Strange noises from fridge freezer

Last updated 16/03/2023 08:07

Issue

  • The fridge freezer emits strange noises; churning, clunking, clicking, popping, vibrating, running motor
  • The fridge is too noisy
  • 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

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 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



If you are experiencing noises outside of the diagrams or are unsure, please contact our Consumer Care for further support or repair options 

Cause

  • When the fan in the freezer is running, a humming sound is heard. This is a normal sound in the freezer.
  • When the thermostat of a freezer is turned on or off, a clicking sound will be heard. This is a normal sound in the fridge.
  • When refrigerant is injected into the pipes, a hissing/peaking sound will be heard. This is a typical sound. All fridge freezers are equipped with an environmentally friendly refrigerant, so hissing or squeaking noises can be heard compared to older appliances
  • When the compressor of the fridge freezer is running, a humming sound will be heard. This is a normal sound for running the compressor.
  • When the refrigerant in the pipes changes composition, a bubbling sound may be heard. This is a normal sound for a fridge.
  • The cooling of the pipes in the back wall causes a crackling sound. This is a normal sound for a fridge.
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