Fridge operating sounds

Issue

Fridge operating noises

Applies to

• Refrigeration - All products

Solution

Fridge operating noises

Your new refrigerator may make sounds that your old one didn’t make.

Because the sounds are new to you, you might be concerned about them.

Most of the new sounds are normal. Hard surfaces, like the floor, walls and cabinets, can make the sounds seem louder than they are.

Normal fridge sounds include humming, gurgling, whirring, and clicking, which are caused by the compressor, refrigerant flow, fans, and automatic defrost cycles.

The following describes the kinds of sounds and what may be making them.

Cause

Normal Operating Noises

Humming/Buzzing:

This is normal as your new refrigerator uses a variable speed compressor and fan that at start up and on warm days runs at a high speed to provide additional cooling.

When less cooling is required the compressor and fan will run at a lower speed Note that the compressor noise may seem louder at the start of the on cycle

Gurgling/Hissing:

As each refrigeration cycle ends, you may hear a gurgling sound due to the refrigerant flowing in your refrigerator system.

Whirring:

Airflow noise, as your new refrigerator uses high-efficiency fans to circulate air. Fan speed and noise may increase during periods of heavy usage or hot weather.

Clicking:

The refrigerator has an automatic switching action of the temperature control, turning the compressor on and off.

Ice Maker Noises:

You may hear a buzzing as the ice maker fills, water running, or the sound of ice cubes dropping into the bin.

Popping/Cracking:

Normal as the interior walls of the fridge expand and contract with temperature changes, especially during the cool-down phase.

Loud or Persistent Rattling:

Ensure that the cabinet is level and stable

Check the surrounds of the appliance to ensure there is nothing touching or placed on top of the appliance

Ensure that contents of the appliance are not placed in such a way that they are vibrating (such as bottles)

When to Seek Service

• If you hear any grinding, scraping, loud or unnatural noises that you can't easily identify.
• If rattling noises are persistent and cannot be resolved by levelling the unit or removing obstructions.
• If the normal hum is ‘unusually loud

Contact an Authorized Service Centre.

Electrolux Book a Service

Westinghouse Book a Service