Whether it’s the clunky rumble of a compressor motor, the deafening whine of a vacuum cleaner, or the clank and clatter of buttons and zippers tumbling in clothes dryer, appliance noise can be annoying. People are more aware of it than ever before, and consumer magazines that test and rate appliances often include noise as a factor. As a result, consumers increasingly include noise level ratings as an important part of the appliance purchase decision. Consumers want their appliances to be like the movie heroes of yesterday. They like the strong, silent type. Quiet suggests quality.