Why Is My Refrigerator Noisy?
John Turpin is our resident home service repair expert here at Service Direct. He’s got the knowledge and experience to help homeowners like you make sense of most home repair issues. And with Service Direct, we connect you with top-tier service professionals to help with any repairs needed.
Find Out Why Your Refrigerator Is Noisy
All refrigerators make some type of noise, even new ones. It’s mostly humming noises, but sometimes, they can make unfamiliar, annoying, or loud sounds that might be concerning. It makes you worry that something might be wrong with your appliance and that it could be on the verge of breaking down.
If you’ve noticed unusual noises from your refrigerator, it might be a sign of underlying issues. As an essential appliance that helps keep your food fresh and beverages chilled, it’s important to address the matter as soon as you can. With that said, it helps to learn about the common causes of noisy refrigerators and the practical solutions that can help solve the problem.
Common Causes of a Noisy Refrigerator and Solutions to Fix Them
Do you want to know the answer to, “Why is my refrigerator so nosy?” There are plenty of possible reasons why your refrigerator is noisy and most of them are easy enough to fix on your own. Read on to learn more about what you can do to eliminate the noises, and when it’s best to rely on a professional technician.
Condenser Coils
One of the primary sources of noise in a refrigerator is the condenser coils. These coils can be found either at the back or beneath the unit. Over time, these coils accumulate dust and debris, causing the fridge to work harder and generate more noise. Addressing it entails turning off the refrigerator and carefully cleaning the coils using a brush or a vacuum cleaner. Keep in mind to clean the condenser coils regularly to help reduce noise and improve the efficiency of your refrigerator.
Compressor
The compressor is responsible for cooling the refrigerator. It tends to generate humming or buzzing sounds whenever it operates. So, a buzzing sound is normal for a fridge but if it becomes irregular or excessively loud, it might mean a problem with the compressor. Issues like worn-out parts, a failing compressor, or faulty mounting can lead to increased levels. If a bad compressor is why your refrigerator’s noisy, it’s best to call a qualified technician to evaluate the component and perform necessary repairs or replacements.
Defrost Time and Heater
Refrigerators have automatic defrosting systems with a defrost timer and heater. The defrost timer controls the frequency of defrost cycles. On the other hand, the heater prevents ice buildup on the evaporator coils. It’s a common occurrence that when the defrost timer or heater malfunctions, you can hear a loud hissing or clicking sound from the fridge. Consult the user manual for possible solutions or seek the help of a professional to diagnose and repair or replace any faulty components.
Water Valve
Does your refrigerator have a water dispenser or ice maker? If so, then that could be why it is noisy. A malfunctioning water valve can cause a vibrating or rattling sound likely due to water pressure or a worn-out water valve. If you suspect this is the cause of the noise, you should inspect the valve and its connections for any signs of damage or loose fittings. If it’s indeed the cause of the loud sounds, tighten or replace the valve as needed to eliminate the noise.
Fan Motor
Some refrigerators feature additional fans to cool various components like the ice maker or condenser. If these fan motors develop an issue or become worn out, they can create rattling, humming, or whirring noises. In this case, you should contact a professional technician to check the fan motors and replace any defective parts.
Loose or Vibrating Parts
Regularly using a refrigerator will naturally cause some components to get worn down or loosen over time. Loose parts, such as the condenser fan or drain pan, can lead to rattling or vibrating noises. Carefully inspect the refrigerator to identify any loose or improperly installed parts to address this issue. When you find loose parts, tighten them to resolve the noise problem.
Our resident home repair guru, John Turpin, has provided a list of common reasons why your fridge is noisy, along with some suggested solutions and DIY tips to fix it. f
Uneven Placement or Leveling
Uneven placement or leveling is another common reason why a refrigerator is noisy. If the fridge is not properly leveled or the flooring beneath it is uneven, it can lead to vibrations and noise. Fortunately, you simply have to fix the leveling or placement to eliminate the noise. Use a level to ensure that the appliance is evenly balanced on all sides. Adjust the leveling legs or place shims at the bottom of the fridge to achieve a stable and level position.
Age and Wear
It’s important to note that as refrigerators age, they may naturally become noisier due to wear and tear on various components. Also keep in mind that older models may produce more audible sounds than newer, advanced designs. Some noises can be expected, but it’s crucial to be attentive to any sudden or unusual increase in noise levels. If your refrigerator is suddenly louder than it used to be, it may indicate a need for repair or maintenance.
Why is my new refrigerator noisy?
New refrigerators may produce unfamiliar sounds during the initial setup and operation. The sounds you will hear may include clicks, pops, or humming as the appliance adjusts to its environment. Let the refrigerator run for a few days to see if the noises subside. If they don’t, you can refer to the user manual for solutions or contact the manufacturer’s customer support for guidance.
Should I be concerned or worried if my refrigerator suddenly becomes noisier?
If your refrigerator suddenly becomes much noisier than usual, it may indicate an underlying issue. Possible causes include fan motor problems, malfunctioning components, or compressor issues. We advise that you contact a professional technician to check the appliance as they are better able to diagnose the problem and perform any necessary repairs.
Can a noisy refrigerator be fixed or do I have to replace it?
In most cases, you can fix a noisy refrigerator by addressing the underlying issue. Simple repairs, such as tightening loose components or replacing worn-out fan motors, can resolve the noise problem. But if the refrigerator is older and has multiple issues, it might be more cost-effective for you to simply replace it.
Is a noisy refrigerator dangerous?
A noisy refrigerator is generally not dangerous in terms of immediate physical harm. But it can indicate underlying problems that may affect the performance, efficiency, and longevity of the appliance. Issues like temperature fluctuations and component failure have the potential to become fire hazards. This makes it crucial to address excessive noise issues as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure the fridge’s safety and proper functioning.
Why is my fridge so loud all of a sudden?
There are a few reasons why your refrigerator is suddenly so loud. Common causes of loud noises from a fridge include accumulation of dust and debris on the condenser coils, blades, and other components, unleveled or unstable placement of the appliance, vibrations, faulty components, and blocked airflow in the vents. It could be difficult to find the exact reason for the loud noises on your own, so it’s best to enlist the assistance of a professional.
Hire a Local Appliance Repair Expert
A noisy refrigerator can be disruptive and concerning. But if you understand the common causes behind the noise, it will help you diagnose and resolve the issue a lot quicker. Regular cleaning and maintenance of components are also essential, as they help significantly reduce noise levels and ensure your refrigerator is working efficiently. Of course, when in doubt call in an appliance repair expert.