Why Your Refrigerator Runs Loud

Your refrigerator is the one appliance you can’t live without, but just because it’s still running doesn’t mean there’s nothing wrong with it. For example, if your refrigerator runs loud, you may only find it slightly annoying, but the sound could be an indication of a larger problem.

The noise could just be coming from something like a rattling drain pan, but it could also be a sign that your refrigerator is working too hard and could break down at any time.

How to Diagnose a Noisy Refrigerator

One of the most common causes of major appliance breakdowns is a lack of proper maintenance. If your refrigerator runs loud, you’ll need to start with the basics:

Dirty Condenser Coils

When was the last time you pulled your refrigerator away from the wall and took a look at your condenser coils, let alone cleaned them properly? Don’t feel bad, you’re not alone! Many people never think twice about maintaining their refrigerator, but that can be a costly mistake.

As dirt and debris build up on the coils over time, they become less efficient. This forces other parts like the compressor to work harder to cool the unit, which may be your refrigerator runs loud or won’t stop running all the time.

How to Clean Condenser Coils

Cleaning your coils is fast, easy, and will improve the efficiency and lifespan of your refrigerator. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Condenser Coil Brush
• Vacuum
• Protective mask

Unplug your refrigerator and pull it away from the wall so you can reach where the coils are accessible. You may need to remove a grill near the bottom of the unit.

Now, put on your mask, turn on your vacuum, and start scraping away any debris from the condenser using your coil brush. Use the vacuum to suck up any dust or particles on the condenser, or that fall on the floor. Now you can plug the unit back in and see if the problem’s been solved.

Defective Fan Motor

Both the evaporator and the condenser inside your refrigerator rely on fans to generate and circulate cold air properly. If one of the fan blades becomes obstructed, or if a fan motor begins to fail, this can cause a persistent noise.

You’ll need to check each fan blade and motor to see if they’re being blocked, or have started to wear out.

How to Diagnose Fan Motors

Locate either the evaporator or condenser fan motor inside your refrigerator and inspect it closely. Make sure nothing is blocking it or impeding it from turning. Next, spin the fan blade with your hand. If you feel any resistance, the motor is most likely defective and needs to be replaced.

If your unit is still making noise after following these instructions, give the refrigerator experts at GFY Appliance Repair a call right away and let us help you get back to some peace and quiet.