Addressing Unusual Fridge Noises
Refrigerators are not quiet housemates, even if they are brand new. Their hum can be reassuring that they are working and keeping your food fresh. However, excessive noise or specific sounds could be indicators of a problem that warrants examination. Being able to recognize these noises and address them can save you unnecessary fridge repair calls and both time and money, so let’s have a look at some of the most common noises your fridge might make, how to identify them, and how to solve them.
Step 1: Identifying the Noise
The first step is always to identify the noise itself, which can indicate if the noise is something the refrigerator is supposed to make or something that could be a sign of a problem. Everyday fridge noises include humming, buzzing, clicking, rattling, or knocking. Each sound may indicate a different situation, so paying attention to the specific noise can help narrow down the potential issues.
Is the noise coming from the inside of the refrigerator or the back or bottom? If the loud noise comes from the inside, it is likely the fault of the evaporator fan, which circulates the air through the freezer and fridge. Noises from the back could be problems with the defrost timer, condenser fan, or compressor. If the noise emanates from the bottom of the fridge, it is likely the drain pan that has come loose.
If your refrigerator is causing excessive vibration overall, the cause is likely an unlevel fridge.
Step 2: Possible Causes and Solutions
Vibrations
In most cases, vibrations are caused by an unlevel fridge. To address this, adjust the levelling screws or legs to stabilize them.
Gurgling and Buzzing
Gurgling sounds generally occur during the defrost cycle as the ice melts and drains, and they are normal. Buzzing sounds could be from the water dispenser filling up, which is typical if it is connected to a water line. Turn off the ice maker or water dispenser if it is not connected.
Dripping and Hissing
Dripping and hissing sounds typically come from oil in the compressor or refrigerant flow and are normal.
Clicking and Rattling
Clicking from the evaporator valve or adjustments in the compressor or fan is expected, mainly when the fridge regulates different compartments. Rattling may be caused by loose items on or around the refrigerator. Check all parts to ensure they are secured to avoid the fridge’s vibrations causing excessive noise.
Sizzling and Compressor Noises
Sizzling indicates water dripping on the heater during defrosting, which is normal. Another typical sound your fridge may produce is the sound of ice cubes falling or being pushed out of the mould, which may include grinding noises.
Loud Fan Noises
The condenser coils in the back of your fridge can cause loud fan noises. To solve this, unplug your refrigerator and vacuum any buildup.
Step 3: When to Seek Fridge Repair
If the noise persists after identifying and attempting to fix the issue, a larger, underlying problem might require a professional refrigerator repair. Understanding which noises are normal and which are problematic is essential for maintenance and can prevent unnecessary repair costs.
As mentioned above, even perfectly well-working fridges can get louder sometimes, so paying attention to the sounds is critical. Sometimes, between two similar sounds, one may be perfectly normal, and the other one could indicate an issue that should be addressed.
For most of us, a loud noise from your refrigerator will worry you, but sometimes it’s quiet, unusual noises that could indicate the start of a potentially costly issue. For example, a broken or obstructed condenser could cause a scraping or grinding noise. Even if this noise is not loud, you should immediately investigate before the problem gets bigger and more expensive. Similarly, any clicking or buzzing sounds emanating from an ice maker that is not connected to the water supply are not normal and should be checked out.
Rattling sounds could be caused by multiple issues, some of which may or may not be easy to fix. The most common noise a fridge makes is humming, which is the sound of the compressor. As the fridge gets older, that sound might get a bit louder, depending on your use. For example, if the fridge is very full, the compressor has to work harder and will produce a louder noise. If it gets considerably louder or suddenly changes, it might be malfunctioning. On the other side of the spectrum, if your compressor is not making any noise, it has stopped working, which could cause your food to spoil.
Contact the Professionals
If your fridge makes persistent, loud, or unusual noises, iCare Appliance Repair is here to help. Our experienced technicians offer a wide range of services, including freezer door seal replacement, door hinge repair, or structural repairs, to ensure your freezer operates at its best.
With our expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction, you can trust iCare Appliance Repair to deliver reliable and efficient solutions for all your fridge repair needs. Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance, and keep your freezer running smoothly for years to come.
Our technicians at iCare Appliance Repair are factory-trained and licensed to service almost every major model and brand. We are LG-certified servicers, but we are factory-approved by over 20 leading brands. We offer same-day and after-hours repair services, including evenings and late hours. Contact us today at (647) 370-2828 or complete our convenient online form to learn more about our washing machine repair services.
