Did your refrigerator suddenly start making loud pops, clicks, or bangs? Do not rush to panic - in most cases this is not a critical failure, but a feature of the system. But you shouldn’t ignore sounds either: they can signal the imminent failure of key components.
Modern refrigerators (Indesit, Samsung, LG, Atlant etc.) are equipped with complex mechanisms, where each element makes its own sounds. Claps are most often associated with compressor, No Frost fan or thermostat. However, in 10-15% of cases they indicate malfunctions that require the intervention of a specialist.
In this article we will analyze all possible causes - from harmless to dangerous, we will learn distinguish normal from breakdown and provide a checklist of actions for self-diagnosis. And if you have already encountered a problem, take the quick survey below - it will help narrow down your search.
1. Normal sounds of operation: when pops are not dangerous
Not every pop is a cause for concern. Modern refrigerators with system No Frost and inverter compressors are louder than their predecessors. Here are the sounds that are considered normal:
- 🔊 Thermostat clicks. When the compressor is turned on/off, a characteristic sound is heard - this relay is activated. Frequency: 1-2 times per hour.
- ❄️ Crackling of plastic. Body parts expand/contract with temperature changes (especially in the freezer). You can hear light cracklings.
- 🌀 Fan noise No Frost. In models with Full No Frost (Samsung RB37J5230SA, LG GA-B489YDQZ), the fan may touch ice or condensation, producing single pops.
- 🔄 Defrosting cycle. Automatic defrosting in systems Frost Free is accompanied by valve clicks and sounds of flowing water.
How to distinguish normal from breakdown? Normal sounds short-term (1-2 seconds), repeated at intervals and not accompanied by a change in temperature in the cells. If the claps are loud, rhythmic, or the refrigerator has become worse at freezing, read on.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with linear compressors (Atlant MXM 2835-90, Biryusa 140) clicks during startup may be louder than in inverter models. This is not a defect, but a design feature.
2. Compressor: the most common cause of popping noises
The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and 60% of all popping noises are associated with it. Let's consider three situations:
A. Start-up protection relay (PZR) is triggered with a loud click. This is normal if:
- 🔹 The sound is heard when the compressor is started (once every 10-20 minutes).
- 🔹 Refrigerator at the same time starts to hum (means the motor has turned on).
- 🔹 The temperature in the chambers corresponds to the specified one.
If the clicks are repeated more often than once every 5 minutes, and the compressor does not start this is a sign malfunction of the PZR or motor windings.
B. Water hammer in the circuit. In systems with freon R600a (used in Liebert, Beko), when the compressor is started abruptly, a hydraulic shock may occur - a loud bang, as if someone had hit the tube. This is not criticalbut over time can lead to wear of the valves.
B. Wear of shock absorbers. The compressor is mounted on springs that dampen vibration. If they are loose, the engine will “bounce” with a loud knock when starting. It's easy to check: lightly press the compressor with your hand - if it moves easily, the shock absorbers need to be replaced.
| Symptom | Probable cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks every 5-10 seconds, the compressor does not start | Faulty start-up protection relay | Replace the PZR (cost of part: 800-1500 ₽) |
| Loud popping sound when starting, then normal operation | Hydraulic shock in the circuit | Check the oil level and freon (a master is required) |
| Vibration and knocking during operation, the compressor "walks" | Wear of shock absorbers | Tighten the fastenings or replace the springs |
3. Problems with the No Frost system: ice and fans
Refrigerators with No Frost (Samsung RL38T6111SA, LG GB-B459SLQZ) have a fan that blows on the evaporator. If ice or condensation builds up on the blades, popping and grinding noises will be heard when rotating.
How to diagnose:
- Unplug the refrigerator.
- Open the freezer and remove the back panel (if it is removable).
- Check the fan blades for ice or foreign objects.
Common causes of popping noises in No Frost:
- ☃️ Freezing of the drainage hole. Water does not drain, ice forms on the fan.
- 🌀 Ingress of crumbs or packaging into the ventilation ducts.
- 🔧 Fan bearing wear (popping noises + creaking noise when rotating).
⚠️ Attention: Never try to remove ice from the fan with a knife or other sharp objects! Use a hairdryer (cold mode) or wait for natural defrosting.
How to defrost a No Frost refrigerator correctly?
1. Turn off the power. 2. Take out all the products. 3. Leave the doors open for 12-24 hours (depending on the ice layer). 4. Wipe off any condensation with a dry cloth. 5. Before turning on, check that the drainage hole is clean (you can blow it out with a cocktail straw).
4. Thermostat and electronic modules: hidden culprits
If popping noises are accompanied by self-shutdown of the refrigerator or temperature jumps, the problem may lie in:
- 📉 Faulty thermostat (for mechanical models Atlant MX 2824, Stinol 102).
- 🖥️ Failure of the control board (in refrigerators with an electronic display, for example, Samsung RB30J3000EF).
- 🔌 Poor contact in the power circuit (oxidized terminals, frayed wire).
How to check the thermostat:
- Turn off the refrigerator.
- Remove the protective cover from the thermostat (usually located next to the temperature knob).
- Test the contacts with a tester: at room temperature they should be closed.
⚠️ Attention: If after replacing the thermostat the popping noises do not disappear and the refrigerator starts working without stopping, the problem is freon leak or the capillary tube is clogged. Here you need a technician with refilling equipment.
Check the voltage in the outlet (should be 220-230V)|Inspect the plug and cord for damage|Reset the refrigerator settings to factory settings (if there is a Reset button)|Listen to the control board for a crackling sound (a sign of burnt-out tracks)-->
5. Mechanical breakdowns: what can knock inside
Sometimes the clacking is caused by physical contact of parts. Common cases:
A. Loose condenser fastenings (grid on the back wall). When the compressor vibrates, it may touch the housing, producing a metallic knock. Solution: tighten the bolts or install rubber gaskets.
B. Cracks in plastic parts. Over time, plastic becomes brittle (especially in the freezer). When opening the door, popping noises may be heard from breaking guides or seals.
B. Ingress of foreign objects in the space between the body and the inner panel. For example, a fork from a tray or a piece of packaging.
How to find the source of the knocking:
- Turn off the refrigerator.
- Gently shake it on the side - if the sound repeats, the problem is mechanical.
- Inspect the door seal: it could come off and cling to the body.
6. When to call a technician: critical symptoms
Not all breakdowns can be repaired on your own. Contact the service center immediately if:
- ⚡ Popping noises are accompanied by sparking or a burning smell (risk of short short circuit).
- ❄️ Refrigerator does not freeze, but the compressor works without stopping.
- 💧 On the floor under the refrigerator appeared oily puddle (freon leak).
- 🔊 The noise became permanent and resembles the operation of a hammer drill (compressor failure).
Repair cost in 2026 (in Moscow and the region):
| Breakage | Repair price (₽) | Work period |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement of the start-protection relay | 1 200 – 2 500 | 30-60 minutes |
| Repair of the control board | 3 000 – 8 000 | 1-2 days |
| Refilling freon + eliminating leaks | 4 500 – 12 000 | 2-4 hours |
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator is under warranty, do not disassemble it yourself! In 90% of cases this will void the warranty. Contact the brand's authorized service center.
7. Prevention: how to prevent popping noises in the future
To minimize the risk of extraneous sounds:
- 🧊 Defrosting. Even for No Frost, once every 6 months, arrange a “preventive” defrost for 12 hours.
- 🔌 Stable power supply. Connect the refrigerator through a surge protector to avoid power surges.
- 📦 Correct loading. Do not place food close to the back wall - this interferes with air circulation.
- 🛠️ Regular inspection. Once every 3 months, check the door seal and clean the drainage hole.
For models with inverter compressor (LG GA-B509SLGL, Samsung RB37J5230SS) it is important to monitor vibration level. If the refrigerator is not level, the compressor will work with overload, which will lead to premature wear.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about popping noises in the refrigerator
The popping noises appeared after moving. What to do?
Most likely, the fastenings of the compressor or condenser became loose during transportation. Turn off the refrigerator, let it stand for 4-6 hours (so that the oil flows into the compressor), then check:
- Whether the bolts on the back wall are tightened.
- If the case is skewed (use a level).
- Is the power cord touching the fan blades (in models No. Frost).
If the clacking does not disappear, call a technician to diagnose the compressor shock absorbers.
The refrigerator claps and does not turn on. What's the matter?
This is a typical symptom faulty start-up protection relay or turn-to-turn short circuit in the compressor windings. You can check this way:
- Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 10 minutes.
- Turn it on again - if the relay clicks, but the motor does not start, the PZR needs to be replaced.
- If the relay is silent, the problem is in the control board or an open circuit.
⚠️ Do not try to start the compressor manually (for example, by tapping the relay) - this can lead to a fire!
Is it possible replace the No Frost fan yourself?
Yes, if you have experience working with equipment. You will need:
- Buy an original fan (for example, for Samsung DA97-08004A or LG 6601JJ1006A).
- Turn off the refrigerator and defrost it.
- Remove the back panel of the freezer.
- Disconnect the fan power connector and unscrew the fastenings.
⚠️ Pay attention to connection polarity —if you confuse "+" and "-", the fan will rotate in the opposite direction, which will lead to freezing of the evaporator.
The popping sound appeared after power outage. Is this normal?
Yes, this is a standard situation. When the light suddenly turns off, the compressor stops and freon condenses in the circuit. When restarted, the following are possible:
- Water hammers (loud pops in the first 1-2 cycles after switching on).
- Relay clicks (if the network voltage is unstable).
Let the refrigerator run for 1-2 hours - if the sounds do not repeat, there is nothing to worry about. If the pops remain, check voltage stabilizer (the surge may have damaged the electronic board).
Which refrigerator to choose to avoid popping noises?
If silence is critical for you, pay attention to the models:
- Liebert HBCb 1705-100 — compressor with low noise level (38 dB).
- Bosch KAN92VI30R — system VitaFresh with a silent fan.
- Samsung RB37J5230SA —inverter compressor + improved sound insulation.
Avoid models with linear compressors (for example, Atlant MXM 170-80) - they are louder inverter ones. Also check reviews about a specific model: sometimes popping noises are design defect of the series (as in Indesit DF 5200 W 2019-2020).