What to Do When Your Fridge Makes a Noise — Troubleshooting Guide
All fridges make some sound during normal operation — but unusual noises can be a sign that something needs attention. This guide helps you identify what different fridge noises mean and what you should do about them.
Normal Fridge Noises (Nothing to Worry About)
First, let's clarify the sounds that are completely normal:
- Humming or buzzing: This is the compressor running. Completely normal during cooling cycles.
- Gurgling or dripping: Refrigerant flowing through the system. Normal.
- Clicking: The thermostat cycling on and off. Normal.
- Creaking or popping: Plastic panels expanding and contracting with temperature changes. Normal.
- Fan noise: Evaporator and condenser fans circulating air. Normal.
Noises That Need Attention
Loud Rattling or Vibrating
Possible cause: Fridge not level, items on top vibrating, loose condenser drip tray or coils underneath.
What to do: Check the fridge is level using a spirit level. Adjust feet if needed. Remove items from the top. Check the drip tray underneath is properly seated.
Loud Buzzing or Humming (Unusual Volume)
Possible cause: Compressor working too hard (often because of a dirty condenser coil or the fridge is overfull), or the fridge is running too warm.
What to do: Clean the condenser coils at the back or underneath the fridge. Ensure the fridge isn't overpacked. Check there is 10cm clearance behind the fridge.
Clicking That Won't Stop
Possible cause: The compressor is trying to start but failing. This can indicate a failing start relay or compressor issue.
What to do: Check the start relay (a small component on the compressor that rattles like a marble when shaken). If faulty, replace it. If the clicking persists, the compressor may need replacement.
Knocking or Banging
Possible cause: Items inside the fridge or freezer hitting the fan blades, or ice buildup hitting the evaporator fan.
What to do: Check nothing is touching the back wall of the fridge interior. If ice buildup is the issue, defrost the fridge manually.
Hissing or Bubbling (Unusual)
Possible cause: Refrigerant leak. This is a serious issue that requires a professional.
What to do: Contact a qualified appliance repairer. A refrigerant leak means the fridge won't cool properly and can be a safety risk.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Fridge?
If your fridge is over 10–12 years old and making unusual noises, repair costs can quickly exceed the value of the appliance. Oceania Appliances offers quality tested second-hand fridges from $200 — it may be more economical to replace than repair.