Neighbored complained about my knockbox :

[cybrok]

Hi gents

So here it is. I live in a block with really poor sound insulation, and the super just told me she had complaints about a "knocking sound in the morning". Even from a half deaf guy.

Maybe you had similar complains from your neighbors or even wives.

Any idea other than using a butter knife and tons of water?

 

[Commander Quan]

The only reasonable solution is to crank up some Judas Priest so that the neighbors can't hear you making coffee.

 

[Kazeryu]

I had to google to find out what a knockbox was, but something with a rubberized bar might help - like this: http://www.idrinkcoffee.com/Concept_Art_Basic_Knockbox_Red_p/ca-kb-bas-red.htm

Alternately, swaddle the sides and bottom of the knockbox with a fluffly towel to minimize noise?

 

[cybrok]

It's the exact one I have, I even put it on my tamping mat to knock out the puck. Yup, insulation is that bad.

 

[Kazeryu]

In that case I'd suggest a nice floppy silicone spatula, but I'm hardly an expert.

 

[StillShaving]

Interesting observation from your neighbors. I don't have any great ideas, you could try using the palm of your hand but that doesn't work if the puck is still hot. Banging on the inside of a plastic trash can might make less noise too, or maybe not.

 

[Lather]

I have a Motta knock box and it is still loud. It has a rubber base and a thick beater bar and it shakes the whole counter. Maybe try a towel under the knock box. Try offering him a cappuccino and some ear plugs.

 

[Saxman11290]

Perhaps this is bad form, but maybe leave the puck in until later in the day and then clean up then? Doesn't change the noise level, but at least you are knocking away around dinner-time rather than whatever time you brew your morning shot

 

[Kentos]

What kind of floors do you have? What kind of walls? If you are banging on the box, that banging noise goes through
the counter, through the wall adjacent to the counter, and even through the floor- into your neighbors place.
I would try holding a small knock box aloft with one hand while knocking out your puck with the other. That way no sounds get transmitted through solid surfaces.

Hope that makes sense.

 

[Toothpick]

when i lived in an apartment I lived below a family of elephants. at random times throughout the day I would hear them walking stomping to the water hole. They also loved their lazy boy recliners, so much so that every time they got up they would slam the foot rest down. Could I have complained about this...yes. did I complain about this...no. Because they are paying to live there and they are free to live how they want within the terms of their lease. It was an apartment, there is a mutual understanding that there just might be some noise from your neighbors.

it's a knocking sound for a few minutes in the morning. not a wood shop that runs 8hrs a day.

enjoy your coffee/expresso how you see fit.