Having a noisy refrigerator in your home can be very irritating. Even more annoying is when the source of the noise turns out to be an expensive problem to fix.
So if your refrigerator is making a strange noise, take the time to examine the refrigerator and find the source of the noise.
Not sure how to diagnose and fix a noisy refrigerator? Keep reading to learn how to fix common problems that cause your fridge to be noisy.
And remember, always unplug the refrigerator before cleaning or repairing the unit.
Is Noise Coming From the Bottom?
If you hear an annoying sound coming from the bottom of the refrigerator, rest assured it’s an easy fix.
Most of the time, this noise is a sign your drain pan is out of place. Simply re-secure the drain fan, and enjoy the sound of silence. Easy peasy, grilled cheesy!
Is Noise Coming From the Back?
In this case, a few reasons could explain the noise. There may be a problem with your compressor, condenser fan or defrost timer.
If the compressor is broken, note that a replacement unit is likely to be expensive. You will probably have to replace the defrost timer if that is where the noise is coming from.
If the cause of the noise is the condenser fan, try to clean it before replacing it. Grab a soft brush and dust away any debris that exists on or in-between the fan blades. It may save you the cost of repair.
Is Noise Coming From the Inside?
If you determine that the annoying sound is coming from the inside, it’s most likely due to the interior fan that generates airflow through the freezer and fridge sections.
The easiest way to make this determination is by pushing the freezer light switch. If it gets louder, then you know the circulation fan is the problem.
Unfortunately, the only way to solve this issue is by replacing the fan.
Inspecting the Evaporator Fan Motor
The evaporator fan pulls air over the coils when the compressor is running. You’ll find it in the freezer compartment. So if you’re hearing a loud noise coming from the freezer, the culprit is likely to be the evaporator fan motor.
Unplug the refrigerator and take off the evaporator fan cover. If you find that the noise is a result of ice or frost, a defrost problem may be at the heart of the issue. You will need to replace the fan if the blade is too loose or damaged or if the motor doesn’t run easily.
Inspecting the Condenser Fan
If your fridge has a condenser fan, it is likely to be located on the back of the unit behind the access panel. Again, dust or vacuum the condenser motor fan and eliminate any debris that is obstructing the fan and keeping it from working properly.
You may need to replace the condenser fan if it is noticeably worn or even seized.
Is the Compressor the Problem?
People often hear noise from the compressor and assume that it needs repair. But many times, the problem is actually a faulty condenser fan.
How do you know whether the problem is coming from the compressor or the condenser fan? Use the process of elimination to your advantage. Unplug the condenser fan motor and then plug your refrigerator back in. If the noise continues, the problem is likely the compressor.
Repairing the compressor is a job best suited for professionals like Melbourne Fridgeworks.
The Bottom Line About a Noisy Refrigerator
If you have a noisy refrigerator, you may be able to diagnose and fix the problem yourself. Listen to the noise and try to determine where it is coming from. Then, use our tips above to see if you can fix the problem.
If this article was helpful to you, please check back often as we update our content daily.