Strange noises from Fridge Freezer

Issue

• The fridge freezer emits strange noises; churning, clunking, clicking, popping, vibrating, running motor
• The fridge is too noisy
• The fridge is making a loud noise
• My new fridge is louder compared to the old one

Applies to

• Freestanding/integrated fridge freezers
• Wine coolers
• Integrated fridges/freezers

Resolution

1. Make sure the ventilation requirements are met. Refer to the installation instruction supplied with your appliance

All refrigeration appliances require ventilation to ensure correct operation. This is crucial in the case of integrated appliances, where vents are required for this purpose. Sometimes noises can occur because the appliance performance is affected due to insufficient ventilation.

A minimum of 200 cm² of ventilation must be provided at both the top and the bottom of the cabinetry to allow correct airflow.

For more information refer to the article: Installation of Integrated fridge - ventilation.

2. Make sure nothing is touching the sides or back wall

• Try moving the appliance or adjusting the cabinet.
• Refer to the installation instruction supplied with your appliance.

3. Make sure no objects are touching the inside of the appliance or each other

• Placing items on top of the appliance may cause noises.

4. Your appliance will make various noises during normal operation, including the following:

Please see the below diagrams and the instructional video for examples of the noises that you may hear when the appliance is running:

A gurgling, squeaking, flowing, dripping or bubbling noise:

• These are normal sounds coming from the evaporator when the refrigerant is pumped through the coils or tubing.
• Operating noise may differ from noise in older products due to a new refrigerant formula.

A regular knocking noise:

• A knocking noise may occur when a compressor switches on and off
• These noises are normal.
• Operating noise may differ from noise in older products due to a new refrigerant formula.

Buzzing or beeping noise:

• This is a normal operating noise, which can be produced by mechanical components.

A cracking or popping noise:

• A crackling or popping noise can be heard several times a day.
• These are normal operating noises produced by the automatic defrost cycle and should become less frequent over time.

A clicking noise:

• This is a normal operating noise produced by the thermostat when it is turned on or off.

Vibrating or rattling noises:

• These noises can occur if the pipe system on the back of the product touches a wall or cabinet. This has no effect on the performance of the product.

Why are there Strange Noises Coming From My Fridge?

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Cause

Refrigerators and fridge freezers use several mechanical and refrigeration-system components that can produce different sounds during normal operation. In many cases, these noises are expected and do not indicate a fault.

The most common causes are:

• The compressor starts and stops to maintain the correct cooling temperature. This can create humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds.
• Refrigerant flowing through the cooling system may cause bubbling, gurgling, hissing, or flowing-water sounds as pressure changes within the sealed circuit.
• Automatic defrost systems can create cracking, popping, or dripping noises when ice melts and temperature changes cause components to expand or contract.
• Fans circulating cold air inside the refrigerator or freezer may produce a light whirring sound, particularly after the door is closed.
• Ice makers, water valves, or other automatic functions may generate brief operational noises during their normal cycles.

FAQ – Strange Noises from a Refrigerator or Fridge Freezer

Why is my fridge making bubbling or gurgling noises?
Bubbling and gurgling sounds are usually caused by refrigerant moving through the cooling system and are normally expected.

Why does my fridge freezer make clicking noises?
Clicking sounds can occur when the compressor starts or stops, or when electronic controls activate cooling functions.

Why do I hear cracking or popping sounds inside the refrigerator?
Cracking and popping noises are often caused by internal components expanding and contracting as temperatures change during cooling and defrost cycles.

Why is my refrigerator making a humming or buzzing noise?
A humming or buzzing sound is typically produced by the compressor or circulating fans while the refrigerator is cooling.

Are noises louder after installing a new refrigerator?
Yes. New refrigerators may sound different from older models because of different compressor technologies, improved insulation, and more efficient cooling systems.

When should I book a repair for refrigerator noises?
Consider booking a repair if the noise is unusually loud, has changed significantly from normal operation, or is accompanied by cooling, temperature, alarm, or performance issues.