A refrigerator typically makes noise during regular operation. But a refrigerator noise should not be excessive as to interrupt a conversation. In this article, we discuss normal and abnormal refrigerator noises.
Table of Contents
Refrigerator Noise Stops When Door Is Open – Quick Fix
Check the evaporator fan behind the back panel inside the freezer if you hear a noise that stops once you open the refrigerator door. Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power and unmount the screws holding the panel in place. Carefully remove the panel because the fan is attached to it on the inside.
Once you remove the panel, you can see if the fan is covered with ice. Thaw it using a heat source or manually defrost the refrigerator if it is. When it is free of ice, check to see if the blades are bent. Heavy accumulation of ice tends to damage them. Replace the fan blades if they are.
Next, ensure the fan is still working. Check the motor windings for continuity using a multimeter. If you find no continuity, replace the fan motor.
However, check the rubber grommet if the fan is not covered in ice. It is a small piece that separates the motor and the mounting bracket in order to reduce vibrating noise. Over time, it may come loose or wear out. If it is loose, you can fix it back into place. But if it is worn, replace the grommet.
Typically, the evaporator fan stops running when you open the freezer door. When you close the door, the fan resumes operation. That way, it does not blow cold air out of the freezer to reduce the cooling capacity. But if ice builds around it or the grommet wears out, the fan will become noisy. These issues can damage the fan beyond repair.
Note: You have a defrost system problem if the fan has an accumulation of ice on it. It is crucial to troubleshoot the defrost system to find the faulty component and replace it.
Refrigerator Noise Troubleshooting – Steps
There are a few common causes of refrigerator noise. Here is how to troubleshoot and fix them:
1. Check the Drain Pan
One common cause of a noisy refrigerator is a loose drain pan. Take a look at the bottom of the refrigerator, close to the compressor; you will find the pan. Nudge it a little to see if it moves. Typically, it sits tight and should not rattle when the refrigerator runs. But if you hear it rattling as the refrigerator runs, it is loose and needs fixing. Secure the pan in its place, and the noise will stop.
2. Check the Condenser Fan
When debris is trapped in the fan blades, you will hear a loud noise as the fan attempts to run with the obstruction. Also, when the rubber grommet is loose, the motor and mounting bracket rub against each other and create a loud noise.
Therefore, clean the blades and thoroughly inspect the fan. The blades should be straight, and the grommet should be in place. Nothing should be entangled in the fan to restrict its movement. If everything checks out, test the motor for continuity. A failing condenser fan motor may generate noise. If the multimeter shows no continuity, replace the fan’s motor.
3. Check the Evaporator Fan
This fan is another possible cause of a loud refrigerator noise. When ice builds on it or debris attaches to it, the fan makes a loud noise. The same is true when the grommet wears out. So, if you notice that the strange noise from your refrigerator stops when the door opens, the evaporator fan is the source.
4. Check the Compressor
Before deciding that the compressor is noisy, ensure the condenser fan is clean and functional and the drain pan is secure. Then, determine why the compressor is making noise. A heat or power overload usually causes the compressor to shut down and have difficulty starting. The effort to start is what creates that noise.
Also, when the start relay is faulty and does not supply the necessary power to the compressor, the motor shuts down. It will keep trying to start and failing, generating a clicking noise as it does.
Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power for a minute or two. Then, reconnect it to electric power and see if the compressor runs and the noise disappears. If the noise remains, you may need the services of a qualified technician to determine why the compressor is noisy.
5. Check the Defrost Timer
If the noise sounds like a ticking clock, it is most likely the defrost timer. When the timer begins to malfunction, the motor tends to tick. One tell-tale sign of a bad defrost timer is frost buildup inside the freezer and on the evaporator coils.
You may want to test the timer’s functionality by turning it to advance it into a cycle. Wait for it to advance out of the cycle automatically; if it does not, test it for continuity using a multimeter. Replace the timer if there is no continuity.
6. Check the Ice Maker
One of the noisiest components in a refrigerator is the ice maker. Dumping ice into the ice bucket will generate a loud crashing sound. And when it is calling for more water for the next cycle, it creates a clicking or snapping sound.
You may also hear a hissing noise when water is pouring through the water supply line into the ice mold. A ticking or humming noise from an ice maker means it is not connected to water but is connected to power.
All these noises from the ice maker are normal. They are no reason to hire a service technician. You may need some time to get used to them if you have never used an ice maker before now. However, get professional assistance if the noises become too regular and louder than usual.
Sometimes, It Is Not from Your Refrigerator…
Other sources can cause noises that mimic refrigerator noises. For example, your cooling system may generate a noise that may seem to be coming from the refrigerator. The same applies to a heating system. So, check other possible causes while checking the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Noise After Power Outage – Solved
Check the compressor if you hear a noise coming from your refrigerator after a power outage. Most likely, the start relay is trying to provide a power boost for the compressor to start and run. But if the pressure has not equalized, the relay will shut down, and the compressor will click off. After some minutes, the process repeats.
Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power if you connected it immediately after power restoration. Leave the unit disconnected for a few minutes before reconnecting it. The time will allow the compressor to cool and the pressure to equalize. The motor will likely start and run smoothly after that.
But if the noise continues, the start relay may be damaged. Getting a new relay is usually inexpensive, so replace the old one and see if there is a change. You may require the services of a qualified technician to test the compressor if the start relay is not the problem.
Refrigerator Making Noise and Not Cooling – Solution
Check the start relay if your refrigerator is making noise and not cooling. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet and move it to gain access to the bottom back. Remove the rear access panel and unmount the relay from the compressor.
Shake it slightly and listen for a rattling noise. If the relay rattles, it no longer provides a power boost for the compressor to run. As a result, the compressor regularly clicks on and off as it tries to start without help from the relay. Replace the start relay to get the compressor up and running and your refrigerator cold.
However, if the relay does not rattle, the problem may stem from the compressor itself. Different issues can cause a compressor to fail or lock up, such as a voltage surge or an overload of heat. Also, constantly using the wrong temperature setting can wear the compressor out. Contact the refrigerator’s manufacturing brand to report the issue and request service.
Refrigerator Making Noise and Leaking Water – What to Do
The noise you hear may be water dripping on the defrost heater during a defrost cycle. You can confirm if the noise sounds like hissing or sizzles. If that is the noise you hear, it is pretty normal. But if the refrigerator is leaking, something is obstructing the defrost drain. The condensate water has no other channel to drain, so it leaks out of the refrigerator.
You will find the drain hole at the center bottom of the freezer, under the evaporator coils. Check to see if there is ice over it. Pour warm water over the hole if you find ice covering it. Then, check for debris inside the hole. Low freezer temperature may cause the drain hole to freeze over, but debris slows the outflow of water, leading to water pooling inside the freezer and freezing.
Therefore, use a thin stiff wire to push debris out of the drain if you find any. Flush it with warm water or mix water and vinegar, and flush it. Empty the drain pan, wash, and sanitize it. Afterward, observe the refrigerator for more leaks.
The noise may also come from water dripping into the drain pan. While the drain may not be clogged, the pan may be full and overflowing. As more water pours into it, it makes a distinct noise. Check the drain pan and empty it if it is overflowing. You can also check to see if it is cracked and leaking, in which case you need to replace it. Otherwise, wash and sanitize it before putting it back under the refrigerator.
Check out these other articles…
Refrigerator Handle [How to/Problems & Solutions]
Cooler Is Not Cooling [How to Fix]
Refrigerator Not Working [Problems Solved]
Freezer Not Working [Problems Solved]
Ice Maker Not Working [Proven Solutions]
Refrigerator Making a Beeping Noise – How to Fix
Here are several reasons your refrigerator is beeping and how to fix them:
1. Overfilling
Storing too many items in the freezer or refrigerator keeps the door from fully closing. When the door remains open for an extended period, it triggers the door alarm. It is crucial to check whether or not the door is even slightly open. Check the shelves and racks to ensure none is sticking out and keep the door from closing.
If you can, reduce the contents in the refrigerator. It is ideal to leave both compartments only ¾ full for better airflow, but doing that also helps the door close and remain closed. Rearrange what is left in the unit so that nothing is sticking out or blocking the vents.
It also helps to reduce what you store in the door bins if you have too much there. Heavy containers should sit on the shelves inside the refrigerator. Keep the door as light as possible to prevent sagging and compromise temperature.
2. Improper Leveling
Ensure the refrigerator is leveled. It should tilt a little to the back, with the front a little raised for correct leveling. If it is not properly balanced, it may affect how well the door closes. That may trigger the door alarm.
If you are unsure, use a bubble or laser level to determine how balanced the unit is. If the bubble rests in the center, the refrigerator is level. Otherwise, follow the leveling instructions in the user manual to fix the issue.
3. Weak Door Gasket
The door gasket may not be working, causing the refrigerator to sense that the door is open. The problem may also stem from the gasket being dirty or loose. Run your hand down the length of the gasket and see if you feel cold air escaping from the door. If you do, replace the gasket.
But if not, use the dollar or paper trick to test further. Close the door on a thin piece of paper or a dollar bill, and try pulling it out. Replace the gasket if you can pull it out.
However, if the gasket does not appear weak, check to see if it is dirty. Clean it with warm water and soap. Dirt keeps the gasket from adhering tightly to the cabinet. As a result, it leaves the door slightly ajar. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to push the gasket back in place if it is loose.
4. Frost Buildup
The alarm starts beeping when the freezer has too much ice in it. It is a way of alerting you to a defrost problem. Not all refrigerators have this feature, so it may help to check the ice level in the freezer from time to time.
If your refrigerator has a self-defrost feature, it should dissolve ice and prevent a buildup. But if it does not, manually defrost the freezer by unplugging it and leaving the doors open overnight. Once the ice melts, the beeping noise should stop. Afterward, clean up excess water and troubleshoot the defrost system.
5. Poor Air Circulation
For a refrigerator to function optimally, it needs air to circulate it. That is because the condenser coils and compressor generate a lot of heat. The heat must be dissipated into the atmosphere, which cannot happen if there is no proper air circulation around the refrigerator.
Therefore, ensure you do not push the refrigerator too close to surrounding surfaces. Leave about two inches between them, both at the sides and back. That way, the heat does not remain trapped in the unit, causing a rise in the internal temperature and triggering an alarm.
When all else fails, employ the services of a service technician to find out if the problem is from the main control board.
Refrigerator Making a Buzzing Noise and Not Cooling – Quick Fix
Typically, a compressor makes a buzzing or humming noise when running. The noise is low and negligible. You should worry if the noise is excessively loud and the refrigerator stops cooling. Check the condenser coils; dirty coils negatively affect the compressor and the refrigerator’s cooling capacity.
Clean them if they are dirty to improve the airflow. Also, clean the compressor and condenser fan. If the coils remain dirty, the compressor will overwork itself trying to lower the rising internal temperature of the refrigerator. The extra work may cause it to buzz.
You can also check the ice maker if the noise comes during ice-making cycles. There may be a loose connection, or it is running without water. Hire a professional to test the ice maker if you are not sure.
Note: The above fixes also apply when the refrigerator makes a vibrating noise.
Refrigerator Noise During Defrost Cycles – What to Do
There is usually nothing to do about noises during defrost cycles. Your refrigerator may make a gurgling noise, hissing noise, or dripping noise, but they are all normal. The water tends to drip on the red-hot heater during a defrost cycle, creating the audible hissing noise. The gurgling noise may come when the condensate water runs down the drain into the drip pan. The same applies when you hear the dripping noise.
Refrigerator Noise from Compressor – Solution
Before you decide that a refrigerator compressor is noisy, ensure the noise is coming from it. Sometimes, the condenser fan generates noise, and its proximity to the compressor and condenser coils makes it seem as if the compressor is the source. Also, a loose drain pan makes a noise that you may assume is coming from the compressor.
But the compressor can create loud noises, especially when it is failing. First, ensure the condenser fan is working, and the coils are not dirty. An overload of heat causes the compressor to become noisy. If these are in place and the compressor is still loud, level the refrigerator.
Disconnect it from electric power and adjust the leveling screws on the feet. Turn them clockwise or counterclockwise to tilt the refrigerator to the back or the front as needed. Note that a refrigerator needs to tilt slightly to the back to be level.
If that does not fix the problem, check the screws holding the compressor in place. They may be loose, causing the compressor to make a noise when the refrigerator is running. You will know this if you hear a vibrating sound when the refrigerator cycles on and off during regular operation.
However, hire a qualified technician to check the compressor and determine its functionality if none of the above fixes the compressor noise.
Refrigerator Making a Gurgling Noise – What It Means
It is pretty normal to hear a gurgling noise from your refrigerator, especially if it is not loud. After the refrigerator goes through a cooling cycle, you may hear the noise of the refrigerant flowing through the tubes. You may feel some vibration during the process if you place a hand on the refrigerator’s side or door.
You may also hear the gurgling noise when you open or close the refrigerator door. As it resumes cooling, the refrigerant will flow and make noise. It is normal.
Refrigerator Making a Grinding Noise – Solved
A grinding noise is typical when the evaporator fan is covered with ice. Ice buildup on or around the fan generates a grinding when the blades try to spin but scrape against the ice. So, empty the freezer and remove the fan cover at the back wall.
Use a hairdryer to thaw the fan if it is frozen. And when it is free of ice, check if the blades are intact. The weight of the ice may damage them beyond repair. Do not try to straighten the blades if they are bent; replace them.
Another possible cause of the grinding noise is the ice maker. When it is running an ice-making cycle and dumping ice, you may hear a periodic grinding and clattering as the gears work and the ice hits the ice bucket. This sound is typical unless it becomes louder and more frequent than it used to be. Then, you can get professional help to determine why the ice maker is suddenly noisier than usual.
Refrigerator Making a Groaning Noise – What to Do
There is nothing to do if your refrigerator makes a groaning noise. It may be the compressor shutting off after a cooling cycle. The noise may also be from the freezer; it is nothing for which to call a service agent. It is all part of the unit’s regular operation.
Refrigerator Making a High-pitched Noise – Quick Fix
Check the evaporator fan if the high-pitched noise comes from the freezer area. When the bearings are worn or there is no lubrication left, the motor will make a noise that sounds like a squeal or whistle. The best repair is to replace the fan motor or the entire fan assembly.
When the evaporator fan circulates cold air from the coils in the freezer, the air passes through vents and other openings into the refrigerator. This process may generate a high-pitched noise like a whistle. While it is not regular in all refrigerator models, it is still normal and not a cause for concern.
Another source of a high-pitched noise is the compressor. More recent refrigerator models come with compressors with high efficiency. These compressors run faster than their older counterparts, but the speed may generate noise.
The noise cannot change, and you have to deal with it as long as you use the refrigerator. It is part of lower energy consumption and better operation. However, there are safe ways to soundproof a noisy compressor if it is too much of a bother.
The condenser fan can squeal loudly in much the same way an evaporator fan does. The noise means the fan motor’s bearings are worn, and the motor needs a replacement since you cannot fix the bearings. So, check the condenser fan if the high-pitched noise is coming from the fan area.
Refrigerator Making a Humming Noise – Quick Fix
A humming noise from a refrigerator is typical. It is the sound a compressor makes when it usually runs. Some call it a buzz, but it is typically low and quiet. The compressor is faulty if the humming noise becomes too loud and frequent. It is best to get professional help to determine whether or not the compressor is failing.
Refrigerator Making a Hissing Noise – Quick Fix
The primary source of hissing noise from your refrigerator is the defrost system. During the defrost cycle, the water that forms from the melted frost on the evaporator coils drips on the hot defrost heater, generating noise. But this process can only happen if the refrigerator has an automatic defrost function. If your unit does not have one and you hear a hissing noise, check other possible causes.
A refrigerant leak may cause a hissing noise. Puncturing the condenser or evaporator coils will cause the gas to leak. As it leaks, it may hiss. So, if you hear this noise, be sure your sealed system is not compromised.
One other possible source of the hissing noise is during thermostatic expansion. There is a valve in the freezer that controls the refrigerant flow. The valve ensures the evaporator coils are not overburdened with too much refrigerant at the same time. The load on the coils will determine how well the compressor runs.
But as the refrigerant passes through the valve to the coils, the valve expands, creating noise. It is part of the regular freezer cycle and should not be a cause for worry.
Contact the manufacturer or hire an independent technician if none of the above apply.
Refrigerator Making a Howling Noise – Quick Fix
Check the evaporator fan inside the freezer. When the motor of the fan becomes obstructed with debris, air passing through it will sound like it is howling. The same applies if the sound comes from the condenser fan area. If the noise becomes louder when you open the door of the freezer, you know the fan is the source. Otherwise, check the condenser fan.
Disconnect the refrigerator from electric power and empty the freezer to clean the evaporator fan. Unmount the fan from the inside back panel and clean the blades, shaft, and motor. Then, put it back into position, reconnect the refrigerator to electric power, and wait for the noise. If it continues, clean the condenser fan.
Pull the refrigerator away from the wall and unmount the screws holding the bottom access panel in place. Locate the fan and thoroughly clean it. Ensure no debris is left on it or around the area before replacing the cover.
On rare occasions, the defrost system may be the source of the howling noise you hear. A malfunctioning defrost system may generate a loud howl, which a ping may follow. Reset the system by turning the thermostat to 0 or off. Wait about fifteen minutes and turn it back to the previous setting. If the noise continues, consider replacing the defrost thermostat.
If you are unsure, let a qualified technician determine the source of the noise and recommend a permanent fix.
Refrigerator Ice Maker Making Noise – Quick Fix
A refrigerator ice maker can generate different noises such as:
1. Hissing
Water passing through the water supply line into the ice mold may mimic a hissing sound. If the water supply valve is fully open, which is expected, the water will come with a bit of force. That is the noise you hear coming from the ice maker.
2. Clicking or Snapping
When the ice maker needs more water after dumping ice into the ice bucket, it makes a noise like a click or a snap. It is its way of asking for more water from the source. But it may sound like a serious problem if you are not used to it. It is usually not a cause for worry.
3. Crashing
The ice maker generates a lot of noise when it dumps ice into the ice bucket. It may sound like something has crashed inside the refrigerator, or someone is pouring rocks into an empty container. If the ice bucket is empty, the noise will be too loud compared to when there is some ice in it.
4. Ticking
When the ice maker is on but has no water in it, it may make a ticking noise. It is the sound of the ice machine looking for water to run a cycle but finding none. It is crucial to permanently connect the water supply line to the ice maker and open the supply valve. Otherwise, you risk damaging the ice maker beyond repair.
Refrigerator Makes a Jackhammer Noise – How to Fix
Several refrigerator parts cause a jackhammer noise. Check the water filter housing, evaporator fan, water supply line, or shut-off valve.
If the filter housing is generating noise, it needs a replacement. One or more components have failed, leading to loud noise. And if the fan is the source, you need to check whether there is ice on it. Thaw the fan if there is, and determine whether or not it is still working using a multimeter. Replace the fan if it has no continuity.
The shut-off valve generates the sound when partially open, and water cannot freely pass through. Open the valve fully to eliminate the noise if it is coming from it. But if the noise comes from the supply line, it may be loose. It tends to hit the refrigerator and the wall as water flows through it when it is loose, causing the jackhammer noise.
Try securing the plastic supply line at the loose connections. You can also use an air jack to the line to minimize the pressure as water flows. Finally, ensure the water inlet valve fully shuts off as it can cause the pipe to keep making noise.
Refrigerator Making a Knocking Noise – Quick Fix
The condenser fan is the most probable cause of a knocking noise in a refrigerator. When debris clogs it, it reduces the flow of air and generates a knocking, whistling, or clicking noise. Thoroughly clean the fan to eliminate the noise.
Another possible cause is the condenser coils. If they are significantly dirty, they are likely to become noisy and affect the refrigerator’s cooling capacity. Locate the coils using your user manual; they are typically at the bottom back, near the compressor. Clean them to eliminate the noise.
Check if there is enough space around the refrigerator. Keeping the unit too close to surrounding surfaces will cause contact. As the refrigerator runs, it vibrates and may hit the surfaces, creating the sound. Move the unit a few inches away from the walls to prevent the noise and prolong the refrigerator’s life.
If you do not eliminate the noise with any of the above, check the compressor. It may generate a knocking noise when it starts or shuts down, especially if the refrigerator is older. Get professional help to determine whether the compressor needs a replacement or a simple cleaning in such a case.
Refrigerator Makes Noise When Dispensing Water – What to Do
Check the water filter, the water filter housing, or the water inlet valve if you hear a noise when dispensing water. Remove the water filter from the housing and put a bypass plug in its place. If the noise disappears, clean the filter’s head and ensure there is no damage. Reinstall it and wait for the noise. If it persists, replace the water filter. But if replacing the filter with a new one does not eliminate the noise, check the water inlet valve.
Get a helper to press the lever of the water dispenser while you inspect the valve. If you hear the noise from the valve while water is dispensing, replace the inlet valve. You cannot repair it otherwise. But if not, the water filter housing may be the culprit.
Press the dispenser’s lever as you listen to the housing. If the noise comes from the housing, replace it. The filter housing is the compartment into which the water filter fits.
Refrigerator Making a Popping Noise – Quick Fix
A refrigerator cools items to preserve them. But the unit is not always cold. Sometimes, it goes through a cycle to defrost accumulated frost. Afterward, it returns to the cooling cycle. However, the temperature changes affect the plastic parts inside the refrigerator. As a result, they expand and contract. The contraction and expansion may create a loud popping noise. If you are not used to it, it will sound unusual. But with time, you will get used to it.
Another possible cause of a popping noise is the water inlet valve. It is at the bottom back of the refrigerator and fills the ice maker and water dispenser with water. But it tends to pop when it opens to supply water, which is normal, and it happens only intermittently. You should check the inlet valve to see if the popping noise is continuous or louder than usual.
In addition, consider the evaporator coils as they get cold again after a defrost cycle. If you hear a pop just after the refrigerator goes through a defrost, the coils may be the source. Again, it is nothing to worry about as it is part of the refrigerator’s normal operations. But if the popping noise does not stop, it may be that the refrigerator is stuck in a cooling cycle, and the evaporator coils may freeze over time.
Note: A refrigerator door cam can break and make a loud pop when you open or shut the door. Check and replace the door cam if the noise seems to come from the door area.
Refrigerator Makes Noise When Compressor Shuts Off – Quick Fix
Check the compressor’s balance if the refrigerator makes noise when it shuts off. The compressor sits in its compartment on three springs. These springs hold the compressor in place and ensure its movement does not create noise. However, with constant use, the springs wear out and loosen. As a result, the compressor moves whenever it shuts off or comes on, creating a vibrating or thumping noise.
Typically, you don’t need to replace the compressor if you notice this problem. All you need to do is replace the springs. You can get professional help for the job if you are unsure of doing it yourself. But if the noise comes too frequently or when the compressor runs, something is wrong. Hire an appliance technician to diagnose the problem and recommend a permanent fix.
Refrigerator Makes a Rattling Noise – How to Fix
Before checking refrigerator parts, ensure no plate or other items inside or on top of the refrigerator is generating the noise. Sometimes, the noise comes from knick-knacks around the unit, and the fix is usually simple.
But check the following if you are sure the rattling noise comes from the refrigerator itself:
1. Drain Pan
The pan that collects water from the defrost cycle under the refrigerator is the likeliest to cause the rattling. If the noise comes from the bottom back of the unit, the pan should be your first stop. Take a look and the pan and secure it if it is loose. When it is loose, it tends to shake as the refrigerator runs. Also, ensure there is no damage to the pan’s supports.
2. Condenser Fan
Unplug the refrigerator from electric power and move the unit. Unmount the screws holding the bottom access panel in place and remove the panel. Then, find the fan beside the condenser coils and check the blades.
Clean the fan blades, ensure they are not loose, and there is no damage. If they are loose, fix and tighten them in place. Replace the blades if they are damaged. Also, clean the motor to remove debris so that it can run without restriction. The grommet should be intact; replace it if worn because it may cause the blades to rattle against the motor.
While cleaning the fan, clean the condenser coils with a vacuum cleaner or a small brush. Use a condenser coil cleaning brush if you can get one; it does the best job of cleaning the coils. Then, make a note to clean them again in the next six months. Debris from the coils may transfer to the fan and cause the blades to create noise as they try to spin.
3. Compressor
A rattling compressor may only need new holding springs. When the springs that soak up the sound of the compressor’s movements become loose, they cause a rattling as the refrigerator runs.
But if the springs are the noise source, the compressor may be failing. However, ensure you eliminate other parts more likely to cause the noise before checking the compressor. The compressor hardly fails; it is designed to work as long as the refrigerator is in use. You may have to test the compressor to determine if it is faulty. Replace the compressor or invest in a new refrigerator if necessary.
Note: Sometimes, a faulty defrost timer rattles. The motor may tick or rattle when it becomes weak, so you may want to test the timer with a multimeter. Replace it if you find no continuity.
Refrigerator Making a Squealing Noise – Quick Fix
Check the evaporator fan if you hear a squealing or squeaking noise from the refrigerator. The same applies if the noise sounds like chirping or screeching. This is especially needed if the noise comes from the freezer area or stops when you open the freezer door.
Empty the freezer of contents and unmount the back panel inside it. Check the fan’s blades, grommet, connectors, and motor. If any shows signs of damage, replace them.
Refrigerator Making a Clicking Noise – Quick Fix
The compressor is the first component to check if you hear your refrigerator clicking. The noise you hear is the compressor trying unsuccessfully to start. When the start relay becomes faulty, it prevents the compressor from starting and running smoothly.
Therefore, disconnect the refrigerator from electric power and move it. Remove the access panel at the bottom back to access the compressor. The relay is mounted to the side. Detach and shake it. If the relay rattles, which it should not do, replace it. Also, replace it if it smells burnt.
You can go a step further to check for continuity between the start and run terminals if you are unsure. If you find no continuity, replace the start relay.
Apart from the compressor, the ice maker can also make a clicking noise when the water supply line is not connected to a water source. The ice maker generates the noise as it unsuccessfully tries to get water. Ensure the water shut-off valve is fully open, along with the water inlet valve. Then, check that the water line connects to the inlet valve.
Refrigerator Making Noise After Replacing Water Filter – Quick Fix
Dispense a few gallons of water to relieve pressure and remove air from the system. After replacing the water filter, it is crucial to flush the system in the event of trapped air. The air may cause noise, and flushing it will resolve the issue.
Remove the filter and inspect it if the noise does not stop after flushing the system. Ensure nothing is obstructing the meeting point of the filter and the filter housing. Also, ensure the O-rings are secure, and the filter head has no damages. If all is in place yet the noise continues, you may have the wrong filter type. Consider replacing it.
The water inlet valve may be the noise source. Consider checking the valve if the water filter does not seem to be the problem. Replace it if the noise comes from the area.
Recap
Refrigerator noise problems are usually straightforward to fix. You can follow the troubleshooting steps in this article to fix a noisy refrigerator. Plus, we have detailed possible fixes for each problem.
But if your refrigerator keeps making noise even after repairing possible faulty parts, report the issue to the manufacturer for immediate assistance. The same applies if the refrigerator is under an active warranty.
Contact an independent technician for further assistance if the manufacturer is out of business. We have some here to offer help without waiting for an appointment.
Remember to disconnect the refrigerator from electric power before troubleshooting or repairing any parts. That is unless you need electricity to find the fault. In such a case, you need professional help since it involves active voltage.
Get Instant Help — Ask An Experienced Verified Appliance Technician
Need expert help? Click here to use the chat box on this page to speak with a verified appliance technician right away. No need for expensive in-home service calls. No appointments. No waiting.