Refrigerator Making Noise – 6 The Cause and How to Fix It
Do you ever get that Refrigerator Making Noise? You know, the one where it sounds like something is loose inside and just clicking around? It can be frustrating when you’re trying to sleep or relax; all you can hear is this annoying noise.
If you’re like most people, your refrigerator probably makes some noise. In fact, most refrigerators make a range of noises that can be classified into one of four main categories: loud buzzing, vibrating, humming, clicking, whining, or knocking. While most people don’t think twice about the sound their refrigerator makes, it’s important to know what each type of noise means and how to troubleshoot it if necessary. Your refrigerator is making an abnormal noise, there are a few things you can do to try and identify the cause. Your refrigerator making noises can be caused by some of the following common causes:
- Damaged condenser fan motor
- Faulty evaporator fan motor
- Dirty or damaged compressor
- Ice maker
- Pan drain problems
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the possible causes of refrigerators making noise and offer some tips for fixing the problem. If the problem persists after trying these methods, be sure to contact a professional for assistance. We hope that this information will help you get your fridge back to working order quickly and easily. Thanks for reading!
Why Is My Refrigerator Making Noise?
Your refrigerator usually makes noises for several reasons, most of which are related to the fridge’s compressor or condenser. The following are some of the most common reasons your fridge might be making noise:
1. Damaged condenser fan motor – The condenser fan motor is responsible for circulating air over the fridge’s coils. If this motor becomes damaged, it can cause a loud buzzing noise.
2. Faulty evaporator fan motor – The evaporator fan motor is responsible for circulating air over the fridge’s evaporator coils. If this motor becomes damaged, it can cause a clicking noise.
3. Dirty or damaged compressor – The compressor is responsible for pumping refrigerant through the fridge’s cooling system. If this component becomes dirty or damaged, it can cause a humming noise.
4. Ice maker – The ice maker is responsible for making ice cubes. If this component becomes damaged, it can cause a knocking noise.
5. Pan drain problems – If the pan that collects water from the fridge’s defrost cycle becomes clogged, it can cause a whining noise.
Blocked Air Vents
Humming from your refrigerator can be caused by items blocking or being too close to the air vents inside the fridge or freezer. If items are blocking the air vents, they can prevent the air from flowing properly, which can cause a humming sound.
If the humming noise is caused by items too close to the air vents, you can probably open the fridge or freezer and identify the issue. Rearranging your refrigerator and moving items away from the air vents to ensure air can circulate will resolve the issue.
If you can’t identify the noise source, something may be blocking the air vents on the back of the fridge. In this case, you’ll need to move the refrigerator and inspect the air vents to ensure they’re not blocked.
How to fix a refrigerator Blocked Air Vents:
1. Check the air vents on the back of the fridge and make sure they’re not blocked.
2. If the air vents are blocked, clear the area around them so air can circulate properly.
3. If you can’t identify the source of the noise, it’s possible that something is blocking the air vents inside the fridge or freezer. In this case, you’ll need to open the fridge or freezer and rearrange items to ensure air can circulate properly.
Dirty or Failing Compressor
The compressor of the refrigerator works by pushing refrigerant through the coils of the condenser and evaporator. It makes that “humming” noise you normally hear when the compressor is activated and starting its duty cycle, i.e. when it pumps refrigerant through the system, turns off, and then on…
When the compressor makes a humming sound, especially intermittent humming noise, it means the compressor is overloaded or damaged and needs to be replaced soon. It could also be because it is dirty and needs to be cleaned.
If the refrigerator compressor fails, it will cause the refrigerator to make a louder-than-normal knocking noise that isn’t the humming you’re used to hearing when it’s working properly. It will make the loudest noise when it starts to pump the reagent, repeating like a cycle of on and off.
How to fix a refrigerator’s dirty or failing compressor:
1. Turn off the fridge and unplug it from the power outlet.
2. Remove the access panel to the back of the fridge.
3. Locate the compressor (it will be a large, cylindrical object).
4. Clean the coils with a brush or vacuum attachment.
5. Check to see if the noise has stopped. If not, the compressor may need to be replaced.
Cleaning the compressor can be done using a compressor cleaning kit available at most hardware stores.
Damaged Condenser
The condenser fan is a part located next to the compressor, it has the function of circulating outside air to cool the condenser and compressor coils, or it is responsible for cooling the compressor and the coils of the compressor unit.
There are 3 cases, the first case is like the compressor when the condenser fan has accumulated dust, and it emits an abnormal humming noise. We can remove and clean it with a soft cloth or with a brush with water and soap and then wipe the charger to solve that humming noise.
In the second case, the condenser fan is damaged, the impeller can often be replaced, and the price is relatively low. The third case is that the condenser fan motor is damaged (the impeller is still working fine). Over time, the bearings inside the long fan will wear out, causing your refrigerator to make loud noises. Or the condenser fan motor is damaged (the impeller still works). A fan motor gradually stops working poorly. It usually makes a rattling noise before it finally fails. If the fan motor is not working, the fridge will overheat and stop cooling properly. Replacing the condenser fan motor is usually the only way to fix this issue.
How to fix a refrigerator Damaged condenser fan
The first step is to remove the power to the fridge by unplugging it from the wall outlet.
Then, you’ll need to remove the access panel to get to the fan. The location of this panel will vary depending on your fridge model, so consult your owner’s manual for guidance.
Once you have access to the fan, use a screwdriver or nut driver to loosen and remove the screws that hold it in place. With the screws removed, you should be able to pull the fan out of its housing.
At this point, you can inspect the fan blades for damage. If they’re bent or damaged in any way, they’ll need to be replaced. Replacing just the blades is usually cheaper than replacing the entire fan assembly.
Once you have the new blades installed, simply reverse the process to reassemble the fan and replace the access panel.
With the new blades in place, turn the power back on to see if the noise has been eliminated. If not, the problem may lie elsewhere.
How to fix a refrigerator Damaged condenser fan motor:
If the fan blades are in good condition, but the motor is making noise, it will need to be replaced. Again, consult your owner’s manual for guidance on accessing and replacing the condenser fan motor.
Once the new motor is in place, reverse the process to reassemble the fan and replace the access panel. Turn the power back on and see if the noise has been eliminated. If not, there may be another problem at play.
Faulty Evaporator
The evaporator fan of the refrigerator has the function of drawing air through the evaporator coils, and cool air will be circulated throughout the refrigerator. When its buffer is worn, obscured, or its propeller is damaged will cause noise. In addition, sometimes a faulty evaporator motor makes a loud noise because it freezes; in this case, you should defrost the ice to see if the noise can be fixed.
The evaporator is located inside the cabinet and can be accessed by removing the cover or control panel. Note that when removing the evaporator, it is connected to a thermistor.
Thermistors are used to measure the temperature inside your fridge and help regulate the cooling process. If your thermistor is not working properly, it could cause your fridge to run too cold or too hot, which could lead to excessive ice buildup or food spoilage.
If you suspect that your evaporator fan motor is the cause of the noise, you can try replacing it with a new one. If the noise persists, there is likely another issue causing it, and you should call a professional for assistance.
How to fix a refrigerator’s Faulty Evaporator:
1. First, you will need to find the evaporator coils. These are typically located in the back of the fridge near the compressor.
2. Next, use a soft brush or cloth to clean any dirt or debris off of the coils. Be sure not to bend or damage the coils during this process.
3. Once the coils are clean, check to see if the fan blade is damaged or bent. If so, you will need to replace it with a new one.
4. If the fan blade is not damaged, try replacing the entire fan motor assembly. This can usually be found near the coils and is easy to replace.
5. If the noise persists after replacing the fan motor, another issue is likely causing it, and you should call a professional for assistance.
Other possible causes
Ice maker
An ice maker can be the source of a lot of noise, especially when it is first turned on. The loudest noise usually comes from the water valve that supplies water to the ice maker. If this valve is not properly installed, it can cause a rattling noise each time it cycles on. Another common issue is a loose or worn ice maker in support. This support holds the bin in place, and if it is loose, it can cause the bin to rattle each time the ice maker cycles. The final issue that can cause noise from an ice maker is a faulty motor. If the motor is going bad, it will often make a grinding noise as it tries to turn the auger.
How to fix an Ice Maker:
1. First, check the water supply line to see if it is properly connected. If not, tighten it or replace it with a new one.
2. Next, check the ice maker bin support and make sure it is tight. If not, tighten it or replace it with a new one.
3. Finally, check the auger motor to see if it is making a grinding noise. If so, you will need to replace it with a new one.
4. If the noise persists after replacing the auger motor, there is likely another issue causing it, and you should call a professional for assistance.
Drain Pan
The drain pan is located under the fridge, and it is responsible for collecting water that drips from the evaporator coils. Over time, this water can Rust the drain pan and cause it to become brittle. When this happens, the drain pan can crack and make a loud noise each time the fridge cycles on. The best way to fix this issue is to replace the entire drain pan.
How to Fix a Drain Pan:
1. First, you will need to locate the drain pan. This is typically located under the fridge near the compressor.
2. Next, use a putty knife or screwdriver to pry the old drain pan out of place.
3. Once the old drain pan is removed, clean out any dirt or debris from the area.
4. Then, place the new drain pan in place and secure it with screws or bolts.
5. Finally, turn on the fridge and check to see if the noise is gone. If not, you may need to call a professional for assistance.
Types of Noises That Can Come from Your Refrigerator
Fridge Making Loud Buzzing Noise
A fridge that is making a loud buzzing noise is often caused by a faulty compressor. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the fridge; if it goes bad, it can make a lot of noise. Other possible causes of a fridge making a loud buzzing noise include a loose drain pan or an ice maker that is not properly installed.
Fridge Making Vibrating Noise
A loose or worn ice maker often causes a fridge that is making a vibrating noise in support. This support holds the bin in place, and if it is loose, it can cause the bin to rattle each time the ice maker cycles. Another common issue is a faulty fan motor. If the motor is going bad, it will often make a grinding noise as it tries to turn the blades. The final issue that can cause a vibrating noise from a fridge is a loose drain pan. If the drain pan is not properly secured, it can vibrate each time the fridge cycles on.
Fridge Making Humming Noise
A faulty compressor often causes a fridge that is making a humming noise. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the refrigerator; if it goes bad, it can make a lot of noise. Other possible causes of a fridge making a humming noise include a loose drain pan or an ice maker that is not properly installed.
Fridge Making Whistling Noise
Air leaks in the door seals often cause a fridge that is making a whistling noise. Over time, the door seals can become cracked or damaged, and this can cause air to escape each time the fridge is turned on. Another possible cause of a whistling noise from a fridge is a faulty fan motor. If the motor is going bad, it will often make a grinding noise as it tries to turn the blades.
Fridge Making Clicking Noise
A faulty compressor often causes a fridge that is making a clicking noise. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the refrigerator; if it goes bad, it can make a lot of noise. Other possible causes of a fridge making a clicking noise include a loose drain pan or an ice maker that is not installed correctly.
Fridge Making Pulsating or Whirring Noise
A faulty compressor often causes a fridge to make a pulsating or whirring noise. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the refrigerator; if it goes wrong, it can make a lot of noise. Other possible causes of a fridge making a pulsating or whirring noise include a loose drain pan or an ice maker that is not properly installed.
Fridge Making a Loud Banging Noise
A faulty compressor often causes a fridge that is making a loud banging noise. The compressor is responsible for circulating coolant throughout the refrigerator; if it goes bad, it can make a lot of noise. Other possible causes of a fridge making a loud banging noise include a loose drain pan or an ice maker that is not properly installed.
As you can see, there are many potential causes of noises from your refrigerator. If you cannot identify the cause of the noise, or if the noise persists after trying to fix it yourself, you may need to call a professional for assistance.
How can you determine whether it’s something serious or just a minor issue that can be fixed on your own?
There are a few different ways that you can determine whether the noise your fridge is making is something serious or not. One way is to listen to the noise simply. Is it a loud, persistent buzz? Or is it more of a light-clicking sound? If it’s the latter, it’s likely not serious and can be fixed relatively easily. However, if the noise is loud and persistent, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance.
Another way to determine whether your fridge’s noise is serious is to check for other signs of damage or malfunction. For example, if your fridge suddenly starts making noise, this could be a sign that something is wrong. Additionally, if the noise seems to be coming from the compressor or fan area, this is also a cause for concern. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance.
Finally, if you’re still unsure whether the noise your fridge is making is severe or not, you can always consult your refrigerator’s owner’s manual. In most cases, the manual will have a section that discusses common problems and how to fix them. If you can’t find this information in your manual, you can usually find it online by searching for your fridge’s make and model number.
Once you’ve determined that the noise your fridge is making is serious, there are a few different ways to fix the problem.
What should you do if the problem is more serious and needs to be addressed by a professional technician?
If you’ve determined that the noise your fridge is making is indeed something serious, there are a few different ways that you can go about fixing the problem. One option is to contact the manufacturer of your fridge and schedule a repair appointment. In most cases, the manufacturer will send a technician to your home to diagnose and fix the problem.
Another option is to contact a local appliance repair company. Many companies offer same-day or next-day service, so you won’t have to wait long for someone to come and take a look at your fridge. Additionally, many appliance repair companies offer flat-rate pricing, so you’ll know exactly how much it will cost to fix the problem before they even arrive.
Finally, if you’re handy with tools and feel confident in your ability to fix the problem yourself, you can always order the necessary parts online and follow a repair guide. However, we only recommend this option if you’re absolutely sure that you know what you’re doing. Otherwise, it’s best to leave refrigerator repairs to the professionals.
We hope this information has helped troubleshoot the noise your fridge is making. Contact a professional for assistance if you have any further questions or concerns.
How much will it cost to have the refrigerator repaired or replaced, and what are some tips for reducing those costs as much as possible?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of refrigerator repairs or replacement will vary depending on the problem and the type of fridge that you have. However, there are a few ways that you can try to reduce the cost of repairs or replacement as much as possible.
One way to do this is to contact your fridge’s manufacturer and see if they offer any type of warranty or protection plan. In many cases, manufacturers will cover the cost of repairs (or even replacement) if your fridge is under a certain age or if the problem is due to a manufacturing defect.
Another way to reduce the cost of repairs or replacement is to take advantage of any discounts or promotions that appliance repair companies might be running. For example, many companies offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or first-time customers. Additionally, you might be able to find a coupon for appliance repairs in your local newspaper or online.
Finally, if you’re handy with tools and feel confident in your ability to fix the problem yourself, you can always order the necessary parts online and follow a repair guide. However, we only recommend this option if you’re absolutely sure that you know what you’re doing. Otherwise, it’s best to leave refrigerator repairs to the professionals.
What should you do if the problem is more severe and needs to be addressed by a professional technician?
If you’ve determined that the noise your fridge is making is severe, there are a few different ways to fix the problem. One option is to contact the manufacturer of your fridge and schedule a repair appointment. In most cases, the manufacturer will send a technician to your home to diagnose and fix the problem.
Another option is to contact a local appliance repair company. Many companies offer same-day or next-day service, so you won’t have to wait long for someone to come and take a look at your fridge. Additionally, many appliance repair companies offer flat-rate pricing, so you’ll know exactly how much it will cost to fix the problem before they even arrive.
Finally, if you’re handy with tools and feel confident in your ability to fix the problem yourself, you can always order the necessary parts online and follow a repair guide. However, we only recommend this option if you’re sure that you know what you’re doing. Otherwise, it’s best to leave refrigerator repairs to the professionals.
FAQs
Why Does Your Fridge Make Noise At Night?
There are a few different things that could be going on to cause your fridge to make noise at night. You should first check for any loose items in the refrigerator that may be banging around and causing the noise. If there are no open items, the condenser fan motor is next to check. This part is responsible for circulating air throughout the fridge and keeping it cool. If the condenser fan motor is damaged, it can cause a loud buzzing noise. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the condenser fan motor. If the condenser fan motor isn’t the problem, the next thing to check is the evaporator fan motor. This part helps circulate air over the evaporator coils and helps keep the fridge cool. If the evaporator fan motor is damaged, it can cause a vibrating humming noise. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the evaporator fan motor.
The compressor is the last thing to check if your fridge is making noise at night. The compressor helps circulate refrigerant throughout the fridge and keeps it cool. If the compressor is damaged, it can cause a clicking noise. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the compressor.
If your fridge is still making noise after checking all of these things, it’s best to contact a professional for assistance. They will be able to diagnose the problem and get your fridge back in working order quickly and easily.
Is a Noisy Fridge Dangerous?
In most cases, a noisy fridge is not dangerous. However, if the noise is coming from the compressor, it could be a sign that the unit is overworking and about to break down. If this is the case, it’s best to contact a professional for repairs as soon as possible.
Additionally, if you have an older fridge that uses Freon, a leak in the system could be causing the compressor to make noise. Freon is a harmful substance, so if you suspect there’s a leak, it’s best to call a professional technician to come and take a look.
In general, though, a noisy fridge is not something to be too concerned about. Most of the time, it can be fixed relatively easily. However, if the noise is coming from the compressor or you have a leak in your Freon system, it’s best to contact a professional for repairs.
Do Refrigerators Always Make Noise?
No, refrigerators do not always make noise. In fact, most refrigerators only make noise when there’s a problem. If your fridge is making any type of strange noise, it’s best to contact a professional for repairs.
Some common fridge problems that can cause noise include loose items in the fridge banging around, a damaged condenser fan motor, a damaged evaporator fan motor, and a compressor that’s not working correctly. Most of these problems can be fixed relatively easily by a professional technician.
So, if your fridge is making any strange noise, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help.
Conclusion
If your refrigerator makes a strange noise, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem and fix it as soon as possible. There are a few things you can do to try and fix it. The first step is to identify the source of the noise. Once you know where the sound is coming from, you can take steps to correct the problem. If you’re uncomfortable fixing the issue yourself, or if it seems too complicated, call a professional for assistance. In this article, we have outlined the most common causes of fridge noises and how to remedy them. We hope our tips help you get your appliance back up and running smoothly in no time! Have you tried any of these solutions for fixing a Refrigerator Making Noise?
We hope this article has helped you understand what might be causing your refrigerator to make noise and how to fix it.
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