Owners Technicians Hotpoint Ariston often encounter a situation where their refrigerator makes extraneous sounds, reminiscent of crackling or clicking noises. In most cases, this is not a sign of a critical failure, but is explained by physical processes occurring inside the camera. However, such symptoms cannot be ignored, since a change in the nature of the sound may indicate serious malfunctions of the defrost system or compressor. Modern models are equipped with complex refrigerant circulation systems that are sensitive to temperature changes and the quality of the voltage in the network. If you hear that compressor or defrost systems.
Modern models are equipped with complex refrigerant circulation systems that are sensitive to temperature changes and the quality of the network voltage. If you hear that Hotpoint Ariston refrigerator is cracking, you need to analyze the frequency and localization of the sound. This will help distinguish the normal operation of the equipment from an emergency situation requiring the intervention of a technician.
In this article we will analyze in detail the mechanical and electrical causes of noise. You will learn how to independently carry out primary diagnostics and in what cases it is required replacement of parts. A correct understanding of the nature of sound will allow you to avoid unnecessary expenses on repairs or, conversely, prevent equipment failure in time.
Natural physical processes and expansion noise
The most common cause of crackling is the thermal expansion of materials. The inner walls of the refrigerator compartment and the evaporator are made of plastic and metal, which contract when cooled and expand when heated. This process is accompanied by a characteristic sound reminiscent of crackling or clicking.
Such sounds are especially often heard in models with a system No Frost or Low Frost, where defrost cycles are programmed by a timer. When the heating element is turned on to defrost the evaporator, the sudden temperature change causes the plastic elements of the air ducts to deform. This is absolutely normal and does not require repair.
⚠️ Attention: If the crackling noise is heard only when the motor is turned on or off, as well as during the defrost cycle, most likely everything is in order with your equipment.
The intensity of such sounds may vary depending on the ambient temperature in the room. In the summer, when the room is hot, the refrigerator works harder and expansion cycles occur more often. In winter, at low temperatures in the apartment, the material cools more slowly, and the cracking may be less pronounced or absent altogether.
Malfunctions of the defrost system and freezing of ice
A more serious cause of crackling noise in refrigerators Hotpoint Ariston is a malfunction of the defrost system. If the defrost sensor or heating element fails, an ice coat begins to form on the evaporator. During the subsequent defrosting cycle or when large pieces of ice fall on the fan blades, a loud cracking and grinding noise is heard.
In models with forced air circulation (No Frost), the fan drives cold air through the channels. If these channels are clogged with ice due to a malfunction, the airflow creates turbulence and vibration that is transmitted to the plastic housings. Over time, this can lead to the destruction of the plastic fasteners.
To test this hypothesis, it is necessary to completely defrost the refrigerator. Leave the device turned off for 24 hours with the doors open. If after switching on the crackling noise disappears, then the problem lies in ice freezing. However, this is a temporary solution, since the cause of the breakdown (sensor or heating element) has not gone away.
☑️ Diagnostics of the defrost system
Often owners are faced with the fact that after defrosting the equipment works quietly for several days, and then the noise returns. This is a sure sign that the defrost cycle is not completing completely and ice is building up again. In such cases, it is necessary to replacement of the defrost sensor or a heating element.
Problems with the compressor and start relay
If a crackling noise is heard from the side of the motor compartment located at the rear bottom of the refrigerator, the problem may be in compressor or starting relay. Older model compressors may make a metallic clunking noise when starting up if the internal valves or bearings are worn out.
The start relay is a small black block attached to the compressor. Inside it there is a contact group, which, when closed, can make a loud click. If the contacts are burnt or oxidized, the sound becomes similar to a crackling or buzzing sound, turning into clicks.
| Symptom | Possible cause | Character of the sound |
|---|---|---|
| Loud clicking at startup | Malfunction of the starting relay | Single or double click |
| Metallic ringing | Wear of the compressor | Continuous clanging during operation |
| Crackling and humming | Vibration of tubes | Rhythmic knocking |
| Series of clicks | Attempt to start the engine | Frequent crackling every 2-3 minutes |
It is important to note that if the compressor tries to start, makes a cracking sound and immediately stalls, you cannot repeat attempts to start it. This may cause the motor winding to burn out. In such a situation, professional diagnostics of the electrical part is necessary.
How to check the start relay yourself?
Disconnect the refrigerator from the network. Remove the rear engine compartment cover. Carefully disconnect the start relay from the compressor (it is usually simply removed). Shake the relay near your ear: if something dangles inside, it means the core is broken and the relay must be replaced. Also inspect the contacts for carbon deposits.
Vibration and touching internal elements
Sometimes a crackling sound is caused by banal vibration. During operation, the compressor creates vibrations that are transmitted to the housing and internal tubes. If the copper refrigerant pipes are located too close to each other or touch the housing, rattling and metal-on-metal friction occurs.
Loose shelves or utensils inside the chamber can also be a source of sound. When vibrating, plastic containers can move and hit the walls. Check if the refrigerator is level on the floor. The legs should be tightly screwed, and the unit itself should not wobble.
To eliminate the noise of the tubes, sometimes it is enough to carefully (with the device turned off!) move them apart with your fingers so that they do not touch. However, this must be done with extreme caution so as not to damage the thin walls of the tubes and not cause leakage of freon.
⚠️ Attention: When working with copper tubes, be extremely careful. Damage to the circuit will lead to a refrigerant leak, which will require expensive repairs with sealing and refilling.
Pay attention to the back wall inside the refrigerator compartment. If it is deformed or separated from the insulation, the air flow may create a whistling or crackling sound. In some models Hotpoint Ariston the plastic of the back panel becomes brittle over time and cracks from the cold.
The influence of power supply quality on the operation of equipment
Unstable voltage in the network is the hidden enemy of household appliances. Voltage surges can cause unstable operation of the compressor starting equipment. At low voltage, the motor hums and crackles, trying to start, but does not pick up speed.
To protect expensive equipment, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer or surge protector with surge protection. This is especially true for owners of private houses or apartments in old housing stock, where the wiring may not withstand the load.
If you notice that the crackling noise intensifies in the evening, when neighbors turn on powerful electrical appliances (welding, heaters), the problem lies in the external network. In this case, repairing the refrigerator will not help, you need to solve the issue with the power supply.
When you need to call a specialist
There are a number of signs that make independent repair impossible or dangerous. If the crackling sound is accompanied by a burning smell, smoke or strong heating of the engine compartment, immediately unplug the device. These are signs of a short circuit or overheating of the insulation.
Also, the help of a specialist is needed if after defrosting the problem returns after 1-2 days. This indicates a deep malfunction of the electronics or mechanics of the cooling system. The technician will carry out diagnostics using professional equipment.
A critical sign is the appearance of oily spots under the refrigerator in combination with a crackling sound - this indicates an oil leak from the compressor, which requires its replacement. Ignoring this symptom will lead to complete failure of the unit.
Prevention of noisy operation of the refrigerator
What your Hotpoint Ariston served for a long time and quietly, follow simple operating rules. Clean the drainage hole regularly to prevent water from stagnating and freezing in unintended places. Check the door seals: if they do not fit tightly, warm air enters the chamber, causing the compressor to work without rest.
Do not place the refrigerator close to the wall. A gap of 5-10 cm is necessary for normal air circulation around the condenser. Overheating of the rear grille can also cause additional noise due to thermal expansion.
Make sure that the chambers are evenly loaded. Heavy objects on upper shelves can create additional vibration. Distribute the weight of the food evenly so as not to warp the structure.
Why does the refrigerator only crack at night?
At night, the overall noise level in the apartment decreases, and you begin to notice sounds that were invisible during the day. In addition, the mains voltage often drops at night, which can cause the compressor to hum. It is also quieter at night, and the thermal expansion of materials is more audible.
Is it dangerous if a new refrigerator is cracking?
New equipment can make sounds during the “break-in” period. The plastic parts are ground in and the lubricant is distributed in the compressor. If the crackling sound is not accompanied by other symptoms (heating, lack of cold), this is normal. Let the equipment work for a couple of days.
Is it possible to lubricate the compressor if it is cracking?
No, modern refrigerator compressors Hotpoint Ariston are sealed and maintenance-free. Trying to lubricate them will result in damage. If you hear a metallic knock from the motor, the compressor needs to be changed.
How often do you need to defrost a No Frost refrigerator?
The No Frost system does not require manual defrosting to remove ice. However, once every 6-12 months it is recommended to carry out a preventive defrosting for 24 hours for hygiene and checking the drainage system. This will help avoid blockages and unnecessary noise.