A sudden extraneous sound from household appliances always causes alarm, especially if we are talking about a refrigerator that works around the clock. Many owners notice that the unit has begun to make characteristic clicks, crackling or buzzing noises that were not there before. In most cases, these sounds are not a sign of a fatal breakdown, but are explained by physical processes occurring inside the system.
However, you should not ignore changes in the acoustic background, since compressor noise or bursting of plastic can signal both a banal uneven installation and serious problems with the refrigerant. Understanding the nature of these sounds will help you avoid unnecessary expenses on calling a technician or, conversely, prevent damage to products due to untimely repairs.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the possible reasons why The refrigerator is crackingand determine in which cases you can handle it yourself and when intervention is required professionals.
Natural sounds during operation of refrigeration equipment
Modern refrigerators, especially models with the system No Frost, are complex devices in which thermodynamic processes constantly occur. One of the most common sources of cracking is thermal expansion of materials. With a sharp change in temperature, the plastic of the inner chamber, shelves and metal elements of the evaporator compress and expand, producing characteristic clicking sounds.
This process is especially noticeable immediately after turning on the refrigerator or after turning off the defrost mode, when the temperature difference is maximum. Plastic popping is an absolutely normal physical phenomenon that does not require any intervention. If the sound is irregular and resembles the crackling of a fire or the snapping of fingers, there is most likely nothing to worry about.
⚠️ Attention: If the cracking sound is accompanied by a burning smell, visible sparking or smoke, immediately unplug the device from the electrical outlet. This may indicate faulty wiring or overheating of electrical components.
It is also worth considering that new models of equipment may make different noise than older ones. The use of new types of plastic and refrigerants can change the acoustic picture. The cracking of plastic in the first weeks of operation of a new refrigerator is the process of “grinding in” of materials to temperature conditions.
Problems with installation and vibration of the case
Often the cause of annoying crackling and buzzing is not internal failure, but incorrect installation of the unit. If the refrigerator is not level, vibration from the running motor is transmitted to the body and resonates, creating additional noise. Objects standing next to or on the top panel may also vibrate.
To eliminate this problem, you need to check the horizontal installation. Use a building level or just rock the refrigerator. If it wobbles, the front legs need to be adjusted. Rotate them clockwise or counterclockwise until the body is stable.
☑️ Installation diagnostics
Pay attention to the distance to walls and furniture. For normal air circulation and reduced vibration, a gap of at least 5-10 centimeters is required. If the refrigerator touches the wall of a cabinet or other equipment, vibration will be transmitted to them, increasing the overall noise.
Also check whether the internal elements are touching each other. Sometimes compressor vibration makes glass shelves or plastic containers that come into contact with the walls of the chamber shake. It is enough to simply correct them or place soft cloth or foam rubber between them.
Faults of the compressor and start relay
The most complex and expensive component of the refrigerator is the compressor. It is he who is responsible for the circulation of the refrigerant. If you hear a loud metallic crackling, knocking or humming noise coming directly from the motor at the bottom of the unit, this may indicate a malfunction.
One of the common causes of knocking is failure. start relay. This device starts the compressor motor. If it breaks down, the engine may try to start, make a clicking sound, hum for a few seconds and turn off again. This cycle can be repeated endlessly until you turn off the device.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Required actions |
|---|---|---|
| Loud click and silence | Malfunction of the start relay | Replacement of the relay |
| Metallic knock inside the motor | Wear of the piston group | Replacement of the compressor |
| Vibration and hum | Motor mounts are loose | Tighten bolts, replace shock absorbers |
If the compressor is worn out, valves or pistons may knock inside it. In this case compressor repair most often it is impractical; a complete replacement of the unit is required. It is strictly not recommended to climb inside the engine without special equipment and skills.
Is it possible to replace the compressor yourself?
Theoretically, yes, if you have the skills to work with a soldering torch, a vacuum pump and knowledge of refilling with freon. However, in practice this requires expensive equipment and a license to work with refrigerants. It’s easier and more reliable to call a technician.
Noise of the refrigerant and defrost system
Often users mistake the sounds made by the refrigerant circulating through the pipes for a breakdown. Freon, passing through the capillary tube and evaporator, may gurgle, murmur or hiss. This is a normal operating process, especially in models with one compressor for two chambers.
In refrigerators with a system No Frost noise is added from the fan, which drives cold air around the chamber. If ice builds up on the fan blades or a foreign object gets into it, it begins to crack or hum. Also, the source of sound can be the defrosting system: the heating element heats up and cools down, making clicks, and dripping water produces a characteristic hissing.
If you hear how freon is babbling, but the cold in the chambers remains, and the temperature is normal, then this is normal operation. You should only worry if the sound changes to a piercing whistle or loud hissing, indicating a leak.
In models with a freshness zone or a zero chamber, additional dampers can be used to regulate the air flow. The mechanism for opening and closing these dampers may also produce mechanical clicks or crackles during operation.
The influence of overloading and placement of products
Proper loading of the refrigerator affects not only the safety of food, but also the noise level. If the shelves are overloaded and products are placed close to the back wall or against each other, this can impede air circulation. It becomes harder for the fan to work, which leads to an increase in load on the engine and the appearance of extraneous sounds.
Glass bottles and jars, coming into contact with vibration, can make ringing and crackling noises. Check that the containers are stable on the shelves. Use special organizers or stands to prevent glass from coming into contact with the metal of the shelves or other bottles.
It is also worth checking the freezer. If the layer of ice on the walls or evaporator becomes too thick, the fan may touch the ice crust with its blades. In this case, you need to defrost the refrigerator completely by unplugging it for at least 12-24 hours.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to pick out the ice with a knife or sharp objects. You can damage the evaporator tubes, which will lead to an immediate leak of freon and expensive repairs.
When you need to call a technician
Despite the fact that many sounds are natural, there are situations when a cracking sound is a harbinger of serious damage. If the noise is accompanied by a lack of cold, a constant engine without stopping, or the appearance of puddles under the refrigerator, you should not hesitate.
An alarming signal is a change in the nature of the sound over time. If a quiet hum turns into a loud rumble, and periodic clicks become frequent and rhythmic, this indicates a progressive malfunction. Refrigerator diagnostics at an early stage it can save the compressor from combustion.
Call a specialist if:
- The refrigerator makes loud noises when starting up.
- There is a smell of melted insulation or burning.
- The motor runs continuously, without turning off, and gets very hot.
- The temperature inside the chambers does not hold, food spoils.
A professional technician will be able to accurately determine the source of the sound, using a stethoscope to listen to components and pressure gauges to check the pressure in the system. Self-repair of complex components without experience often leads to aggravation of the situation.
Noise prevention and care of equipment
In order for your refrigerator to work quietly and for a long time, it is important to follow the operating rules. Regular defrosting (for drip systems) or cleaning the drainage hole helps avoid the build-up of excess ice, which is a common cause of fan noise.
Keep the condenser (grids at the back or bottom) clean. Dust and pet hair accumulate on the tubes and impair heat transfer. The compressor is forced to work harder and longer, which increases wear and noise.
Periodically check the condition of the rubber seals on the doors. If they are worn out or dirty, warm air enters the chamber. Sensors detect an increase in temperature and force the compressor to work in increased mode, which inevitably leads to an increase in noise levels.
How to check the seal?
Press a sheet of paper with the refrigerator door. If it pulls out easily without resistance, it means that the seal does not fit tightly and needs to be replaced or washed with a soapy solution.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does a new refrigerator crack more than the old one?
Modern models often use more powerful compressors and new types refrigerants, which may circulate at different pressures, creating more noise. Also, the new plastic elements of the inner chamber have not yet “got used to it” and may react to temperature changes with a louder crackling sound. Usually, after 1-2 weeks of use, the sound becomes quieter.
Is cracking plastic dangerous for health?
No, the sound of cracking plastic itself is absolutely safe. This is the physical process of changing the volume of a material. However, if the cracking sound is accompanied by the smell of burnt plastic, this may indicate overheating of the electrical contacts, which is already a fire hazard.
Can a refrigerator crack due to power surges?
Yes, unstable voltage in the network can cause a humming and crackling sound from the compressor, which is trying to start, but cannot reach the required speed. In such cases, it is recommended to use a voltage stabilizer or surge protector to protect equipment.
What to do if a cracking sound appears after defrosting?
After defrosting, moisture remains in the system, which, when frozen or flowing into the drain, can create sounds. The ice in the freezer could also have shifted and interfered with the fan. Let the refrigerator run idle for several hours. If the sound does not stop, check to see if the drainage is frozen.