An actuator noise reducer reduces the noise output of an HVAC actuator. The noise reducer has a spring arm with a sliding bearing surface which is pressed against a side of the rotating motor shaft. The spring arm introduces a generally radial force on the motor shaft, taking up bearing play and gently pressing the motor shaft into its bearing. A cylindrical hoop mount of the noise reducer mates with and encircles a cylindrical portion of the electrical motor adjacent the shaft for mounting the actuator noise reducer on the motor by axial sliding.