You closed the refrigerator door, and after a few seconds there was a loud gurgling sound, as if liquid was overflowing inside? Don’t rush to panic - in 80% of cases this is related to the operation of the cooling system. But sometimes gurgling signals a malfunction that can lead to compressor failure or freon leakage. normal soundassociated with the operation of the cooling system. But sometimes gurgling signals a malfunction that can lead to compressor failure or freon leakage.
In this article we will analyze physical reasons gurgling sounds (from refrigerant movement to defrosting of the drainage system), we will explain how to distinguish normal gurgling from alarming symptoms, and we will provide a checklist for self-diagnosis. You will also find out in which cases you can get by with adjusting the door, and when urgent repairs are required.
Spoiler: if the gurgling is accompanied constant humming of the compressor without pauses or the refrigerator has stopped freezing, this is a reason to call a technician. In all other cases, let's figure it out together.
Why the refrigerator gurgles: the physics of the process
Gurgling sounds in the refrigerator are the result of the movement refrigerant (of freon) through the pipes of the cooling system. When you close the door, the pressure inside the chamber increases and the temperature begins to equalize. This starts a chain reaction:
- 🔹 Moisture condensation: warm air that gets inside when opening is cooled on the evaporator, forming water droplets that flow into the drainage system.
- 🔹 Freon movement: compressor pumps refrigerant from the condenser to the evaporator, where it expands and “boils,” creating a gurgling sound.
- 🔹 Ice defrosting: in models with
No Frostthe heater is periodically turned on to defrost the evaporator - this can also be accompanied by noise.
In modern refrigerators (Samsung RB37, LG GA-B489, Bosch KGN39**), gurgling often increases due to the use isobutane (R600a) instead of R134a freon. This refrigerant is more environmentally friendly, but creates more noise during circulation. If your refrigerator is new (up to 3 years), most likely this is its feature.
7 reasons for gurgling: from harmless to dangerous
Let's look at all the possible causes of gurgling sounds - from normal to those requiring intervention. For convenience, we divided them into two groups: "does not require repair" and "needs a master".
| Reason | Sound character | Additional symptoms | Is repair required? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freon circulation | Short-term gurgling (1-3 sec) | No, the refrigerator is working normally | ❌ No |
| Drain defrosting | Gurgling + sound of pouring water | Drops of water under the vegetable drawers | ❌ No |
| Door not closed tightly | Long gurgling (5+ sec) | Ice on the back wall, increased energy consumption | ⚠️ Possible |
| Clogged capillary tube | Loud gurgling + humming of the compressor | The refrigerator does not freeze well, the compressor does not turn off | ✅ Yes |
| Freon leakage | Gurgling + hissing | The temperature in the chambers rises, the compressor works without stops | ✅ Yes |
If gurgling appears suddenly and is accompanied by other symptoms (ice, poor cooling, constant operation of the compressor), most likely the problem is in system clogged or refrigerant leak. In this case, independent repair is impossible - evacuation and refilling of freon is required.
How to distinguish normal gurgling from a breakdown: 5 tests
Before calling a technician, conduct your own diagnostics. These tests will help determine whether gurgling is a sign of a malfunction.
Check for ice on the back wall|
Measure the temperature in the chambers (should be +4°C in the refrigerator and -18°C in the freezer)|
Listen to see if the compressor (should operate in cycles: 10-15 minutes running, 5-10 minutes resting)|
Inspect the door seal for cracks or deformations|
Check if water is flowing from under the refrigerator (a sign of clogged drainage)
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If all tests passed successfully, and the gurgling is not accompanied by other symptoms, most likely this is standard sound. This is especially true for refrigerators with a system No Frost —in them, gurgling can be heard more often due to automatic defrosting.
Pay attention to the time the sound appears:
- 🕒 Immediately after closing the door —the norm (freon movement).
- ⏳ After 5-10 minutes —the compressor may turn on to restore the temperature.
- 🔄 Constantly, without pauses —a sign of malfunction (clogging, leak).
What to do if gurgling interferes with sleep?
If the sounds are too loud, try:
1. Move the refrigerator away from the bedroom (vibration may increase on an uneven floor).
2. Check whether the tubes are touching the back of the furniture or the wall.
3. In models with inverter compressor (for example, Samsung RB37J52**), gurgling may be quieter in the "Vacation" or "Eco" mode.
When gurgling is a sign of failure: 3 alarms
There are three situations when gurgling sounds unambiguously indicate a malfunction require specialist intervention:
⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator gurgles and at the same time the compressor has been running without stopping for more than 1 hour, this can lead to its overheating and breakdown. Immediately unplug the refrigerator and call a technician.
- ❄️ Gurgling + ice on the back wall: sign clogged capillary tube or thermostat malfunction. The refrigerant cannot circulate normally, and the system “boils.”
- 🌡️ Gurgling + increase in temperature in the chambers: most likely freon leak. Without refilling, the refrigerator will lose its functionality.
- 💧 Gurgling + water under the refrigerator: clogged drainage system. The water does not go into the condensate container and overflows out.
In these cases, do not try to repair the refrigerator yourself - to eliminate a freon leak or clean the capillary tube, you will need special equipment (vacuum pump, leak detector, cylinder with refrigerant). Incorrect actions can lead to complete failure of the compressor.
Refrigerator models where gurgling is the norm: list of brands
Some manufacturers claim gurgling sounds as design feature. This is due to the use of more environmentally friendly refrigerants and automatic defrosting systems. Here are the models where gurgling occurs most often:
- 🔧 Samsung series RB and RT (with system
Twin Cooling Plus). - 🔧 LG with technology
DoorCooling+(models GA-B489, GB-B459). - 🔧 Bosch and Siemens with
VitaFresh(series KGN39, KIN86). - 🔧 Indesit and Ariston with system
Total No Frost.
In the instructions for these models It is often mentioned that "periodic sounds of liquid pouring are normal."For example, the manual for Samsung RB37J5240SA states:
"When the refrigerator is operating, sounds of refrigerant circulation may occur, similar to gurgling or pouring. liquid. This is not a malfunction."
If your refrigerator belongs to one of these series, most likely there is nothing to worry about. But if the sounds become louder or additional symptoms appear, it is worth conducting a diagnosis.
What to do if gurgling is disturbing: 4 ways to reduce the noise
Even if gurgling is a normal sound, it can be annoying, especially at night. Here are a few ways to reduce its intensity:
- Level the refrigerator: if it is not level, the vibration from the compressor increases the gurgling sounds. Use a level and adjust the legs.
- Check the ventilation: the back wall should be 5-10 cm away from the wall. pressed closely, the sounds resonate.
- Set the "Vacation" mode: in most models (LG, Samsung, Bosch) this mode reduces the intensity of the compressor.
- Replace the seal: if the door does not close tightly, the compressor runs longer, and the gurgling intensifies.
If none of the methods help, and the sounds are too loud, contact the service center. In some cases, the technician can refill the oil in the compressor or adjust the pressure in the system - this will reduce. noise.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about gurgling sounds in the refrigerator
Why does the refrigerator gurgle only at night?
At night the house is quieter, and the sounds become more noticeable. There is also a possible reason. c high humidity (for example, if the kitchen is poorly ventilated) - this increases condensation and gurgling in the drainage system. Check the ventilation and, if necessary, use a moisture absorber.
Gurgling appeared after defrosting - is this normal?
Yes, after defrosting, moisture may remain in the system, which, when the compressor is turned on for the first time, will begin to actively evaporate, creating gurgling sounds. This should go away within 1-2 days. If the sounds persist longer, check if there is water left in the drainage hole.
Could gurgling be associated with voltage drops?
Yes, if the network voltage is unstable, the compressor may turn on more often, and the refrigerant may circulate more intensively, which increases the gurgling. Install voltage stabilizer (for example, Resanta ASN-1000 or Calm IS350) - this will extend the life of the refrigerator and reduce noise.
Do I need to call a technician if the refrigerator gurgles, but works fine?
No, if there is no gurgling except for gurgling other symptoms (ice, poor cooling, water under the refrigerator), a technician is not needed. This is a normal sound, especially in modern models with No Frost and environmentally friendly refrigerants.
Why does the new refrigerator gurgle louder than the old one?
Modern refrigerators use refrigerant R600a (isobutane), which is more environmentally friendly, but creates more noise during circulation. Also, new models often use automatic defrosting systems that periodically turn on the heater - this can also be accompanied by gurgling.