Simple Solutions for the Individual
Controlling noise in your environment starts with you. Noise can easily be reduced with a few simple lifestyle changes in your home and in your community.
T
ips to reduce noise in your home
- Wear slippers, soft-soled shoes or socks indoors, particularly if floors are hard-surfaced, as regular shoes can be extremely loud.
- Put felt pads on the bottoms of chair legs.
- Use noisy appliances such as vacuums, dishwashers, clothes washers/dryers and garburators only during the daytime or early evening.
General ways to reduce the noise you make
- Carry out noisy activities during the daytime and try to avoid Sundays – the City's Noise Bylaw prohibits loud construction on Sundays and holidays.
- Ensure that stereo, video and computer game volumes and bass levels are low enough that they will not disturb neighbours.
- Use a hand mower and trimmer if your yard is not too big. They're quiet, good for the environment and great exercise.
- Devices such as weed eaters and leaf blowers should be used moderately and responsibly following the City’s Noise Bylaw.
Getting around
- Reduce your contribution to traffic noise and save gas by walking, cycling, or using public transit when possible.
- Do not illegally modify your exhaust system to make it louder.
- Drive the speed limit and avoid sudden starts and stops.
- When possible, combine your trips, and do things locally.
- Minimize idling of your car. This will reduce noise and negative environmental impacts. A modern car only needs 30 seconds to warm up.
- Don't use your audible car alarm arm/disarm indicator.
U
nlikely noise sources
When a machine makes excessive noise, it is often a sign that it is not working efficiently and/or needs maintenance. If a machine operates smoothly, with less vibration and noise, chances are it will do a better job and last longer while consuming less energy.
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