Buying new household appliances is always a joyful event, which, however, can be overshadowed by an unpleasant surprise in the form of a loud hum or vibration immediately after switching on. Beko refrigerator deservedly popular due to its reliability and modern technologies, but even new models can exhibit sound effects that frighten owners.
In this article we will analyze in detail the physics of the processes inside the compressor and refrigerant so that you can distinguish normal operation from a serious malfunction. Often, what seems to be a breakdown is only a feature of a digital inverter compressor or the result of improper transportation.
Understanding the nature of sounds will help you avoid unnecessary calls to the technician or, conversely, notice a critical problem in time. Let's figure out why your the new unit makes sounds and when you should start sounding the alarm.
Physiology of sound: normal operating modes of the compressor
Modern refrigerators, including models Bekoare equipped with highly efficient compressors that operate on the principle of gas compression and expansion. As the refrigerant circulates through the pipe system, sounds arise that for old equipment would be a sign of wear, but for new equipment they are the norm.
This is especially true for models with No Frost i Low Frostwhere fans and defrost systems are actively working. The hum may intensify when the engine starts or when switching to intensive freezing mode.
It is important to understand that the sound of gurgling or liquid flowing is a normal phenomenon. The refrigerant, changing from liquid to gaseous and back, creates characteristic acoustic effects.
If you hear clicking sounds, this may be a thermal relay or pressure control valves. Inverter motors are known for their ability to smoothly change speed, which is sometimes accompanied by a whistling or howling sound at high frequencies.
- 🔊 Humming: uniform low-frequency sound of a running motor-compressor.
- 💧 Gurgling: the sound of freon moving through the capillary tube and evaporator.
- 🔄 Fan noise: characteristic whistling of air in No Frost circulation systems.
- ⚡ Clicks: activation of the start-up relay or valves.
⚠️ Attention: If the hum is accompanied by a sharp metallic clang or knocking sound similar to hammer blows, immediately unplug the device. This may indicate destruction of the internal elements of the compressor.
Transportation and settling time: a critical stage
One of the most common causes of noise, vibration and even complete failure of a new refrigerator Beko is a violation of transportation rules. When transported on its side or at a strong angle, oil from the compressor could flow into the refrigerant circulation circuit.
If you turn on the equipment immediately after delivery, the compressor will run dry or try to pump the oil plug, which causes severe vibration and a loud knock. Hydraulic hammer in a closed system it can damage the unit within in a matter of minutes.
Where does the oil go during transportation?
When transported on its side, the oil from the compressor crankcase flows into the evaporator or condenser tubes. If the slope was towards the rear wall, oil could get into the defrost circuit. Switching on without settling will result in the piston group operating without lubrication, and the oil will create a plug that prevents the circulation of freon.
Manufacturers recommend allowing the equipment to stand in a vertical position for a certain time before the first start. This is necessary so that the oil flows back into the compressor crankcase, and the temperature of the internal components becomes equal to room temperature.
The settling time directly depends on how exactly the refrigerator was transported. In winter, this process may take longer due to condensation and freezing of the lubricant.
- ❄️ Winter transportation: 4 to 8 hours are required for acclimatization and oil drainage.
- 🌡️ Summer transportation: 2-4 hours in a vertical position is sufficient.
- 🚚 Transportation lying down: The minimum layover time should be 8-12 hours.
Ignoring this rule is the most common mistake of users. Even if the refrigerator is visually intact, wear of the rubbing parts inside the system could have already begun.
Installation problems: flat floor and gap near the wall
It would seem like a trivial reason, but it is incorrect installation that is responsible for 60% of noise complaints. If the legs of the refrigerator Beko are not level, the body will be skewed. This leads to the fact that the door may not fit tightly, and the unit itself will vibrate when the compressor is running.
The vibration is transmitted to the floor and walls, creating a resonating hum that seems much louder than it actually is. Adjusting the supports is the first thing to do after unpacking.
☑️ Checking the installation of the refrigerator
In addition, it is important to ensure proper ventilation. If the refrigerator is moved close to the wall, heat will not be removed from the condenser. The compressor will begin to work with increased load, trying to compensate for overheating, which inevitably leads to an increase in noise level.
| Parameter | Normal | Consequences of violation |
|---|---|---|
| Gap to the wall | Minimum 5-7 cm | Overheating, loud fan operation |
| Floor slope | 0 degrees (strictly horizontal) | Vibration of the case, door knocking |
| Contact with furniture | Absent | Transmission of vibration to cabinets (resonance) |
| Load on the shelf | Uniform | Rattling of dishes inside cameras |
Check that the sides of the refrigerator do not touch the walls of the kitchen unit. Even a light touch can turn the quiet hum of the motor into an obsessive rattling sound.
No Frost system and fan operation
Models Beko with No Frost technology are equipped with fans that forcefully circulate cold air inside the chambers. The noise from the fan is a normal situation, but its character may change.
Usually this is a uniform air flow. However, if you hear a whistling, crackling or intermittent hum, there may be a foreign object on the fan blades. ice or foreign object.
Often the problem lies in the fact that storage products (bags, foil) are moved too close to the back wall where they are located air ducts The fan can touch them with its blades, creating a rhythmic knock.
It is also worth considering that at the time the defrosting system starts or immediately after its completion, the fan can work in an enhanced mode to quickly distribute the temperature. This is a temporary phenomenon that goes away after 10-15 minutes.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to disassemble the fan unit yourself if the refrigerator is under warranty. Breaking the seals on the rear panel will result in refusal of service.
External factors: resonance and environment
Sometimes the source of noise is not the refrigerator itself, but objects located next to or inside it. Vibration from a running compressor is transmitted to all surfaces with which the unit comes into contact.
Check the shelves inside the chambers: the glass shelves should fit tightly in the grooves, and the bottles should not touch each other. Empty plastic containers can rattle from the slightest vibration.
If the refrigerator is on a wooden or laminate floor, the hum may be amplified due to the resonance of the building structure. In such cases, it is recommended to use special vibration-isolating mats or pads under the legs.
Also pay attention on what is on the top lid of the refrigerator. Microwave ovens, vases or boxes may vibrate synchronously with the speed of the compressor.
When it's time to call a technician: signs of malfunction
Although a new one may make noise within normal limits, there are signs indicating a manufacturing defect or damage during delivery. If you notice these symptoms, you should not hesitate to contact service. Beko may make noise within normal limits, there are signs indicating a manufacturing defect or damage during delivery. If you notice these symptoms, you should not hesitate to contact the service.
Especially alarming are sounds that appear not immediately after switching on, but after some time of operation, or those that are accompanied by a lack of cold.
- 🔨 Metal knocking: the sound of metal hitting metal inside the compressor (broken valves or bushings).
- 📉 Lack of cold: the engine hums, but the temperature in the chambers does not drop (freon leakage or jamming).
- 🔥 Overheating: the side walls or rear grille become hot to the point where it is impossible to touch.
- 🌫️ Burning smell: a clear sign of an electrical malfunction or overheating of the wiring.
If a refrigerant leak is detected (oily spots under the refrigerator, lack of cold), operation of the device is prohibited. Further activation may completely burn out the compressor.
Is it possible to repair the compressor yourself?
Replacing a compressor or repairing its valve group is a complex technological process that requires evacuation of the system, soldering of pipes and refilling with an exact dose of freon. It is impossible to do this at home without professional equipment.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it normal for a new Beko refrigerator to buzz loudly in the first days?
Yes, this is normal. During the break-in period (the first 2-5 days), the compressor can work more intensely, and the lubricant in the system is still distributed among the components. If after a week of operation the noise does not subside and does not become uniform, it is worth checking the installation.
Why does the refrigerator make the sounds of gunshots or crackling sounds?
Most often this is a consequence of thermal expansion and contraction of the plastic parts of the inner box and evaporator when the temperature changes. Also, such sounds are characteristic of the operation of the No Frost defrost system.
What to do if the refrigerator is crooked and vibrates?
It is necessary to level the unit using adjustable support legs. Use a building level. The front legs are usually made slightly higher than the rear ones so that the door closes itself, but there should not be any skew to the sides.
Can an inverter compressor make noise?
Inverter motors are considered quieter, but they can emit a high-frequency whistle or howl with a sudden change in speed. This is a feature of their operation, and not a breakdown, if the sound is not accompanied by vibration of the case.
How long should the refrigerator stand after delivery in winter?
If the refrigerator was brought in from the cold, it needs to just stand for at least 4-6 hours in a warm room without being turned on. This is necessary to evaporate the condensation inside the electronics and restore the viscosity of the compressor oil.