Why does the refrigerator hum and click: 12 reasons and solutions

Did your refrigerator suddenly start making suspicious sounds? Humming, clicking, or intermittent crackling noises can either indicate a problem or be part of normal operation. In 80% of cases, such noises do not require intervention, but in some situations it is dangerous to ignore them - this can lead to compressor failure or freon leakage. In this article, we will analyze all the possible reasons why the refrigerator buzzing, clicking or crackling, and also give clear instructions on what to do in each case.

Modern models (Samsung No Frost, LG Inverter, Indesit etc.) are equipped with complex cooling systems that, by default, do not work silently. However, there are clear signs by which one can distinguish normal sounds from malfunction signals. For example, if the refrigerator clicks when turned on, this is usually a relay operation, and if it hums continuously for more than 30 minutes, the compressor may overheat. We have collected up-to-date information for 2026, including data on new models with inverter motors and systems Smart Diagnosis.

1. Normal refrigerator sounds: when there is no need to worry

Not every noise is a reason to panic. Manufacturers (Bosch, Atlant, Beko) indicate in the instructions that refrigerators can make the following sounds in normal mode:

• 🔊 Clicks when turning on/off the — the compressor start-up relay is activated. In models with inverter motor (for example, LG GA-B489YVQZ) there are fewer clicks, but they are still present.
• 🌀 Low-frequency hum - the operation of the compressor (especially noticeable at night). In older models (Stinol 101, ZIL), the hum is louder, in new ones it is quieter due to improved noise insulation.
• 💧 Gurgling or pouring of liquid —circulation freon through pipes. In refrigerators with a system No Frost (Samsung RB37A52N0SA), this sound can be constant.
• ❄️ Crackling - compression/expansion of plastic parts when the temperature changes (most often in the freezer).

How to distinguish normal noise from a malfunction? Use a simple test:

The sound appears periodically, and not constantly|The volume does not exceed 40-45 dB (like a quiet conversation)|The refrigerator cools food in normal mode|No vibration or rattling of the case-->

If all the points are completed, there is nothing to worry about. But if the sounds have become louder than usual or new tones have appeared (for example, metallic grinding), this is a reason for diagnosis.

2. Compressor: why it hums and how to check its operation

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and its noise is the most noticeable. Normally, it should work in cycles: 10-20 minutes on, 5-10 minutes off. If the hum becomes constant or too loud, the following problems are possible:

• ⚡ System overload —the refrigerator is wearing out due to high room temperatures (above +30°C) or overcrowded chambers.
• 🔋 Motor wear —in older models (Minsk 126, Biryusa 18) after 10-15 years of operation, the compressor begins to hum louder.
• 🛠️ Malfunction of the start-up relay — if clicks are accompanied failure to turn on by the motor, the relay may be broken.
• ❄️ Freezing the condenser —if there is a malfunction of the defrosting system (No Frost) the compressor works without stopping.

How to check the compressor yourself:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on again. If the hum became quieter, the problem was overheating.
2. Touch the compressor housing (usually it is located in the lower part at the back). Normally, it should be warm, but not hot.
3. Count the operating cycles: if the motor turns on more than once every 5 minutes, there may be a freon leak or a thermostat malfunction.

3. Clicks: relay, thermostat or malfunction?

Clicks in the refrigerator can come from three nodes:

The most common problem is thermostat malfunctionIf the refrigerator clicks but does not turn on, run the test:

1. Set the thermostat to maximum cooling.
2. Listen to see if the compressor starts. If not, the thermostat does not give a signal.
3. Turn off the refrigerator, remove the thermostat cover and check the contacts with a multimeter (in position "continuity").

How to test a thermostat with a multimeter?

1. Set the multimeter to resistance testing mode (200 Ohms).

2. Attach the probes to the thermostat contacts.

3. Turn the temperature regulator: when changing. position, the resistance should change from “0” (closed) to “1” (open).

4. If the resistance does not change, the thermostat is faulty.

4. Crackling and gurgling: problems with freon or fan

If the refrigerator makes sounds similar to on crackling of ice or gurgling of water, the reasons may be the following:

• ❄️ Freezing of the evaporator — in models with No Frost (Samsung RL38T6000SA, LG GB-B459SLQZ) if the system malfunctions After thawing, the ice accumulates and cracks as it expands.
• 🔄 Freon circulation is a normal process, but if the gurgling becomes louder, it is possible leakage refrigerant.
• 🌀 Fan malfunction —if the cracking sound is accompanied by vibration, the fan blades may be touching the ice or the housing.

How to diagnose:

1. Defrost the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. If the cracking noise disappears, the problem was freezing.
2. Shine a flashlight into the freezer: if a thick layer of ice is visible on the back wall, the defrost heater is faulty or timer.
3. Check the temperature in the chambers: if the refrigerator does not freeze well, but the compressor runs non-stop, there may be a freon leak.

In refrigerators with a No Frost system, manual defrosting is required only if the automatic system malfunctions. If, after defrosting, the cracking returns after 1-2 weeks, repairs are necessary.

5. External causes of noise: vibration, installation, ventilation

Sometimes the hum and clicks are caused not by a breakdown, but by incorrect installation the refrigerator. Check the following points: Incorrect installation - if the refrigerator is tilted, the compressor vibrates more. Use a level to check.

• 📏 Uneven floor — if the refrigerator is tilted, the compressor vibrates more. Use a level to check.
• 🔌 Tight fit to the wall —the rear grille (condenser) should be spaced from the wall by 5-10 cm for normal ventilation.
• 🧲 Touching tubes or cables —if noise appears when opening the door, check whether the wires are touching the fan.
• 📦 Overloading the shelves —heavy foods (for example, jars of pickles) can cause rattling.

How to eliminate vibration:

1. Adjust the legs of the refrigerator so that it stands level.
2. Make sure there are no heat sources nearby (battery, stove, direct sunlight).
3. Check whether the power cord is touching the back wall.

6. When to call a technician: 5 critical symptoms

Some sounds are a direct signal of a malfunction that cannot be fixed on your own. Contact the service center if:

• ⚠️ The compressor hums, but does not start — the motor winding or start relay may be damaged.
• ⚠️ The refrigerator clicks constantly (every 1-2 seconds) —the control board or thermostat is faulty.
• ⚠️ A metal grinding sound has appeared — wear of the compressor or fan bearings.
• ⚠️ The refrigerator does not freeze, but the compressor is running —freon leak or clogged capillary tube.
• ⚠️ The display lights up error (for example, E1, FF on Samsung or ER DH on LG) - electronics diagnostics is required.

Repair cost in 2026:

7. Prevention: how to extend the life of the refrigerator

To avoid noise-related breakdowns, follow simple rules:

• ❄️ Defrost the refrigerator every No Frost every 6 monthseven if the ice is not visible.
• 🧹 Clean the rear grille (condenser) from dust every 3 months —this will prevent the compressor from overheating.
• 📱 Do not place the refrigerator next to sources of vibration (washing car, audio system).
• 🔌 Use voltage stabilizerif your network has frequent surges.
• 🛒 Do not overload the cameras - leave a gap of 2-3 cm between products for circulation air.

For models with an inverter compressor (Samsung Digital Inverter, LG Smart Inverter) it is especially important:

1. Avoid frequent disconnections from the network - this reduces the life of the motor.
2. Do not install the refrigerator in rooms with temperatures below +10°C or above +32°C.
3. Update the firmware regularly (if there is a function Smart Diagnosis).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about refrigerator noise

❓ Why is the new refrigerator humming louder than the old one?

Modern models (No Frost, inverter) have more powerful fans and compressors, which may seem louder. However, their noise is usually smoother and quieter in the long term. If the hum does not subside after 1-2 weeks, check the installation (vibration, tight fit). wall).

❓ The refrigerator clicks and does not turn on - what to do?

Most likely it is faulty start protection relay or thermostatTry:

1. Turn off the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on again.
2. Check whether the light inside is on - if not, the problem is in the power supply.
3. If after turning on you hear clicks, but the engine does not start - call a technician to replace the relay.

❓ Is it possible to refill freon yourself?

No. Refilling freon requires special equipment and certified refrigerant. Incorrect charging can lead to compressor failure or gas leak. Contact the service center.

❓ Why does the refrigerator hum at night, but is quiet during the day?

At night the apartment is quieter, so the noise the compressor can be heard more clearly. There are also possible reasons:

• The temperature in the room is lower at night - the compressor works longer to maintain the mode.
• The defrosting mode may turn on in the refrigerator at night (clicking, gurgling). No Frost At night, the defrosting mode may turn on (clicking, gurgling).
• If the hum becomes it is stronger at night -check whether the refrigerator is touching the furniture or walls when vibrating.

❓ How much does it cost to diagnose a refrigerator at home?

In 2026, the average cost of a technician visiting — 1 000–2 500 ₽ (depending on the region). In some services, diagnostics are free if you agree to repairs. Check prices by phone - they may differ for different models (Samsung, Indesit, Atlant).

If your refrigerator makes uncharacteristic sounds, do not rush to panic - in most cases the problem is solved by simple adjustment or cleaning. However, ignore constant hum, metallic grinding or frequent clicks no: this can lead to expensive repairs. Use our recommendations for diagnostics, and if in doubt, contact professionals.