How to Quiet Your Noisy Refrigerator In 8 Easy Steps

Is your refrigerator making noises that are keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. As refrigerators age, it’s common for them to develop issues that lead to bothersome noises.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the most common causes of a noisy refrigerator and provide actionable tips to quiet it down. Sticking around will empower you to troubleshoot the issue on your own or know when to call in a professional.

With a few simple fixes, you can restore peace and quiet to your kitchen. Don’t put up with sleepless nights due to appliance noise – take control and create the tranquil home environment you deserve.

Read on to discover proven techniques to silence a noisy refrigerator for good.

why is my refrigerator so noisy?

Living with a noisy refrigerator can be annoying and disruptive. But before you call in an expensive appliance repair person, it helps to understand some of the common issues that cause refrigerator noises. In my experience, diagnosing the potential source of the noise yourself first is the best way to address a noisy refrigerator.

There are several mechanical components in a refrigerator that can generate unwanted sounds when they malfunction or fall out of adjustment. Here are some of the most common culprits and solutions.

Failing or Dirty Condenser Fan

The condenser fan is a critical component that circulates air over the condenser coils on the back of your refrigerator. Its job is to cool down the refrigerant after it exits the high-pressure side of the compressor.

A failing or obstructed condenser fan is one of the most common reasons for a noisy refrigerator. As the fan struggles to spin or gets blocked by dust and debris, it can make loud rattling, buzzing, or grinding noises.

In my experience, these noises tend to be louder when the condenser fan first turns on and may fade after it gets up to full speed. The noises also increase as the fan motor wears out over time.

Fortunately, fixing a noisy condenser fan is usually an easy DIY job. First, unplug the refrigerator and pull it out from the wall to access the back panel. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to clean out any accumulated dust or dirt from the fan blades and surrounding condenser coils.

If cleaning doesn’t fix the issue, the condenser fan motor likely needs to be replaced. On some models, the entire fan assembly can be changed out in under 30 minutes.

Worn Out or Failing Compressor

The compressor is the heart of a refrigerator’s cooling system. It pressurizes and circulates the refrigerant that absorbs heat from inside the fridge.

A compressor making groaning, grinding, or loud knocking sounds often indicates issues with the compressor’s internal components. As the unit ages, the mounting bolts can also come loose and cause banging noises.

Unfortunately, repairing compressor issues requires the specialized skills and tools of an appliance technician. Replacing a worn-out compressor may cost $200-$600 for parts and labor.

To extend the life of your compressor, keep the condenser coils clean, replace the drier if the system was ever opened up for repairs, and call a technician if you ever hear strange compressor noises before they lead to complete failure.

Evaporator Fan Hitting Housing

The evaporator fan is responsible for circulating cold air through the interior compartments of your refrigerator.

If you hear a buzzing, clicking, or rattling sound coming from the rear wall inside the fridge, it could indicate a problem with the evaporator fan.

In my experience, the most common issue is that the fan blade has come loose and is vibrating against the housing. This can happen after a shelf or food item bumps into the fan cover and knocks it out of position.

To fix this, unplug the fridge and remove the evaporator cover. Carefully adjust the fan blade so it has at least 1/4″ clearance from the housing. While you have the cover off, vacuum out any dust to allow maximum airflow.

If the fan blade is damaged, the entire evaporator fan assembly will need replacement. Thankfully, this repair typically costs under $100 in parts.

Loose Parts Rattling Around

Sometimes a noisy refrigerator is the result of loose parts vibrating and rattling against each other or the fridge walls.

Some common sources of rattling noises include:

• Loose shelves or door bins
• The water line vibrating against the back of the fridge
• Ice maker parts knocking around
• Loose compressor or fan mounts

Go through the fridge compartment by compartment and listen for rattling noises, then identify the problematic area. Remove any detachable parts and make sure they are properly re-installed.

Use foam, rubber pads, or adhesive foam tape to cushion parts prone to vibration. Check for loose tubing and use zip ties to secure it out of the way. Tightening mounts and screws is also helpful for reducing rattling from internal components.

Items Stacked Improperly

Believe it or not, how you organize your refrigerator can lead to excess noise if items are stacked poorly.

For example, placing heavy items on top of flimsier shelves can cause them to rattle or crack when the compressor cycles on. Cans or jars stacked too high may also fall over and rattle against each other.

Take time to re-organize your refrigerator compartments. Heavier items should be placed on sturdier, lower shelves while lighter items can go up higher. Use refrigerator organizational bins to prevent items from tipping over.

With some simple adjustments, you can prevent stored foods and containers from vibrating against each other and the fridge walls.

Ice Maker Issues

If you have an automatic ice maker installed, it can also be a source of noise when it malfunctions.

Common sounds from a faulty ice maker include:

• Loud buzzing or humming
• Clunking or clanking as it tries to eject ice
• Constant dripping noises from a stuck fill valve
• Ice cubes rattling in the tray or against the ejector’s arms

Try resetting the ice maker and inspecting for jammed cubes or broken parts. If the noises persist, there may be larger issues with the water inlet valves, mold heating element, or motor.

Consult your refrigerator manual for ice maker troubleshooting tips. Replacing problematic ice maker parts often quiets it down.

Clogged Defrost Drain

Frost buildup inside the freezer can lead to noises when it blocks the defrost drain. Refrigerators go through automatic defrost cycles to melt away this frost before it accumulates.

If the drain gets clogged, melting ice has nowhere to drain. It can refreeze elsewhere in the fridge, leading to gurgling sounds or water trickling noises.

To fix this, unplug the fridge and clear the drain with a turkey baster or pipe cleaner. You may need to manually defrost the freezer coils to fully clean out the drain line.

Be sure to monitor for future clogs and make sure the fridge defrosts properly. A functioning defrost system means fewer odd gurgling noises.

How to Diagnose What’s Causing Your Refrigerator to Make Noise

Unusual noises coming from your refrigerator can be frustrating and disruptive. But determining the root cause of the noise is the first step toward fixing the problem. With some diligent troubleshooting, you can often diagnose the issue yourself before calling in costly appliance repair technicians.

Here are the best methods for tracking down the source of unwanted refrigerator noises:

Listen Carefully to Isolate the Noise

When you first hear an odd noise from your refrigerator, stop and listen carefully. Make note of important details:

• Is it rattling, humming, buzzing, knocking etc.? Identifying the type of noise provides clues to the failing part.
• Where does it seem loudest? Top, sides, back or interior? This helps pinpoint the location.
• When does it occur? For instance, during compressor on/off cycles.
• How long does it last? Intermittent or constant noise?

Capturing these details right away makes it easier to isolate the cause. Don’t just open your fridge and poke around yet. Take time to listen first.

Note When the Noise Happens

Pay attention to any patterns in the refrigerator noise. Importantly, does it only occur when the compressor switches on or off?

• Compressor-related noises tend to signal issues with the condenser fan, compressor motor/mountings or refrigerant flow.
• Noises during the compressor off-cycle typically come from the evaporator fan hitting its housing or rattling internal parts.

Make notes so you can correlate noises with fridge operations. This provides valuable troubleshooting clues.

Locate the Source of the Noise

Now open the refrigerator and hone in on where the noise emanates from.

• Put your ear to the lower back panel. The condenser fan lives here.
• Remove items to expose the interior walls and find rattling issues.
• Check the freezer and ice maker.
• Does the noise come from underneath? Could be compressor mountings.

Methodically listen around the entire appliance to zone in on the location. Getting up close to the source helps create targeted solutions.

Consider Recent Changes

Think back, have you made any changes lately that align with the noise?

• Did you add lots of new items or overstack containers? This can cause rattling.
• Are there new temperature fluctuations? This could point to failing parts.
• Did you change any settings like ice maker operation?

Making a mental timeline of fridge changes and noise may reveal associations. Even small details like rearranging items can spark refrigerator noises.

Check for Visual Issues

Does simple observation expose anything that could cause noise? Signs may include:

• Dust buildup on condenser coils or fan.
• Frost or ice blocks air flow and drainage.
• Leaking water from an ice maker or clogged defrost drain.
• Out-of-position parts like tilted fan blades.
• Loose items that may rattle against each other.

Your eyes can detect problems your ears heard. Use visual clues to continue isolating the origin.

How to Quiet Your Noisy Refrigerator

A constantly humming, buzzing or rattling refrigerator can drive anyone crazy. In my experience, a noisy fridge not only causes annoyance but could signal problems with the appliance. Fortunately, there are several effective DIY fixes to help silence a loud refrigerator.

Level Out the Refrigerator

One of the most common reasons for persistent refrigerator noise is incorrect levelling. If the fridge is tilted or unbalanced, it can vibrate and cause loud hums or rattles. Properly levelling the refrigerator helps stabilize it and reduces noise-causing vibrations.

Levelling is crucial to prevent strain on the fridge doors and hinges. An unleveled refrigerator has to work harder just to operate normally. This added strain puts more pressure on parts and leads to faster wear and tear.

Start by checking if your refrigerator is evenly levelled:

• Use a bubble-level tool on top of the fridge, checking side-to-side and front-to-back.
• Locate the levelling legs on the front bottom corners. Adjust each one as needed to raise or lower that corner.
• It may take some trial and error to get each corner perfectly even. Take your time and avoid over-adjusting any one leg to prevent throwing off the overall balance.

If your floor itself is uneven, you may need to place shims under the levelling legs or wheels on the lower side to compensate.

Test run your levelled fridge – open and close the doors, and listen for any buzzing or rattling sounds. Levelling can instantly reduce noise in many cases.

Clean All Moving Parts

Over time, accumulated debris and dirt on moving refrigerator parts can lead to loud noises. Giving these areas a thorough cleaning helps reduce friction and noise:

• Clean condenser coils and fins on the fridge back to enable proper airflow. Use a duster, brush and condenser coil cleaner spray.
• Remove any dust or dirt from the evaporator fan blades behind the interior rear panel. A few drops of motor oil can also help lubricate the fan motor.
• Clear out any clogs or buildup in the ice/water dispensers and lines which can cause humming. Flush with water or use pipe cleaners.
• Clean sticky gaskets, hinges and door seals with warm soapy water to prevent air leaks and rattling.
• Lubricate any sliding shelves, crisper drawers etc. with a silicon spray to prevent friction squeaks.

Keeping all moving components cleaned and lubricated reduces strain and noisy vibrations when the fridge cycles on. Maintain this cleaning every few months.

Use a Soundproofing Mat

Sound absorption pads and anti-vibration mats are very effective at muffling refrigerator noises. They prevent noise transfer to the surrounding floor and walls:

• Closed-cell foam mats work great under or around noisy refrigerators. The dense foam blocks vibrations.
• Felt and rubber pads also absorb vibrations well. Self-stick versions make installation easy.
• Place mats under the entire refrigerator, focusing on the front levelling legs. Also, place pads under particularly noisy compressors.
• Don’t block any ventilation grilles on the fridge bottom when positioning mats to allow airflow.
• Target ice maker and water dispenser areas which commonly transfer noise through the floor.

Soundproofing mat solutions are inexpensive and easy to install. They offer immediate noise reduction for any refrigerator model or issue.

Move the Fridge Into an Alcove

Situating your noisy refrigerator inside a recessed alcove in your kitchen helps to muffle sounds. Alcoves act like a mini sound booth:

• The surrounding walls block noise and prevent it from spreading through the room. Side walls also absorb some rear compressor vibrations.
• Allow at least 2 inches of clearance around the fridge for ventilation. The alcove should be no deeper than the fridge itself.
• Standard alcove dimensions are 36-42 inches wide, and 30-34 inches deep. This accommodates most French door or side-by-side refrigerator sizes.

Creating an alcove for the refrigerator traps noises and limits transfer to other areas of your kitchen. But be mindful of ventilation needs.

Soundproof Behind the Refrigerator

If the rear of your fridge faces an open room, soundproofing the wall behind the appliance is very effective:

• Attach mass-loaded vinyl or acoustical panels directly to the wall behind the refrigerator. This dampens compressor vibrations.
• Alternatively, use soundproofing paint or a heavy rubber mat hung on the wall. Seal edges with acoustical caulk.
• Leave 2-3 inches of space between fridge and soundproofed wall for ventilation.

Installing sound absorption materials behind the refrigerator muffles noise radiating from the rear. This also blocks sound from transmitting to adjacent rooms.

Remove Items Sitting on Top of the Fridge

Take a look at the top of your refrigerator. Items stored up there like decorations or extra appliances can actually amplify noise:

• These objects can vibrate as the refrigerator operates below, essentially becoming little speakers boosting the sounds.
• Remove everything from the top fridge surface. Find alternative storage like shelves or cabinets for these items.
• Be careful not to block the top ventilation grilles which allow crucial airflow.

Eliminating any objects sitting directly on the refrigerator prevents the amplification of noises through vibration effects. This simple fix can make a noticeable difference.

Inspect the Compressor

The refrigeration compressor is a common culprit for persistent humming and buzzing noises. As the compressor ages and wears, sound and vibration issues are more likely:

• The compressor pumps refrigerant through the fridge coils to enable cooling. Faster cycling on/off and harder workings can increase noise.
• Access the compressor at the fridge rear and listen closely for odd sounds. Feel for excess vibration.
• Adding a sound blanket wrap or replacing worn compressor mounts can help quiet compressor noises.
• For severe compressor issues, contact a refrigerator repair technician for service. Replacement may be required.

Checking the compressor and muffling sounds directly at the source is an effective solution. But leave complex compressor repairs to the appliance pros.

Inspect the Control Board

The control or main circuit board is essentially the refrigerator’s brain – controlling temperature, defrost cycles, compressor operation and more based on sensor inputs.

Issues with the control board can manifest as odd noises:

• Faulty components on the board can direct the compressor or fans to cycle on and off erratically, leading to humming or pulsating sounds.
• Check for any loose wiring connections, burnt components or capacitors. Ensure the board is clean.
• If the control board seems faulty, replacement by a technician may be the best solution for resolving any related noises.

Since the control board oversees so many refrigerator operations, noises may signal it needs repair. Handle this delicate component with care.

With diligent troubleshooting and repairs, you can successfully eliminate annoying refrigerator noises. Just be cautious about working with electrical components and call in experts when needed.

Let me know if you have any other quieting tips based on your own experience!

are all new refrigerators noisy?

No, not all new refrigerators are noisy. While it’s common for new fridges to make some low humming or vibrating sounds as compressors and fans operate, excessive noise in a brand-new appliance typically indicates an issue.

Factors like improper levelling, loose parts or defective components can cause unacceptable noise levels. If a new refrigerator is buzzing, rattling or humming loudly, first try basic troubleshooting like adjusting levelling feet.

But don’t hesitate to contact the retailer or manufacturer if noise persists, as you may need a replacement. With quality construction and proper setup, most modern refrigerators operate very quietly.

are frigidaire refrigerators noisy?

Frigidaire refrigerators are generally not considered noisy appliances. As a reputable brand, Frigidaire designs its refrigerators to operate quietly and minimizes sounds from compressors and fans.

However, any refrigerator can develop noises over time from normal wear, improper installation, or defective parts. If your Frigidaire fridge starts buzzing or rattling loudly, try basic troubleshooting steps first. But don’t hesitate to contact Frigidaire if the noise persists, as you may need service or replacement under warranty.

are fridge noisy when new?

It’s normal for new refrigerators to make some minor noises when first plugged in, but they should not be excessively loud. The compressor and internal fans will produce low humming and vibrating sounds as they begin cooling. However, loud rattling, buzzing or banging noises in a brand-new refrigerator likely indicate an issue that needs attention.

is a noisy fridge dangerous?

A noisy refrigerator is not inherently dangerous, but the underlying issue causing the noise could potentially become hazardous if left unchecked. Excessive buzzing, rattling or humming noises from your fridge should never be ignored, as they signal a problem that needs attention. Issues like an unbalanced refrigerator, loose parts or a failing compressor can lead to strain on electrical systems if not properly repaired.

FAQs: Noisy Refrigerator

conclusion

Dealing with a constantly buzzing, humming, or rattling refrigerator can be incredibly frustrating. But in most cases, you can successfully troubleshoot and implement fixes to reduce the noise on your own without needing costly repairs.

Simple solutions like levelling, lubricating, or cleaning components often do the trick. If basic DIY doesn’t solve the problem, don’t live with the noise – call in an appliance technician to inspect and service your fridge.

With the right repairs, you can restore peace and quiet to your kitchen. Let me know in the comments if you have any other tips that have worked to silence a noisy refrigerator in your household!