If you have a problem with a KitchenAid refrigerator making noise, it is best to find a lasting solution. Learn how to fix the problem in this article.
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KitchenAid Refrigerator Making Noise – How to Fix
Some noises from a KitchenAid refrigerator may be normal, and you must know how to differentiate between normal sounds and irregular ones. You may hear the refrigerator crackling occasionally. If it is a new installation, the noise may sound unusual, but the interior walls are contracting and expanding as the unit runs through cooling or defrost cycle.
1. Chattering Noise
A chattering noise from the refrigerator may indicate that the water line is twisted or kinked. You can inspect the water line behind the refrigerator or check the in-door water line where it applies. Straighten the pipe at the back of the unit and make space to prevent future kinking issues. Otherwise, roll the extension and clamp it on the refrigerator cabinet.
2. High-Pitched Noise
A pulsating or high-pitched noise may indicate that the fans are adjusting to the cooling cycle. You may hear the sound as a whirring or whining noise from your KitchenAid refrigerator. The condenser and evaporator fans also go off when the compressor goes off, allowing a defrost cycle to run. Both fans and compressor are part of the cooling system, and they turn off at specific times for optimum performance.
When they turn on, the fans may create a high-pitched or pulsating noise as they optimize their performance. However, the fans may squeal or screech if the motors are faulty or the blades are unbalanced. If the noise is regular and increases over time, it is best to inspect the fans and compressor to ensure there are no faults.
3. Vibrating or Rattling Noise
The refrigerator compressor can vibrate or rattle if it is unbalanced under the unit. Screws hold the compressor secure to the housing; that way, the motor does not wobble when it cycles on or off. However, if the screws become loose, the compressor vibrates or rattles loudly. The noise may also stem from an aging compressor, as the motor becomes noisy with time. Hire an appliance technician to check the compressor if you suspect the noise comes from there.
A rattling noise may also stem from the drain pan when it is loose. Typically, the pan should make no noise, but over time, the pan may get loose. Also, you may wrongly insert the pan after cleaning it, and as the refrigerator runs, it rattles, generating noise. This issue is easy to fix; remove the drain pan from under the refrigerator and reinstall it correctly. Ensure it sits securely under the unit.
Sometimes, the refrigerator rattles or vibrates as the refrigerant flows through the cooling lines. This is a normal sound you may hear as the cooling cycle turns on and the defrost cycle turns off. You may also hear the sound as water flows through the water line. Again, this sound is normal because the water flow may be high. Close the water supply valve partially if the vibrating or rattling sound is loud.
That may reduce the pressure and lower the noise. Additionally, remove items on top of the refrigerator if the unit vibrates or rattles when it cycles on and off. And level the refrigerator; improper leveling can cause the unit to rattle or vibrate during regular operation. The same applies if the floor under the appliance is uneven. In such a case, use shims under the refrigerator to create a better balance.
4. Grinding Noise
The refrigerator may make a grinding noise if the door rubs against surfaces or cabinets. It should not be a normal sound, especially if you hear it only when you open or close the refrigerator door. However, the noise may come from the fan blade rubbing against a surface or ice if it is constant. This is particularly true if the noise reduces when you open the freezer door. The condenser fan may also make this noise, and you must inspect it at the bottom back of the unit, next to the compressor and condenser coils.
Start with the evaporator fan in the freezer; there may be an accumulation of ice in the evaporator compartment. Empty the freezer and remove the rear panel to access the fan and coils. Turn off the refrigerator to thaw the fan and coils if there is a significant amount of ice in the compartment. Alternatively, use a hair dryer to mel the ice for a faster result. When ice accumulates near the fan, the blade hits it, generating a grinding noise. It is crucial to determine whether or not the defrost system is faulty and fix it because it should prevent an ice buildup on the coils.
But if the noise comes from the condenser fan, ensure the blade sits on the motor shaft. A loose blade can rub against surrounding surfaces, generating noise. Clean the blade and fix it on the shaft; apply gear oil for better lubrication. The motor must also be in good working order; otherwise, worn bearings may cause noise. Replace the blade if damaged or the motor if it has no continuity after testing it with a multimeter.
5. Hissing or Sizzling Noise
Water may drip on the defrost heater, causing a sizzling sound from the refrigerator. This is one of the common noises a refrigerator makes, and it is nothing to worry about if you hear it occasionally. Typically, a refrigerator with an automatic defrost system should turn on to warm the evaporator coils, keeping them from freezing.
However, if the noise is constant, even when the refrigerator should be cooling, it means the defrost system runs all the time. The fault may come from the components of the system, but it may also be a problem with the defrost control board or main control board. It is best to get professional help to check each part and replace the faulty ones. Otherwise, the refrigerator will stop cooling.
6. Buzzing or Humming Noise
The compressor typically hums or buzzes in a low and quiet way when it runs normally. The sound should be unobtrusive and goes off when the defrost cycle runs. But if the noise becomes too loud, it may indicate that the compressor is dirty or faulty; the same is true if you hear it all the time. You may also want to check the condenser coils for dirt; dirty condenser coils cannot efficiently remove heat from the system, causing the compressor to overheat and make noise.
Therefore, turn off the refrigerator and clean the coils and compressor. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove the loose dirt from the coils, and use a small brush to dust off the compressor. Ensure you clean the condensing unit once or twice a year to keep it in optimal condition. However, if the noise continues, the compressor may be faulty. It may not require immediately replacing the compressor, especially if the refrigerator keeps cooling as it should, and you do not mind the noise. Let a technician assess the problem and determine whether or not you need a new compressor.
Another reason for the noise is an ice maker not connected to any water supply. You may hear it constantly buzzing or humming as it unsuccessfully tries to fill with water. It is best to turn off the ice maker if it is not in use to stop the noise or connect it to the water supply. The ice maker can develop several issues if you leave it on without a steady water supply. It will lower the refrigerator’s internal temperature and cause everything to freeze, and it may eventually damage the ice maker.
7. Hammering or Thumping Noise
This noise may also be normal if you hear it when the water line supplies water to the refrigerator. The force of the water may be loud enough to generate thumping or hammering, but it should be only for a few seconds and at specific times of the day. If the noise is too loud, you may want to clear trapped air from the system by dispensing water for some minutes. Lowering the water pressure may also help to reduce the noise, but you may need a plumber to fix it.
You can learn more about refrigerator noises in specific models and areas within the appliance in this article on a KitchenAid double-door refrigerator noise.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Clicking Noise and Not Cooling – Quick Fix
Clicking noise from a refrigerator usually stems from the start relay or ice maker. Start with the ice maker; check to see if it is connected to water. If it is not, reconnect it or turn the machine off to stop the noise. You risk losing the entire ice maker assembly if it continues to run without water or find the refrigerator contents frozen.
But if the clicking sound does not come from the ice maker, check the start relay. The relay boosts the compressor to start and run and may cause it to make clicking noises when defective. The noise may also stem from the defrost timer, especially if it is faulty. This article on a KitchenAid refrigerator not cooling and making a clicking noise explains how to fix the problem.
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KitchenAid Double-Door Refrigerator Makes a Clicking Noise
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Knocking Noise – Solved
The most probable reason your Kitchenaid refrigerator makes a knocking noise is a faulty condenser fan. There are other possible reasons, such as a loose evaporator fan blade, water hammers, or when the refrigerant circulates. It may also be due to a malfunctioning compressor. Wait for the knocking sound and listen to the area from where it comes. If it is from the bottom back of the appliance, it is likely to be the condenser fan.
A buildup of dust and debris on the fan, likely due to its location, can cause the blade or motor to become noisy. Cleaning the fan may stop the noise, so turn off the refrigerator and move it to access the fan. Use a rag to wipe the dirt from the blade, motor, and the surrounding area. Turn the blade to ensure it sits well on the motor shaft. You may have to tighten it manually to secure it on the motor. But if the noise comes from the motor, it indicates failure, and you must replace it.
1. Compressor
Sometimes, the compressor becomes noisy, buzzing or humming loudly as it runs. So, check the compressor if the noise is from behind the refrigerator and if it is not the condenser fan. In this case, you may need professional assistance to check and fix the motor because it is complex.
You may not need to replace the compressor because of the noise if the refrigerator is cooling. In other words, the compressor may be good for use for the next few years. But if the refrigerator is old, the compressor is likely wearing out and may need a replacement. Otherwise, replace the entire refrigerator.
2. Evaporator Fan
The fan is in the freezer section, and if you hear a loud knocking sound that stops whenever you open the freezer, the fan’s motor may be defective. Turn off the refrigerator, empty the freezer, and remove the rear panel. Manually turn the blade to see how it works. You may have to replace it if it is stiff or generates noise. Also, test the motor, especially if the blade works well. Replace the fan motor or the entire fan assembly if the motor does not work.
3. Water Hammers
When water flows through pipes and is forced to stop flowing or change directions, it may create a loud noise that sounds like hammering. This sound is common when you turn off a valve in a refrigerator or shut off a faucet. It may be nothing to worry about unless it becomes constant; water hammers can cause issues in the refrigerator if they are not fixed. Have a plumber check the water supply system in the house and refrigerator and fix possible issues.
4. Refrigerant
You may hear knocking when the refrigerant flows through the cooling lines, which is normal. As it changes from gas to liquid and flows through the compressor and condenser, the noise may become obvious, but you can ignore it if it is low. However, if the noise becomes too loud and the refrigerator’s cooling capacity drops, contact the KitchenAid Center or employ the services of a professional for further assistance.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Gurgling Noise – Fixed
If you hear a gurgling noise from your KitchenAid refrigerator, it may be due to the refrigerant flowing through the cooling lines. Typically, the refrigerant resumes flowing through the cooling system once the refrigerator advances out of a defrost cycle. You may hear a faint gurgling sound as it flows from the compressor, through the condenser, and into the evaporator coils.
You may also hear gurgling when you open and close the refrigerator door. The sound should be faint and should stop shortly after shutting the door. As air is forced through the drain tube, water equalizes and makes this noise. You may hear it more when the weather is humid. Furthermore, the water from the defrost cycle makes a gurgling sound as it flows out of the drain. It may be loud when the day is quiet or if the day is significantly humid.
High humidity causes more condensation, which produces more water in the refrigerator. These are normal for a regular refrigerator operation if the sound comes from these areas. However, it is not normal to hear the noise when the ice maker should be filling with water. You may want to check the water supply valve to ensure it is fully open to supply water. Also, the inlet valve must be in good working condition to fill the ice mold.
If you hear a buzz when the gurgling occurs, time the flow to see if it comes from the valve. And if it is constant, you may have to check the supply and inlet valves. Also, inspect the water supply line for possible leaks. A refrigerator may gurgle if the pipe leaks; air flows into the pipe through the cracks as water flows through it, creating the sound you hear. Replace the water line or have a service technician do the job if necessary.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Jackhammer Noise – Quick Fix
The noise may come from the water line as it supplies water to the dispenser or ice maker. It should not be a worrisome sound if it is only occasional and unobtrusive. It may come from the force of suddenly turning the water off or changing the direction of its flow. But if the water line is not the noise source, you may want to check the water filter housing.
An integrated valve on the head of a filter keeps water from spraying when you remove and replace an old filter. Two small buttons actuate the valve when you install a new filter, and it presses them. So, if the filter cannot press the buttons down enough to actuate the valve, the water flow may create a loud jackhammer noise because of the lack of an outlet.
You may want to replace the filter housing, but a temporary solution is to use a small ring to create the force necessary to depress the buttons enough for the valve to actuate. Have an appliance technician check the filter head and recommend a permanent solution.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Water Dispenser Noise – Solutions
Some noises are typical when using the water dispenser on any refrigerator, including KitchenAid refrigerators. You may hear a snapping or clicking sound when you depress the lever or press the button to get water from the dispenser. The sound comes from the valve opening and closing or when the water stops flowing as you remove the glass from the nozzle. This sound is normal, and it should stop within a few seconds.
The dispenser may also buzz when the water line supplies water to the inlet valve. And when the valve supplies water to the dispenser, it may create a low buzz. It is nothing to worry about because the sound is normal; it is the sound of water flowing through the lines to the dispenser. It should stop in one minute or less.
However, if these sounds are prolonged, it may indicate a fault with the dispenser or the entire water system in the refrigerator. Inspect the dispenser, water line, and water inlet valve if you have the skill set. Alternatively, hire an appliance technician to run tests and repair possible problems.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Chirping Noise – What to Do
First, ensure the noise comes from the refrigerator. Sometimes, the smoke alarm or another device may go off due to a loose wire or old batteries. If it is close to the refrigerator, you may mistake the noise as coming from the refrigerator. But if the noise source is the refrigerator, turn it off for about five to ten minutes, and turn it on again. If the problem continues, you may need to schedule service for your refrigerator.
The noise may come from the evaporator fan; the motor may chirp if there is a problem with its functionality. Test the fan’s motor to determine whether or not the motor is defective. You may hear it when you open the freezer door, although the fan stops when the door opens. Press the door switch to activate the fan and wait for the chirping noise; if it comes, the motor may need a replacement.
Could a Water Filter Cause Noise in a KitchenAid Refrigerator?
A water filter can cause your KitchenAid refrigerator to make noise. If the filter is not the type recommended by the manufacturer for the refrigerator, it may cause the refrigerator to become noisy. Dirt on the filter head can cause it to grind against the housing and make noise. Remove the filter and clean it. Put it back afterward and test it again. If the noise persists, use a different filter or a bypass plug.
Install the filter or bypass plug and listen for the noise. If it comes from using the wrong filter, it should stop. You may also want to ensure the seal on the filter and filter housing is not missing or damaged. That may require replacing the filter housing or the water filter. Another solution to try is dispensing water for a few minutes or filling about 15 glasses. That may free the trapped air in the system.
You must flush the system to remove possible trapped air whenever you replace the filter. Otherwise, it builds pressure, causes the dispenser to drip water, and generates noise. This pressure can damage the dispenser and water system in the refrigerator. Ensure you purchase a filter using the refrigerator’s model number from an authorized seller.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Makes a Popping Noise – How to Fix
When your refrigerator makes a popping noise, it may be due to expanding or contracting inside it, which is normal. This sound occurs when the refrigerator runs a defrost or cooling cycle, which may be strange if the refrigerator is a new installation. The first cooling and defrost cycles make the loudest noises but are part of regular operations. The noise should reduce over time.
Also, you may hear loud popping or banging noises when the ice maker dumps ice into the storage bin. New installations or ice makers make loud noises when they dump ice because the storage bin is usually empty. So, the cubes hit the bottom of the plastic and bang. As loud as it may sound, it is normal and may get less noisy over time. Other operations that may cause this noise are the refrigerant circulating, and the defrost heater working.
However, a popping noise from your refrigerator is not always normal. If the water dispenser and ice maker have water supply issues, it may be due to a problem with the water inlet valve. You may have to replace the valve if it is popping because it may stop working when you need to turn the water on or off. It may even cause the refrigerator to overflow.
In addition, check the condenser coils. When hot refrigerant flows through the coils, they may make a loud popping noise. This noise is a regular refrigerator operation, but you may want to verify it comes from there. Ensure they are clean to encourage efficient heat dissipation from the refrigerator. Ensuring the refrigerator is level is crucial because improper leveling can cause items to knock together. While it may be normal, it helps to level the floor under it and create a better balance.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Making a Ticking Noise – Fixed
A ticking noise will most likely come from a faulty defrost timer in a KitchenAid refrigerator. Locate the timer in your specific model and listen in that area for the ticking sound. If it comes from the timer, consider replacing it. Your refrigerator may keep cooling, but the timer controls the defrost function and may trigger the system to become stuck. Over time, the refrigerator may stop cooling.
Another possible source of a ticking noise is a defective start relay. You may hear it as the compressor clicking or ticking. Check the relay if the refrigerator stops cooling as it should and if the ticking continues. Remove and shake it; replace the relay if it makes a rattling sound. But if not, use a multimeter to check its continuity. If the relay has no continuity, replace it.
The condenser coils may also tick if they are significantly dirty. Dirt leads to overheating since the coils cannot transfer heat out of the refrigerator. And if there is a problem with overheating, the compressor shuts down and tries to run, making the noise. Therefore, ensure the condensing area is clean; clean it yourself or have a professional do the job once a year.
My KitchenAid Refrigerator Not Cooling and Making a Beeping Noise – Solved
The door ajar alarm or Over Temp alarm may alert you to the refrigerator’s internal temperature rise. Power outages can trigger the temperature alarm, and leaving the refrigerator door open for up to five minutes triggers the door alarm. Ensure the doors are fully shut and check the display for a power outage indication. If the display shows PO or the power outage icon is lit, you must confirm the outage before the cooling function turns on again. Read this article on a KitchenAid refrigerator beeping to learn more about how to fix the problem.
Note: The same applies if your KitchenAid Superba refrigerator or any other model is beeping.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Door Popping Noise
Popping noise from a KitchenAid refrigerator may indicate that the door closing cam is damaged. The door cam ensures the refrigerator has the right swing and improves its balance. So, if it is damaged, the best repair is to replace it. Follow the instructions in this article to replace the door cam on any model of KitchenAid refrigerator you own.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Damper Control Noise
The damper control is a small door that opens and closes to allow cold from the freezer into the refrigerator. It should be noiseless as it operates, but if it makes a noise, such as a rattling sound, it may indicate the damper is broken. The noise may come from the damper motor trying to activate the flap. The best repair is to replace the assembly, and a professional technician is in the best position for the job.
This video shows you how to replace the damper if you want to do the repair yourself…
KitchenAid Refrigerator Main Control Making a Beeping Noise – Quick Fix
The control board should not beep, although an alarm’s audible part is on the board. In other words, the alarm originates from the control board. So, it may indicate a malfunction if it starts beeping. Try resetting the control board; disconnect the refrigerator from electric power for ten minutes. This gives the control board to reset itself and fix the problem. Typically, a reset fixes the problem.
However, you may need a new control board if the noise persists after the reset. Ensure you buy a new one using the refrigerator’s model number. Hire an appliance technician to get the part and replace it if you are unsure of the steps. But you must be sure the control board needs a replacement because these boards are easy to misdiagnose.
KitchenAid Refrigerator Freezer Makes a Humming Noise, Cycles Too Often, Loud All the Time
Check the start relay, evaporator fan, coils, and compressor if the refrigerator hums too loud and cycles too often. It may indicate that it has a cooling problem. And when the refrigerator does not cool as it should, the compressor may cycle too often as it tries to maintain a cool temperature.
Unplug the refrigerator and detach the relay. You can run a continuity test on it using a multimeter, but an easier test is to shake it and listen for a rattle, although this test does not work on all start relay types. But if it rattles or does not show continuity, replace the relay. The evaporator fan may be defective, and because it circulates the cold air in the refrigerator, it can cause a cooling problem.
Open the freezer door and listen for the fan. It should stop running once you open the door, but pressing the door switch should get it up and running again. If the fan fails to run, open the evaporator compartment and run a continuity test on the motor using a multimeter. Replace the motor if there is no continuity.
Inspect the evaporator coils while checking the fan. The coils house the refrigerant when it absorbs the heat from the air and produces cold air. So, if the coils are frozen, they cannot produce cold air, causing the refrigerator to have cooling issues. Use a hairdryer to thaw the coils or manually defrost the unit by turning it off and leaving the door open for a few hours. Check the defrost system if your refrigerator has an automatic defrost function because it may have malfunctioned, causing an ice buildup on the coils.
Finally, check the compressor. This may be a complex test, so it is best to get professional assistance to determine whether or not the compressor has failed. A damaged compressor can make clicking sounds and cause the refrigerator to cycle on and off since it powers the entire system. If the refrigerator is old, consider investing in a new one instead of replacing the compressor.
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