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Is your refrigerator noisier than usual? While some noise is perfectly normal, a sudden change in the volume or type of noise you hear could indicate a problem. From humming compressors to rattling parts, understanding the different sounds and their causes can help you identify potential issues before they become major problems.
Let’s explore the common refrigerator noises, their causes, and when to take action to ensure your safety and the longevity of your appliance.
What Noise Is Your Fridge Making?
Refrigerators, even new models, always make a little noise since their compressors turn on and off to keep your food at consistent temperatures. Older models tend to be louder in regular operation than newer ones.
Listen to your refrigerator occasionally. If it suddenly starts making louder or different noises, use this guide to help you decide what, if anything, you need to do.
Buzzing or Clicking
A recurring clicking or buzzing sound is often from the icemaker trying to get water if it’s not connected to a water supply. Either connect it to a water supply or locate the shut-off arm or power switch for the icemaker and turn it off to prevent damage.
Grinding, Scraping, or Knocking
These sounds usually result from something hitting the fan blades. Identify if the noise is from the condenser fan at the bottom of the fridge or the evaporator fan at the freezer, then disconnect the power.
Remove the rear access panel to check the condenser fan and look for anything blocking the blades. If the blades are damaged, the fan must be replaced. If it was your freezer fan, look for debris in the fan area or broken parts that need replacing.
Rattling
Rattling and vibrating noises usually indicate loose parts. Often, these are the condenser coils or compressor tubes. If you can locate the rattling source, you can simply tighten it using a screwdriver.
Sometimes, refrigerators rattle when they are not level. Feel your fridge; if it wobbles, adjust the feet to the right height until it is level and no longer wobbles when you try to move it.
Finally, don’t forget to check for things like cookie sheets on the top of the refrigerator rattling when the compressor turns on and off.
Humming
Compressors make humming or low buzzing sounds during regular operation. If that normal humming starts getting much louder or, conversely, stops and does not return, call a licensed repair person to diagnose the problem. These are often expensive repairs and may require a new refrigerator if yours is already over 10 years old.
Sizzling
A sizzling sound is most likely water dripping on the defrost heater. This is fine and requires no action from you.
Popping and Crackling
Similarly, popping and cracking noises typically have simple causes requiring no concern or action. Often, these noises result from the natural expansion and contraction of the metals and plastics as the temperature changes.
When Should You Worry About Your Fridge Noise?
A loud fridge could indicate something is seriously wrong and even be a fire hazard. If your refrigerator suddenly becomes very loud, hire a technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
If your fridge sounds like it might break down, be prepared with a portable refrigerator. There are numerous factors to consider when buying a portable fridge, like capacity, temperature control, wattage, and whether it offers wireless usage or needs to be connected at all times.
The EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator offers up to 40 hours of wireless charge, a separate fridge and freezer, and even a built-in ice maker. It can store perishables and keep food at food-safe temperatures while waiting for a technician or shopping for a new refrigerator.
The best thing about having a portable refrigerator is you can also keep your food safe during a power outage or on camping trips. Even during extended trips or outages, you can easily recharge it using solar panels or an EcoFlow Solar Generator.
For instance, the EcoFlow DELTA 3 Series Solar Generator (PV160W) comes with a 160W solar panel, so you can recharge it while the sun shines, and it will provide plenty of power all night long when the panel is no longer generating electricity.
Or, if you want a more compact and versatile option, the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Portable Power Stations are small enough to fit in a backpack yet powerful enough to recharge your portable refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Compressors make some humming noises during normal operations. A bad compressor can start making very loud humming or buzzing noises you can hear from farther away. Alternatively, sometimes the compressor can shut off and stop making any noise. In both cases, seek a qualified repair person to diagnose and correct it.
Final Thoughts
While most refrigerator noises are harmless and part of their normal operation, any new loud or unusual sounds can indicate more serious issues that may compromise functionality or safety. If your fridge becomes too noisy or stops working altogether, don’t delay calling a repair professional.
In the meantime, prepare for unexpected fridge malfunctions and protect your perishables with a reliable backup option like the EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator, which ensures food safety with up to 40 hours of wireless power and offers versatile recharging options.