How to Fix a Fridge Making Noise: Identify the Sound and Fix the Cause
A fridge that suddenly starts making new or unusual noises is worth investigating. While some noises are completely normal (all fridges make sounds), others can indicate a developing fault. This guide explains which fridge noises are normal, which indicate a problem, and what to do about each.
Normal Fridge Noises
Before diagnosing a problem, it helps to know what a healthy fridge sounds like. All fridges make some noise during normal operation:
- Low humming: The compressor running. Normal. The hum may vary in pitch as the compressor cycles on and off.
- Gurgling or bubbling: Refrigerant moving through the pipes. Normal. More noticeable after the door is opened or the compressor starts.
- Clicking: The thermostat or defrost timer cycling on and off. Normal.
- Cracking or popping: Thermal expansion and contraction of internal plastic components. Normal, often more noticeable in cold weather or when the fridge first starts up.
Noises That Indicate a Problem
Loud Rattling
Most likely cause: Item on top or inside vibrating, or loose drain pan
Check whether anything is resting on top of the fridge or touching the back or sides. The fridge's compressor vibration can rattle items placed on top. Inside, the drain pan (a shallow tray under the fridge that collects defrost water) can rattle loose over time. This is accessible from the back or bottom of the fridge on most models and can be reseated or secured.
Loud Buzzing or Humming (Louder Than Normal)
Most likely cause: Failing compressor or ice build-up around the fan
A buzzing that's significantly louder than the fridge's usual hum can indicate a failing compressor. Before calling a technician, check whether ice has built up around the evaporator fan (usually in the freezer compartment). Ice build-up around the fan blades causes a loud buzzing or whirring as the blades hit the ice. Defrosting the freezer manually often resolves this. If the buzzing continues after defrosting, the compressor may be failing — a technician inspection is warranted.
Knocking or Tapping
Most likely cause: Compressor mounting
A knocking sound during compressor start-up can indicate worn compressor mountings. The compressor is suspended on rubber anti-vibration mounts that can harden and crack over time. This is a technician repair.
Squealing or Chirping
Most likely cause: Evaporator fan motor bearing
A high-pitched squealing or chirping sound that comes from inside the freezer compartment is typically a failing evaporator fan motor. The motor bearing wears and produces this sound. The fan motor is a relatively inexpensive replacement and a straightforward technician repair.
Grinding
Most likely cause: Ice maker mechanism or fan hitting ice
Grinding sounds from a fridge with an ice maker can indicate the ice maker mechanism is jamming or the ice maker arm is stuck. Check the ice bin for over-filling or clumped ice. If the grinding comes from inside the freezer (not the ice maker area), ice build-up around the fan is the most likely cause.
Quick Check Before Calling a Technician
- Remove items from the top of the fridge
- Pull the fridge slightly away from the wall and check nothing is touching the back
- Recheck that the fridge is level (adjust levelling feet if needed)
- If the noise is from the freezer, manually defrost to check for ice build-up
- Check the drain pan under or behind the fridge for looseness
Repair or Replace?
If your fridge is more than 10 years old and the repair cost exceeds $400–$500, replacement is worth considering. Oceania Appliances stocks quality-refurbished fridges with 3-month warranty and free Sydney delivery. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park (open 7 days, 10am–8pm), call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au.