Where to Rent a Decibel Meter in Sacramento
You can rent a sound level meter (decibel meter) in Sacramento at these locations:
Public Library (Free/Low Cost)
- Sacramento Public Library – Library of Things – Check out a decibel meter for up to 3 weeks with a library card. Search catalog for "sound level meter" or "decibel meter." Branches: Central, Arcade, Belle Cooledge, Colonial Heights, etc.
Home Improvement Stores (Daily/Weekly Rental)
- Home Depot – Tool rental center. Models: Extech, General Tools. ~$30–50/day.
- Lowe's – Tool rental. Similar pricing/selection.
- Ace Hardware – Select locations (call ahead).
Party/Event Supply
- Party City – Some locations rent meters for event noise compliance.
Specialty / Pro Options
- Rental houses: United Rentals, Sunbelt, Herc Rentals – professional Type 1/2 meters ($100+/day).
- Online rental: LensRentals, BorrowLenses – mail-order calibrated meters.
What to Ask Before Renting
- Rental rate (day/week/month)
- Deposit required
- Calibration date/certificate (critical for legal/official use)
- Type 1 (precision) vs. Type 2 (general purpose)
- Included: windscreen, tripod mount, carrying case, manual
Best first stop: Sacramento Public Library – free, calibrated, easy.