A sudden extraneous sound in kitchen appliances always causes concern for the owner. Especially if we are talking about refrigeration equipment, the uninterrupted operation of which determines the safety of products. Characteristic clicks, crackling or buzzing can be either an absolutely normal phenomenon or a signal of a serious breakdown that requires the intervention of a technician.
In this article we will analyze in detail the physics of the processes occurring inside the unit and will help you distinguish the normal operation of the mechanisms from the harbingers of expensive repairs. Understanding why the refrigerator clickswill save you nerves and money.
Modern models, whether Indesit, Atlant or premium Liebherruse similar principles of thermoregulation. However, design features may make adjustments to the sound background. Let's figure out when sound is the norm, and when it's time to sound the alarm.
Physiological norm: operation of the thermostat and relay
The most common and harmless cause of clicks is the operation of thermal relay or the starting device. When the temperature in the chamber reaches the set value, the electrical circuit opens and the compressor turns off. This process is often accompanied by a loud, loud click.
A similar sound is heard when the engine starts. The starter sends an impulse to the winding and the contacts close. If your Bosch refrigerator or Samsung makes such sounds every 20-40 minutes, there is no reason to worry. This is the normal mode of cyclic operation.
However, you should be wary if the clicks become too frequent or, conversely, after the click the motor hums, but does not start. In the latter case, it may be necessary to replace the start relay, since the contacts could be burnt.
⚠️ Attention: If, after a characteristic click, the compressor tries to start, buzzes for 2-3 seconds and clicks again, turning off, immediately disconnect the device from the network. Operation in this mode can lead to burnout of the motor winding.
It is important to consider that in new models with inverter compressors there may be fewer clicks, since they operate smoothly, without complete stops. But classic linear motors will always make sounds when starting and stopping.
Thermal expansion: why does plastic and metal crack?
Another reason why the refrigerator is cracking makes sounds similar to the cracking of wood or the bursting of bubbles is the thermal expansion of materials. The inner chamber, evaporator and outer walls are made of different materials: plastic, aluminum, steel.
When the temperature changes, these materials expand or contract at different rates. This phenomenon is observed especially often:
- 🌡️ Immediately after the first defrosting or turning on a new device.
- 🧊 When placing a large amount of warm food, causing a sharp temperature change.
- 🌀 During the automatic defrosting cycle (No Frost), when the heating element changes temperature sharply evaporator.
The sounds may be frightening, like gunshots or crackling, but they are absolutely safe. Usually, such a “talkative” LG refrigerator or Haier after a few days of operation becomes silent, as the materials adapt to operating conditions.
If the cracking does not stop after a week of active use, it is worth checking whether any internal shelf is touching the wall cameras. Vibration can increase the sound of plastic rubbing against metal.
The influence of installation level on noise
If the refrigerator is not level, the skew of the case can amplify the sounds of thermal expansion. Adjusting the legs often removes extra sounds that the user mistakes for a breakdown.
Problems with the compressor: when humming becomes dangerous
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator. In good condition, it emits a uniform low-frequency hum. However, if you hear metal clanging, knocking or rhythmic tapping, this may indicate wear of the internal mechanisms.
Often the problem lies in the shock absorbers on which the motor-compressor is suspended. Over time, the rubber gaskets dry out and the metal housing begins to vibrate against the frame or tubes. This creates an unpleasant rattling sound.
A more serious situation is wear of the piston group or bearings. In this case, the sound becomes louder every month. If your Ariston refrigerator or Stinol started to work louder than usual, check the vibration of the tubes.
No Frost system: fan and timer
In refrigerators with the system No Frost the source of noise is often the fan circulating cold air. If ice builds up on the blades or debris gets into the bearing, a hum appears that turns into a crackling sound.
Also characteristic clicks are produced defrost timer or by the electronic control module that switches operating modes. This usually happens once every 8–12 hours. The sound can be quite loud, reminiscent of the crackling sound of an electrical discharge.
If the fan touches ice, the sound will be rhythmic and frequent. In this case, you need to defrost the refrigerator (for 10–12 hours with the doors open) so that the ice melts and frees the blades.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to pick the ice yourself with a knife or sharp objects. You can damage the evaporator, and then the repair will cost the cost of a new refrigerator.
☑️ Diagnosis of refrigerator noise
Comparative table of sounds and their causes
To make it easier for you to navigate in nature sounds, we have compiled a table to help classify noise. This will help you more accurately describe the problem to the technician or understand whether you can solve the issue yourself.
| Sound type | Probable cause | Degree of danger | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single loud click | Thermal relay operation (start/stop) | Safe | Do nothing |
| Crack like wood | Thermal expansion plastic | Safe | Wait for adaptation |
| Buzzing with vibration | Incorrect installation, touching the tubes | Average | Align, move the tubes |
| Metal knocking/clanging | Compressor wear | High | Call a technician |
| Whistling or howling | Fan malfunction | Medium | Unfreeze or replace |
As can be seen from the table, most sounds do not pose a critical threat. However, ignoring metallic knocks can lead to a complete replacement of the unit.
External factors: installation and environment
Sometimes the refrigerator clicks not due to internal breakdowns, but due to improper installation. If the appliance is too close to a wall or furniture, the vibration of the case is transmitted to neighboring objects, creating a resonating sound.
It is also worth checking the distance to the nearest cabinets. The minimum gap should be 5–10 cm. If Beko refrigerator or Candy is installed in a niche without ventilation, overheating can cause additional noise from the fans and compressor.
Check whether they are standing on the top cover refrigerator heavy objects or cans. The vibration of the motor causes them to rattle, and the unit itself becomes noisy. Remove all foreign objects from the case.
When urgent repairs are necessary
There are a number of symptoms in which the operation of the equipment should be discontinued. If the clicks are accompanied by a lack of cold, freezing of the rear wall or the appearance of a burning smell, you should not hesitate.
Frequent switching on and off (clocking) of the compressor with loud clicks indicates problems with the start relay or a freon leak. In this case, the motor wears out, trying to gain temperature.
If you notice that the rear grille (condenser) remains cold, but it’s warm inside, and you hear clicks, it’s most likely that the compressor is jammed. Professional diagnostics are required. water hammer or compressor jamming. Professional diagnosis required.
⚠️ Attention: Technical characteristics and design of refrigerators may vary depending on the model and year of manufacture. Before self-repair, check the manufacturer's instructions or contact an authorized service center.
Why does the refrigerator click immediately after defrosting?
After defrosting, moisture may remain in the system, which makes sounds when freezing or evaporating. Also, a sharp temperature change causes strong thermal expansion of the plastic, which leads to cracking. This usually goes away within a day.
Is it normal for a new refrigerator to click loudly?
Yes, new units may be more “noisy” in the first days of operation. Grinding of parts, shrinkage of materials and adaptation of the thermostat takes place. If after 3-5 days the volume does not decrease, you should call a technician.
Can a magnetic door click?
Yes, if the seal sticks to the body or shelves, a “clicking” or clicking sound may be heard when opening. This is normal, but you can lubricate the seal with a special silicone grease for elasticity.
What to do if the clicks become more frequent?
An increase in the frequency of clicks (clocking) often indicates a refrigerant leak or a thermostat malfunction. The compressor cannot reach the required temperature and turns off prematurely. It is necessary to diagnose the pressure in the system.