Ethan Clarke
Noisy clocks can be a source of distraction, especially when trying to concentrate or relax. The tick-tock sound is produced by the internal mechanical construction, specifically the escapement gear, which sets and resets with each swing of the pendulum, moving the second hand forward and causing the familiar sound. While some may find comfort in the ticking of a clock, there are several methods to reduce the noise, including sound insulation, lubrication, and purchasing a new, non-ticking clock. The choice of method depends on the type of clock and personal preference, with options ranging from temporary fixes to more involved solutions like opening the clock to oil the gears or replacing it entirely.
Characteristics and Values Table for Quieting Noisy Clocks with Plastic Gears
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Insulation with sound-absorbing materials | Acoustic dampening foam, glass case, or a solid object to cover the clock |
| Lubrication | Silicone oil, clock oil, motor oil, or silicone brake fluid (avoid WD-40 and grease) |
| Gear adjustment | Removing or adjusting the second hand, ensuring centered motor |
| Clock replacement | Non-ticking clocks, such as Bramwell Brown's weather clocks |
| Temporary solutions | Stopping the clock, placing it in a refrigerator |
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What You'll Learn
Use sound-insulating material to cover the clock
If you want to quieten a noisy clock without opening it up or replacing it, one option is to cover it with a sound-insulating material. This method is simple and effective, but you will need to decide whether the material is transparent or not, depending on whether you need to be able to read the time.
One of the best transparent materials for insulating sound is glass. Glass is a very acoustically reflective material, which means that sound has a difficult time travelling through it compared to other materials such as wood.
If you don't mind not being able to read the time on your clock, you could also try using acoustic dampening foam to cover your clock. You can buy inexpensive sheets of foam and shape them into a case that can be placed over the clock. This option is safe, as you won't need to worry about the clock breaking or destroying anything else if it falls.
There are many other soundproofing materials available on the market, including acoustic membranes, resilient sound channels, mineral wool insulation, spray foam insulation, and mass-loaded vinyl. When choosing a soundproofing material, consider your specific needs and the type and amount of surface area to be covered. For example, if you are covering a large surface area, you may want to choose a material that is easy to install.
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Oil the gears
If you have a noisy clock with plastic gears, one way to reduce the sound is to oil the gears. Before you begin, note that some clock owners advise against lubricating clocks with quartz movements as these have plastic components that may not respond well to oil. If you have a clock manual, it may contain diagrams and maintenance tips to keep your clock in good working shape and running quietly.
To oil the gears, you will first need to open up your clock. You will need some clock oil, a few simple tools, and possibly a magnifying glass and a strong light, depending on the size of your clock. Silicone oil is a good option as it is compatible with more plastics than motor oil and is available on eBay and from auto parts stores. Do not use a substitute oil like WD-40 as this can ruin the gears.
Once you have opened up your clock, use a toothpick to apply the oil to the gears. You may also want to refer to your clock manual to identify the gears that need lubrication. After oiling the gears, you can reassemble your clock and test if the ticking has been reduced.
In addition to oiling the gears, you may also want to consider inserting foam padding inside your clock to further dampen the sound.
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Insert foam padding
If you want to quieten a noisy clock with plastic gears, one option is to insert foam padding. This method is relatively quick and inexpensive. You will need to dismantle the clock to expose its gears. To do this, locate the screws at the backplate of the clock and take them off to detach the plate. Once you have exposed the gears, oil them with a small amount of clock oil—a special, thinner oil that usually comes in a spray for easy application. You can also use a medicine dropper or the end of a toothpick to apply the oil. After oiling the gears, wait around 15 minutes before inserting foam padding to help block the sound. Place the foam inside the body of the clock, add the back panel, and hang the clock back on the wall. The ticking sound should be noticeably reduced.
There are a few different types of foam that you can use to quieten your clock. One option is Auralex Acoustics Studiofoam Wedgies Acoustic Absorption Foam, which is commonly used in sound studios. If you don't want to cover your clock, you can simply open it up and stuff it with acoustic foam. Glass is also an effective sound insulator, although this will cover the clock face.
While inserting foam padding can be an effective way to quieten a noisy clock, it may not be possible for all clocks. Some wall clocks have no extra space inside to accommodate the foam. Additionally, this method may not make the clock completely silent.
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Purchase a new, non-ticking clock
If you're tired of listening to the incessant ticking of your clock, it might be time to purchase a new one. Luckily, there are many clocks on the market that are designed to run smoothly and quietly. Here are some things to consider when purchasing a new, non-ticking clock:
Types of Non-Ticking Clocks
Non-ticking clocks come in various types, including wall clocks, table clocks, desk clocks, and alarm clocks. Consider where you want to place your clock and what type of clock will best suit your needs.
Design and Style
Non-ticking clocks also come in a variety of designs and styles to suit different tastes and preferences. You can find modern, minimalist, vintage, and whimsical designs, as well as unique handmade pieces from sites like Etsy. Consider the overall style of the room where you'll be placing the clock and choose a design that complements it.
Price and Budget
Non-ticking clocks vary in price, ranging from affordable options under $20 to more expensive choices depending on the brand, materials, and features. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow down your options and find a clock that fits your financial needs.
Features and Functions
Some non-ticking clocks offer additional features such as weather displays, silent sweep movements, or digital displays. Decide on the features that are most important to you, whether it's extreme silence, a certain aesthetic, or extra functions.
Retailers and Reviews
You can find non-ticking clocks at various online retailers, including Amazon, Etsy, Home Depot, and specialty clock shops. Be sure to read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality, accuracy, and noise level of the clock before purchasing.
Remember, the right non-ticking clock for you will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and specific needs. Take your time to explore different options, read reviews, and consider the design, functionality, and price before making your final decision.
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Remove the second hand
If you have a noisy clock with plastic gears, there are several methods you can try to quieten it. One of the most effective methods is to remove the second hand, which can be done in a few simple steps.
Firstly, you will need to remove the tiny cap at the centre of the clock dial. This cap should only be softly pressed in, not too hard or deep, as this could impede the smooth running of the hands. Gently lift and remove the cap, taking care not to apply too much pressure.
Once the cap is removed, you can begin to take out the clock hands. The second hand should be removed first, followed by the minute hand, and then the hour hand. Be gentle and careful during this process to avoid bending the hands.
After removing the second hand, you can choose to either leave the other hands in place or take them out as well. If you decide to remove them, simply place them back one by one, pointing to twelve, before gently putting the tiny cap back in place.
By removing the second hand, you will significantly reduce the ticking noise of the clock. This method is especially useful if the second hand is vibrating or loose, which can cause the ticking sound to become more prominent.
It is important to note that this solution may not completely eliminate the ticking noise, as the other gears and hands still contribute to the sound. However, removing the second hand can considerably reduce the overall volume, making it a worthwhile option for those seeking a quieter timepiece.
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Frequently asked questions
There are a few simple ways to quiet a noisy clock, including covering it with a sound-insulating material such as glass or foam, oiling the gears, or purchasing a new, non-ticking clock.
It is recommended to use appropriate clock oil or silicone oil for lubricating clock gears. Substitute oils like WD-40 or grease can damage the gears.
Yes, if you are hesitant to open your clock or apply oil, you can try creating a case or cover made of sound-insulating materials such as glass or acoustic dampening foam.
A noisy clock could be due to several factors, including the position of the clock, the weight of the second hand, or the need for lubrication in the gears. Refer to your clock manual for maintenance instructions to identify potential causes and solutions.
