison |
| 0 dB | no noticeable noise - nearly silent |
| 10 dB | rustling leaves, whispering |
| 20 dB | ticking of a watch, quiet library |
| 30 dB | hushed conversation, whispers |
| 40 dB | average domestic sounds like background music or tv |
| 50 dB | general discussions or exchanges in a cafe/restaurant |
| 60 dB | a standard two to three people conversation |
| 70 dB | a washing machine or dishwasher while in use |
| 80 dB | traffic, lawnmower or hairdryer |
Commercial Refrigeration Noise Levels
The average commercial refrigerator operates between 45 dB and 75 decibels; most domestic fridges range from 32db to 47dB. The louder the refrigerator, the more disruptive it may be in a shared workplace or if it's in a quiet residential area.
Can You Reduce The Sound Of A Commercial Fridge?
While the majority of the sound is just a natural by-product of the compressor and fans working to chill your unit, there are things that you can check which may be causing excessive noise.
Things to consider - is your refrigerator levelled correctly? Also, it's worth checking for loose fittings, such as shelves, internal loose fittings, doors, or handles.
Consider investing in soundproofing panels, if appropriate, which can significantly reduce noise levels. Panels can minimise sound leakage while allowing ventilation so the unit does not overheat – this should reduce the decibel level to below 50 dB.
If you need help finding a commercial refrigerator that suits your needs and noise level requirements, contact us for expert advice.
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