Why the refrigerator crunches: is it normal or a signal of a breakdown?

You are standing in the kitchen, and suddenly a distinct sound is heard from the refrigerator crunch either the ice is breaking, or the plastic is cracking. The sound is unusual, and the question immediately arises: is this normal or is it time to call a specialist? In 90% of cases, a crunch does not mean a serious breakdown, but you shouldn’t ignore it either. Let's figure out what processes in the refrigerator can be accompanied by such sounds, and when they become a cause for concern.

Modern refrigerators are complex devices with compressors, fans, systems No Frost and electronic boards. Each element can make its own sounds, and crunching is no exception. For example, in models Samsung RB37A52 or LG GA-B489YDQL crunching is often associated with the operation of the automatic defrosting system, and in older ones Atlanta with wear of the seals. But how to distinguish a “harmless” crunch from an alarming signal? More on this below.

1. Crunching when turning the compressor on or off

The most common cause of crunching is thermal expansion of materials. When the compressor starts, the temperature inside the refrigerator begins to change, and the plastic parts (case, shelves, seals) become slightly deformed. This is accompanied by clicks or crunching, especially in new models where the plastic has not yet “got in.”

This sound is usually:

• 🔹 Heard in the first 10-30 minutes after turning on the refrigerator.
• 🔹 Repeats with intervals of several hours (according to the compressor operating cycle).
• 🔹 More distinct in refrigerators with inverter compressors (for example, Bosch KGE39XW2AR), where temperature changes are smoother, but more frequent.

⚠️ Attention: If the crunching sound is accompanied casing vibration or the compressor runs without stopping, this may indicate an overload of the system. In this case, check whether the freezer compartment is overloaded with food and whether the fan is blocked (in models with No Frost).

2. Ice in the No Frost system: why does it crunch?

Refrigerators with the system No Frost (for example, Indesit DF 5200 W or Electrolux ERN 1200 FOW) are defrosted automatically using a heating element - Evaporator heating element. During this process, the ice melts, and its remains may produce crunching, cracking or even a slight crackling sound. This is normal if:

• ❄️ The sound appears 6–12 hours after closing the door (defrosting cycle).
• ❄️ The crunch lasts no longer than 10–15 minutes.
• ❄️ No in the freezer visible ice (if it does form, the system is not working correctly).

🔍 How to check? Open the freezer and inspect the back wall. If there is an accumulation of ice more than 5 mm thick, there may be a malfunction of the defrosting sensor or heating element. In this case, a crunching sound will be accompanied by:

• 🚨 Increased operating time. compressor.
• 🚨 The appearance of water under the vegetable boxes.
• 🚨 Severe freezing of food.

What to do if there is too much ice in No Frost?

If the ice in the No Frost system does not melt completely, try manually starting the cycle defrosting: turn off the refrigerator for 12-24 hours, then turn it on again. If the problem persists, you need to replace the defrosting sensor or heating element.

3. Crunching sound from the fan: when it hits the ice

In refrigerators with forced air circulation (almost all models No Frost) a fan that distributes cold. If ice forms on its blades or they touch the crust of ice on the evaporator, a characteristic crunching or grinding sound appears. Signs of a problem: crunching or grinding.

📌 Signs of a problem:

• 🌀 A crunching sound is heard only when the fan is running (usually after opening doors).
• 🌀 The sound becomes louder if you do not defrost the refrigerator for a long time.
• 🌀 In the freezer compartment you can see a “coat” of ice on the back wall.

⚠️ Attention: If the fan is blocked by ice, the compressor will work in increased mode, which will lead to increased energy consumption and the risk of overheating. In models Samsung and LG this may cause an error on the display (for example, code 22E or FF).

4. Problems with the door seal: cracking sound when opening

The rubber seal on the refrigerator door loses its elasticity over time, especially if it is rarely cleaned or lubricated when the door is opened/closed. crunch or creaking, similar to the sound of Velcro.

🔎 How to determine?

• 🚪 The crunch is heard only when manipulating the door.
• 🚪 The seal has become hard or shabby in appearance.
• 🚪 A gap is visible between the door and the body (check with a sheet of paper - if it pulls out easily, the seal is not airtight).

🛠️ Solution: Clean the seal with soapy water, lubricate with silicone grease (for example, WD-40 Specialist) and check the fit. If the rubber is cracked, replacement is required. In refrigerators Beko and Gorenje the seals are often attached to latches, and you can change them yourself.

5. Crunching from deformation of plastic parts

Plastic shelves, drawers and guides in the refrigerator may crunch when:

• 🧊 Sudden changes in temperature (for example, if you put a hot pan in the chamber).
• 🧊 Overload (vegetable boxes filled with cans).
• 🧊 Wear of fasteners (in old models Atlant or Stinol).

Critical point: if the crunch is accompanied by cracks in the plastic, this can lead to breakage of shelves or drawers. In refrigerators Liebherr i Siemens the plastic is of high quality, but even it cannot withstand. systematic overloads.

📊 Comparison of loads on shelves:

6. Failures in which a crunch is an alarm signal

In rare cases, a crunch can indicate serious malfunctions:

1. Failure of the compressor: if a crunch is accompanied knock and the compressor does not start, the piston may be stuck or the valves are broken. In this case, the refrigerator will stop working. freeze.
2. Refrigerant leak: If the tubes are damaged, freon comes out with a hiss, and the metal of the pipeline may crunch from deformation. A sign - the refrigerator does not cool well, and oily stains are visible on the back wall.
3. Malfunction of the start relay: if you hear it when you turn it on click with crunchand then the compressor is silent, the relay could be “stuck.”

⚠️ Attention: If the crunch is accompanied by smell of burning or smoke —immediately unplug the refrigerator! This may be a short circuit in the winding of the compressor or electronics.

7. How to reduce crunching: prevention and care

To reduce the likelihood of crunching:

• ⚙️ Once every 6 months, defrost the refrigerator (even if it has No Frost).
• ⚙️ Do not put hot foods in the chamber - let them cool to room temperature.
• ⚙️ Clean the seal regularly and check its tightness.
• ⚙️ Do not overload shelves and drawers (see table above).
• ⚙️ Install the refrigerator on a flat surface - vibration from an uneven floor increases crunching.

🔧 If a crunching sound has already appeared:

1. Check if something is touching the fan (in models with No Frost).
2. Inspect the seal for cracks.
3. Turn off the refrigerator for 12 hours to completely defrost.
4. If the sound does not disappear, record it on your phone and show it to the technician (this will help in diagnostics).

💡 Tip: In refrigerators with electronic control (for example, Samsung Family Hub), you can turn on the "Vacation" mode, which will reduce the load on the compressor and reduce the noise.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about crunching in the refrigerator

❓ Is crunching in a new refrigerator normal?

Yes, in the first 1-2 weeks the plastic parts “grind in”, and the crunching may be heard more often. If after a month it has not disappeared, check the seal and fan.

❓ Can crunching be dangerous for food?

The crunching itself does not affect the quality of storage. The danger arises if it is associated with a malfunction (for example, a freon leak), due to which the temperature in the chamber rises.

❓ Why does the crunching intensify at night?

At night, the apartment is quieter, and the sounds become more noticeable. Also, the compressor may turn on more often due to changes in the temperature in the kitchen (for example, if the lights are turned off or the air conditioner is running).

❓ Do you need to call a technician if the refrigerator crunches, but works normally?

If the crunch is not accompanied by other symptoms (ice, noise, bad conditions). cooling), a technician is not needed. It is enough to monitor the condition of the refrigerator and carry out preventive maintenance.

❓ Can a crunch appear after moving?

Yes, if the refrigerator was transported in a lying position or was not allowed to “settle” before turning on (it takes 4-6 hours. In this case, the refrigerant could be mixed with oil, and the compressor operates at a higher temperature). load.

🔹 Result: Crunching in the refrigerator in 80% of cases is a normal phenomenon associated with thermal expansion of materials or the operation of the system. However, if the sound is accompanied by other problems (ice, noise, poor cooling), it is worth conducting a diagnosis or calling a specialist. Regular maintenance and proper operation will reduce the risk of breakdowns to a minimum. No Frost. However, if the sound is accompanied by other problems (ice, noise, poor cooling), it is worth conducting diagnostics or calling a specialist. Regular maintenance and proper operation will reduce the risk of breakdowns to a minimum.