Extraneous sounds in the operation of household appliances always cause concern to the owner, especially if we are talking about a refrigerator that operates around the clock. The situation when the refrigerator is crackingcan range from harmless (safe) sounds of thermal expansion of materials to serious mechanical failures. Understanding the nature of these noises allows you to avoid panic and unnecessary costs of calling a technician where you can handle it yourself.
In this article we will take a detailed look at the physics of the processes occurring inside the chamber and analyze breakdowns that require intervention. It is important to distinguish the nature of the sound: these are rhythmic clicks, crackling of plastic, humming or ringing of metal. Modern models, equipped with No Frost systems and inverter compressors, emit specific sounds that are often confused with signs of breakdown. Let's figure out when noise is the norm, and when it's time to sound the alarm.
Natural causes of crackling: thermal expansion
The most common and absolutely normal cause of crackling is the physical phenomenon of thermal expansion and compression of materials. The interior of the refrigerator, shelves and back wall are made of plastic or metal. With a sharp change in temperature, for example, immediately after turning on the compressor or after defrosting, these materials change their volume. The plastic compresses or stretches, emitting a characteristic ringing crackling sound, reminiscent of clicks or even shots.
This process is especially noticeable in new refrigerators or in models with the system No Frost, where temperature changes are sharper. Typically, this sound lasts only a few minutes after the engine starts or after it stops. If the crackling noise is heard precisely at these moments and is not accompanied by other symptoms (heating of the case, lack of cold), then you should not worry.
The intensity of such sounds depends on the quality of the plastic and the rigidity of the structure. Cheaper models may make louder noises due to thinner evaporator walls. Over time, as materials become accustomed to heating and cooling cycles, the frequency of these clicking sounds may decrease. However, in hot weather, when the compressor operates under increased load, the sounds may become more frequent.
Malfunctions of the evaporator and No Frost system
If a crackling noise is heard not only at startup, but also during operation, you should pay attention to the condition of the evaporator. In systems with automatic defrost, ice may form on the evaporator. When turned on Defrost heating element, the ice begins to melt and large pieces of ice may fall onto the heating element or the bottom of the chamber, making a loud cracking or knocking sound. This is often accompanied by hissing.
Another problem in this category is deformation of the plastic evaporator box due to overheating or manufacturing defects. When heated, the plastic deforms and cracks. If the air circulation in the refrigerator is disrupted (the ducts or the fan are clogged), local overheating intensifies, and cracking noise becomes a constant companion to the operation of the unit. In such cases, it is often necessary defrosting the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
⚠️ Attention: If the crackling sound is accompanied by the smell of burning or burning plastic, immediately unplug the appliance. This may indicate overheating of the wiring or defrost heating element.
In models with Full No Frost the fan may be the source of sound. If ice is frozen on the blades, they begin to touch the body or ice, producing a crackling sound. This requires defrosting. If the fan is worn out (bearings), the sound will be more like a grinding or buzzing sound, but if ice gets in, a cracking sound is also possible.
Why does ice get on the heating element?
Ice can get on the heating element if the defrost sensor or timer is faulty. They do not give the command to turn on the heating on time, the ice builds up, and then during an emergency start the heating element or simply falls from gravity onto the hot spiral, causing a loud crackling and hissing.
Problems with the compressor and start relay
The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator, and its operation should not be silent, but the nature of the sound matters. A steady hum is considered normal. If you hear loud clicks, followed by an attempt to start and a click again, the problem lies in starting relay. It may “crack”, trying to start the motor, but not coping with the task due to wear on the contacts or voltage surges.
The compressor itself can also make a crackling noise if its internal mechanics are damaged. For example, if the internal spring on which the motor is suspended breaks, it begins to hit the walls of the casing every time it starts. It sounds like a metallic clanging or crackling sound. In older models, the cause may be wear on the piston group. In modern inverter models compressors they operate more quietly, but if the control electronics fail, they can produce a high-frequency crackling sound.
Diagnostics of a compressor requires caution. If, when you touch the body of a running motor with your hand, you feel a strong vibration accompanied by a crackling sound, this is a bad sign. Often such symptoms precede a complete stop of the refrigerator. In this case, independent repair is impossible; replacement of the unit is required.
☑️ Diagnostics of compressor noise
Vibration and contact with foreign objects
Often the cause of a banal crackling noise lies not inside, but outside. Vibration from a running compressor is transmitted to the housing and can cause rattling of loose parts. Check whether the rear grille (condenser) is touching the wall or other objects. Even a minimal gap of 1-2 cm can create a resonating crack.
Inside the chambers, glass shelves, bottles or dishes can become a sound source. When vibrating, they can come into contact with each other or with the walls, creating the illusion of equipment failure. It is also worth inspecting condensation traylocated above the compressor. If it is shifted or deformed, the vibration of the motor will cause it to rattle.
Pay special attention to the shipping bolts if the refrigerator is new. Although refrigerators typically have fewer of these than washing machines, some of the internal suspension may have been fixed. Make sure that all packaging materials are removed.
Comparison table: Normal or broken?
To make it easier for you to navigate, we We have prepared a table systematizing the main features. It will help distinguish natural processes from critical malfunctions.
| Sound type | When it occurs | Probable cause | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audible crackling/clicking | Immediately after switching on/off | Thermal expansion of plastic | Normal |
| Loud clicking and buzzing | When trying to start the engine | Malfunction of the starting relay | Repair needed |
| Crackling with hissing | Periodically, once every 8-12 hours | Ice melting on the heating element (No Frost). repair | Normal (if water is not dripping) |
| Metal clang | Constantly when the engine is running | Compressor defect (suspension) | Urgent repairs |
| Fan crackling | Continuously or when opening the door | Ice on the blades or bearing wear | Defrosting or replacing |
What to do: step-by-step diagnostic instructions
If you determine that cracking is not normal, you need to conduct an initial diagnosis. Do not rush to call a specialist until you have ruled out simple causes. The first step should always be to completely defrost the refrigerator. Even if you have a No Frost system, leave the device turned off for 24 hours with the doors open. This will allow the ice in the hidden channels to completely melt.
After defrosting, turn on the refrigerator and listen to it. If the cracking noise disappears, then the problem was with ice. If the sound returns after a few days, it means that the defrost cycle is broken (the timer, sensor or heating element is faulty). If the cracking noise remains immediately after turning on the empty refrigerator, the problem is mechanical.
Check the horizontal installation. Use a building level. The legs of the refrigerator should be unscrewed so that the body has a slight tilt back - this will ensure a tight fit of the doors and proper operation of the mechanisms. A skewed housing creates tension on the frame, which causes a cracking sound when the compressor operates.
☑️ Action plan for cracking
Prevention and proper care
To minimize the risks of extraneous noise and extend the life of the unit, it is important to follow the operating rules. Clean the drainage hole inside the camera regularly. If it is clogged, the water does not drain, freezes, forms an ice plug, which then, expanding or falling, creates noise.
Do not place the refrigerator close to the wall. A gap of 10-15 cm is necessary for free air circulation around the condenser. Overheating of the rear grille leads to expansion of the metal and additional noise. Also keep the condenser clean: dust and animal hair act as a heat insulator, causing the compressor to work harder and noisier.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to open the compressor casing yourself or break off the ice with sharp objects. Damage to the evaporator tubes will lead to freon leakage and costly repairs.
Proper loading of the chambers also affects acoustics. Food should not lie close to the back wall or interfere with the operation of the fan. Following these simple rules will allow your refrigeration equipment to operate quietly and efficiently for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is the refrigerator crackling only at night, is this normal?
At night, extraneous sounds are heard better due to the general silence in the apartment. If a cracking noise occurs when the motor is turned on or off, then this is most likely thermal expansion, which is normal. However, if the refrigerator operates at high speed at night (for example, due to the heat during the day), the sounds may simply be more noticeable.
A new refrigerator makes a lot of noise on the first day of operation. What to do?
In the first days of operation, a new refrigerator may make louder sounds. The parts are ground in, the oil is distributed in the compressor and the plastic elements “shrink”. Let the equipment work for 3-5 days. If the cracking does not become quieter or does not change in character, contact the service center under warranty.
Can a magnet on the door crack?
The magnet itself cannot crack. However, if the rubber seal is loose or deformed, the door may vibrate slightly and the magnetic strip inside the rubber will tap against the frame. Check the tightness of the door around the entire perimeter.
The crackling sound appeared after defrosting, although it was not there before.
This may indicate that there is some moisture left in the system that has frozen in the wrong place (for example, on the fan blades). Try to defrost the refrigerator again, but for a longer period (up to 30 hours), to ensure that all moisture from hidden cavities is evaporated.