A noisy fridge doesn’t mean your condenser fan motor is bad. Sometimes it could be your evaporator fan motor grommet or the fan motor itself. Although a simple DIY can repair a fridge making loud noises, this isn’t always the case. If there is a need for it, you should let a skilled technician handle more complex repairs.
An old fridge is likely to cause more loud noises than a new one. Also, because an old fridge is at the end of its lifespan, it’s prone to needing multiple repairs at a time. Likewise, if you maintain your fridge poorly, you can expect to hear loud noises frequently.
This article can teach you how to fix a fridge making loud noises. We’ll also explore top fixes and when to buy a new fridge as opposed to expensive repairs. Let’s get into it.
Reasons your Fridge is Making Loud Noises
It’s entirely normal for your refrigerator to make noise while it’s running. However, the noise should resemble a humming sound and shouldn’t be bothersome. Also, if you’re not in the kitchen, the humming sound from the fridge should be inaudible. If the noise becomes loud and disturbing, it could signal a significant issue.
The humming sound shows air to keep your fridge cool is being produced and circulating your fridge. New fridge models only make the humming sound when you open them. Also, if your fridge is relatively new and making loud noises, you may want to check if the refrigerator is level.
Here are possible reasons your fridge is making loud noises.
Solid items inside your fridge are hitting the fridge walls
When you have large items like glass bowls or a jug, you should arrange them properly in your fridge. However, when they come in contact with your fridge wall, they begin to make disturbing, clattering noises.
Also, the vibration from your running fridge causes the solid items to shake inside the fridge. To repair a fridge making loud noises with this as its cause is relatively simple.
All you need to do is take out the solid items from your fridge or rearrange them to fix this problem. Do it in a way that nothing presses against the insides of your fridge. However, if this doesn’t solve it, there could be other probable reasons.
Your fridge isn’t level
Noise can be a factor when one side of the fridge is higher than the other. Typically, fridges come with adjustable stands, which sometimes require adjustments. Also, when your fridge is running, the vibrations may cause it to move and lose the set levelling.
Furthermore, if you suspect your fridge isn’t level, check the adjustable legs using a spirit level. After confirming it, adjust the fridge legs and check with the spirit level again. Ensure all sides of the fridge are level to avoid loud noises from your fridge.
Faulty damper
The flap in between your fresh food section and freezer that opens and closes is the damper. Typically, fridges don’t produce cold air needed to keep fresh foods like fruits fresh. So instead, it makes cold air for the freezer. The damper then opens up to allow some cool air from the freezer into the fresh food compartment.
Furthermore, owing to the nature of the damper, it’s common to find it wears out over time. A worn-out damper can cause a squeaking or creaking sound each time it opens. Also, because your damper opens and closes frequently, the noise can become unbearable.
If your damper appears rusty or extremely dirty, you may have found the cause of your noisy fridge. To remedy this, replace the faulty damper with a new one.
Faulty motors
There are different motors in your fridge, such as evaporator and condenser fan motors. If these motors get worn out, they may cause a loud noise whenever your fridge is running.
Also, you can check to see if your condenser and evaporator fan motors to determine which motor is faulty. Likewise, check their bearings and blades to ensure they aren’t the culprit.
Related Article: How to Fix Wine Fridge Not Cooling
How to Repair a Fridge Making Loud Noises
The first step to repair a fridge making a loud noise is to locate the source. The source of the noise can tell a lot about the faulty part. For instance, noises from the bottom of your fridge may show your drip pan is loose. Also, a loud noise emanating from behind your fridge may indicate a faulty compressor.
To silence a noisy refrigerator doesn’t require the same method for all problems. The process of fixing a faulty defrost timer isn’t the same as fixing a damaged evaporator fan motor. Also, if you hear noises from inside your fridge, your evaporator fan is likely faulty.
How to fix a faulty evaporator fan motor
Inside your freezer compartment lies the evaporator fan motor. While the compressor is working, the evaporator fan motor pulls air over the evaporator coils. Also, if your fridge isn’t as cold as it should be, your evaporator fan motor is the culprit. Likewise, a faulty evaporator fan motor causes ice to freeze for a longer time.
Before checking your evaporator fan motor, you must disconnect your fridge from the electric source. Then, proceed to remove the cover of your evaporator fan. Do the same if the motor shaft refuses to turn freely. Also, if you notice the evaporator fan’s blade is faulty, replace it with a new one.
Furthermore, after replacing the damaged part, reconnect your fridge to its power source. However, do this with caution or engage the services of a skilled technician. Additionally, fixing a faulty evaporator fan motor may appear easy, but it isn’t. Call for fridge repair services if it’s unfamiliar territory for you.
Faulty condenser fan motor
Typically, most new fridges that are frost-free come with a condenser coil that’s fan-cooled. You’d find the condenser coil situated around the back of the refrigerator. Its primary duty is to circulate air over the drip pan, causing defrost water to evaporate. Also, it circulates air over the condenser coil to take away heat.
It’s normal to find the condenser fan motor running simultaneously with the compressor and evaporator fan. If the loud noise from your fridge isn’t coming from inside, it could be the condenser fan motor. Additionally, a faulty condenser fan motor may cause your fridge to come on and go off regularly.
To repair a fridge making loud noise caused by a faulty condenser fan motor isn’t complex. Like other electrical works, you should begin by disconnecting the fridge from electricity. Afterwards, remove the access panel at the back of the refrigerator. Also, look out for debris trapped in the fan motor, preventing it from working adequately.
If you notice the condenser fan blade is damaged, or the motor is faulty, replace it. While at it, look out for wear signs in the rubber grommets. Additionally, keep your condenser fan motor clean always by regularly vacuuming it. Dirt and debris can cause the blade to stop rolling or the motor to malfunction.
Evaporator fan motor grommets
This part of your fridge is responsible for isolating the fan motor from the mounting bracket. With the grommet in place, the vibration noise from the refrigerator reduces.
Also, over time, the grommet becomes worn and detached, causing the fridge to be noisy. To ascertain if the grommet is responsible for a noisy fridge, you’ll need to access it.
To repair a noisy fridge caused by a faulty grommet, remove your fridge from the power source. Next, remove the cover of the evaporator fan situated in the freezer section. Also, take a close look at the grommet to ensure it’s still in place.
If you notice the grommet has moved from its place, reposition it. However, if the grommet is damaged, you may need to replace it with a new one.
Damaged defrost timer
Scraping or ticking sounds may indicate that your defrost timer is faulty. You can detect a faulty defrost timer by looking for frost build-up in your freezer and fridge. Also, if you notice frost build-up, you can check your thermostat to ensure it’s set correctly.
Furthermore, pay attention to how frequently your fridge is making loud noises. For example, replace your defrost timer if the ticking sound is twice a day for almost an hour. Also, before replacing your defrost timer, call for fridge repair services to further investigate the problem.
Loose drip pan
One of the most uncomplicated repairs of a fridge making loud noises is a loose drip pan. Once you notice loud noises from the bottom of the fridge, the drip pan likely got loose. Additionally, to fix this problem, check underneath your fridge and tighten the drip pan.
How Do I Know When to Replace My Fridge?
Several appliances in the home have different lifespans. For instance, a gas stove may last for as long as 15 years. In contrast, electric ones have a life expectancy of 13 years. However, you can expect a standard fridge to last for about 13 years.
Furthermore, your fridge’s lifespan depends on its maintenance and type. Old model fridges may not last as long as the new models. However, you can expect some problems with your fridge from about six years of use.
Sadly, like other home appliances, there will come a time when maintenance and repairs won’t cut it. When that time comes, it’ll save you money and stress to replace the fridge. For instance, if you notice you keep spending a lot to fix your fridge, it may be time to get a new one. Also, if the replacement parts become hard to get or too expensive, the fridge needs to go. Here are signs that show you need to replace the fridge.
Food goes bad before the expiration date
Getting mouldy cheese or soured milk during meals isn’t pleasant. Unfortunately, with a malfunctioning refrigerator, your food tends to go bad even before they expire. Also, if you notice this trend, adjust your fridge’s temperature timer.
According to food safety standards, the minimum temperature you should keep your food is 40 degrees. If, after adjusting the timer, you still get spoiled foods, your fridge needs a replacement. You can save yourself from consuming spilt foods by buying a recent model.
Sweaty fridge
Repairing a fridge making loud noises may indicate a faulty part. However, a sweaty fridge shows that your fridge is no longer capable of cooling sufficiently. If you find moisture on the body of your fridge, check your fridge door seal. But if the seal is fine and the insides of the refrigerator look sweaty, your food may go sour.
Other signs that show your need to get a new fridge are:
- Your fridge is hot to the touch
- Your freezer has too much frost
- Your fridge is consuming too much energy
- Your fridge is over ten years
Tips to Avoid a Noisy Fridge
Noisy fridge repair tips include adequate maintenance and routine checks. You don’t have to wait till your fridge develops a fault before servicing it. Here are tips to keep your fridge quiet.
- Regularly clean the moving parts of your fridge
- Separate your fridge from the floor using a rubber mat
- Use a soundproof room divider to surround your fridge
- Build a soundproof cabinet solely for your fridge
- Soundproof behind your fridge
Related Article: How to Repair Fridge Not Cooling Yourself If You Can
To Sum It Up
To repair a fridge making loud noises, you need to be attentive to the sound coming from. Most homeowners think a noisy fridge shows a faulty compressor or evaporator fan motor.
Although these are likely to be the culprit, a scattered fridge can also cause clattering sounds. Also, putting your fridge on a wooden floor without a vibration mat underneath can cause noise.
While there isn’t a one-solution-fits-a for a noisy fridge, get someone that knows about fridges to help. At Prime Appliance Repairs, we provide top-notch appliance repair services. Use our expert refrigerator repair technicians today.
