Have you ever been startled by a weird noise coming from your refrigerator?
It could be a humming, buzzing, or even a knocking sound that seems to come out of nowhere. While some noises are perfectly normal for a refrigerator, others may indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
For instance, an excessively loud refrigerator does not necessarily indicate a faulty condenser fan motor. Occasionally, the cause could be either the grommet of the evaporator fan motor or the fan motor itself. Likewise, an aged refrigerator is prone to generate a greater amount of weird sounds compared to a recently manufactured one.
While all these and more can cause a refrigerator to make a weird noise, the question is:
How can you fix refrigerator noise?
Before we dive down into this answer, do note that a basic DIY approach can sometimes fix a noisy refrigerator, but this is not always the solution. If there is a necessity, it is advisable to entrust more intricate repairs to a professional appliance repair and installation near you.
Let us begin
Why Is My Refrigerator Making Weird Noises?
It is natural for your refrigerator to produce noise throughout its operation. Nevertheless, the noise ought to be a gentle humming sound and should not be disruptive. If the noise reaches a high volume and causes disruption, it may indicate a substantial problem. Below are several causes of loud noises coming from your refrigerator.
The presence of solid objects in the refrigerator
For optimal organization, it is advisable to organize large things such as glass bowls or jugs in a suitable manner within your refrigerator. Nevertheless, once they make contact with the wall of your refrigerator, they produce unsettling and noisy clattering sounds.
To resolve this issue, simply remove the solid objects from your refrigerator or reorganize them. Do this in a way that prevents any objects from exerting pressure on the interior walls of your refrigerator. Nevertheless, if this solution does not resolve the issue, there may be other potential causes.
The refrigerator is not properly aligned
Most times, the refrigerator is not properly leveled, and this can contribute to the occurrence of noise.
Usually, refrigerators are equipped with adaptable supports that may occasionally need to be modified. Additionally, how the refrigerator vibrates when working may result in its shifting from its initial level.
Moreover, if you have doubts about the level of your refrigerator, examine the adjustable legs with a spirit level. Once you have verified it, fine-tune the refrigerator’s legs and reevaluate its alignment using a spirit level. To prevent more weird noise from your fridge, make sure all sides of the appliance are perfectly level.
Malfunctioning damper
Generally, refrigerators do not generate the necessary cold air to maintain the freshness of perishable items such as fruits. Instead, it produces cold air just for the freezer. For this, the damper subsequently opens to allow chilled air from the freezer into the fresh food compartment.
Moreover, due to the inherent work of the damper, it is frequently observed that it deteriorates with time. In most cases, the constant opening and closing of your damper makes the noise intolerable.
If you observe your damper exhibits signs of corrosion, you have likely identified the source of the weird noise coming from your refrigerator. To rectify this issue, substitute the faulty damper with a brand-new one.
Defective motors
Your fridge contains various types of motors, including evaporator and condenser fan motors. Should these motors become worn, they may generate a significant noise while your refrigerator is in operation.
Additionally, you can inspect the condenser and evaporator fan motors to identify the specific motor that is malfunctioning. Similarly, examine their bearings and blades to verify that they are not the cause of the problem.
How Can I Fix My Refrigerator Making Weird Noise?
To address a refrigerator making a weird noise, look out for the origin of the sound. The origin of the noise can lead you to the faulty part of the refrigerator.
For example, if you hear noises coming from the lower part of your refrigerator, it could indicate that your drip pan is not securely in place. Or perhaps the weird noise from your refrigerator’s rear may suggest a defective compressor.
Let’s examine how to fix some major parts of the refrigerator that may cause weird noises.
A malfunctioning evaporator fan motor
Prior to inspecting the evaporator fan motor, it is imperative to disconnect the refrigerator from the electrical power supply.
Next, proceed to detach the casing of your evaporator fan. Similarly, take the same action if the motor shaft fails to rotate without any resistance. In the event that you observe any defects in the blade of the evaporator fan, it is advisable to replace it with a brand-new one.
Moreover, once you have replaced the defective component, proceed to link your refrigerator to its electrical supply. Nevertheless, exercise prudence or enlist the assistance of a proficient professional. Moreover, rectifying a defective evaporator fan motor may seem straightforward, but it is actually not. If you are not used with fridge repair, it is advisable to contact an appliance repair and installation professionals.
Faulty condenser fan motor
Repairing a refrigerator that is emitting a weird noise due to a malfunctioning condenser fan motor is not a complicated task.
To fix this, it is imperative to first disconnect the refrigerator from the power source. Subsequently, detach the access panel located at the rear of the refrigerator. Additionally, be vigilant for any obstructions, such as debris, that may hinder the proper functioning of the fan motor.
If you observe any damage to the condenser fan blade or detect a malfunction in the motor, it is recommended to replace it. Additionally, be vigilant for indications of wear in the rubber grommets. Also, ensure that you maintain the cleanliness of your condenser fan motor by routinely vacuuming it. Accumulated dirt and debris have the potential to impede the rolling motion of the blade or disrupt the proper functioning of the motor.
Grommets for the evaporator fan motor
To fix a weird noise resulting from a defective grommet, disconnect your refrigerator from the electrical outlet. Next, detach the cover of the evaporator fan located in the freezer compartment. Additionally, carefully inspect the grommet to verify its proper positioning.
If you observe that the grommet has shifted from its original position, proceed to readjust it. Nevertheless, in the event that the grommet is impaired, it may be necessary to substitute it with a fresh one.
Malfunctioning defrost timer
If you hear scraping or ticking sounds, it is likely that your defrost timer is malfunctioning. Faulty defrost timers can be identified by the presence of frost accumulation in both the freezer and refrigerator compartments. In addition, if you observe the accumulation of frost, you can verify the right configuration of your thermostat.
Additionally, be mindful of the frequency at which your refrigerator makes the weird noises. If the ticking sound occurs twice a day for over an hour, it is advisable to change the defrost timer. Prior to changing the defrost timer, it is advisable to contact fridge repair services in order to conduct a more thorough investigation of the issue.
Unsecured drip tray
A loose drip pan is often considered the basic repair approach for a refrigerator making weird noises. So, if you are aware of loud noises emanating from the lower part of the refrigerator, it is probable that the drip pan has become dislodged.
To rectify this issue, inspect the area beneath your refrigerator and securely fasten the drip pan.
Number 1 Appliance Repair and Installation Service
Are you experiencing persistent or excessive noise from your refrigerator? Or are you simply ready to upgrade to a newer, more energy-efficient model?
If so, Best Solution Appliance Repair is here to help. As a top-rated appliance repair and installation service in Toronto, GTA, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Brampton, Milton, Burlington, Hamilton, and surroundings, we have the expertise and experience to get your refrigerator running smoothly again.
Contact us today 647-203-3858 to schedule a service call or to learn more about our appliance repair and installation services.
