Refrigerator Normal Sounds and Noises
Normal Sounds and Noises for Whirlpool Refrigerators
Whirlpoolrefrigerators make a variety of sounds as they cool, defrost, and circulate air. Most are refrigerator's normal sounds and noises, and show the appliance is working as designed. Knowing what to expect—and when a sound may point to a problem—can help you feel confident in your refrigerator’s performance and decide when maintenance or service might be needed. If you are wondering why my refrigerator makes noise, the guidance below explains what is typical and what may need attention.
Your new Whirlpool refrigerator will probably make different sounds or noises than your previous refrigerator. Below is a list of common sounds the refrigerator might be making. Please click on each sound to learn more.
- Buzzing: If the ice maker is not connected to a water supply, the water valve will make a buzzing or clicking sound. A brief refrigerator making a buzzing noise from the water valve may occur during ice or water dispensing. You might also notice a fridge making a buzzing sound as the icemaker fills.
- Chattering when dispensing: The water line may be kinked.
- Grinding or Squeaking: Doors may be rubbing against cabinets or other surfaces when opening.
- Gurgling: Refrigerant flowing through the tubes after a cooling cycle.
- High-Pitched or Pulsating: Compressor fans are adjusting to optimize performance.
- Popping or Cracking: Contraction and expansion of the inside walls.
- Rattling or Vibrating: Flow of refrigerant through the cooling system or water through the water line, items on top of the refrigerator, or the refrigerator not level.
- Sizzling, Hissing, or Water Dripping: Water dripping onto the defrost heater during the defrost cycle.
- Thumping or Hammering: Water line during a fill cycle.
- Humming: The compressor and fans run to maintain consistent temperatures. A low, steady hum is common, especially after the doors have been opened.
- Clicking or tapping: Relays and control boards click as they switch components on and off. A single click can occur when the compressor starts or stops.
- Gurgling or bubbling: Refrigerant moving through the tubing and defrost water flowing to the drain pan can create gentle gurgles or trickling sounds.
- Swooshing or whooshing: Evaporator and condenser fans circulate air. A soft airflow sound helps maintain even cooling across compartments.
Tips for Reducing Unwanted Noise Levels
Small adjustments can reduce sound and vibration without affecting cooling performance. These steps help if you notice a refrigerator making a loud humming noise or a fridge making a loud noise after relocation or loading groceries.
Recommendations:
- Choose a solid, level floor: Place the refrigerator on a sturdy surface. Avoid flexible floors that can transmit vibration.
- Keep condenser areas clean: If your model has accessible condenser coils, vacuum dust as directed in the user guide to help the compressor run efficiently and quietly.
- Secure items: Inspect items that may be sitting on top of the refrigerator cabinet, which could vibrate.
Ensure the refrigerator is level:
- Front-to-back and side-to-side leveling: Place a bubble level on the cabinet top. Adjust the front leveling legs until the doors close smoothly and the unit is stable.
- Door alignment: A properly leveled refrigerator reduces hinge strain and helps prevent creaks or squeaks when doors open and close.
If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.