Why does a Bosch refrigerator crack: when is it normal and when is it a breakdown?

If your refrigerator not only cracks, but also does not freeze well, gets very hot or turns off, go straight to the pro section critical faults. For all other cases, read the article sequentially: we start with harmless reasons and end with those that require calling a specialist.

1. Normal operating sounds: when crackling is not dangerous

Modern refrigerators Bosch are equipped with complex cooling systems that inevitably make sounds. Here is what relates to normal operation and should not cause concern:

• 🔄 Clicks of the start relay - short metallic sounds when turning the compressor on/off (especially noticeable in models with linear compressors as Bosch KGN36XL30). This is normal operation of the starting device.
• ❄️ Crackling of plastic when temperature changes —the refrigerator body is slightly deformed when heating/cooling (more often heard in the first hours after switching on or when NoFrost-defrosting).
• 💧 Gurgling or crackling in the tubes - circulation of refrigerant (freon) through the system. In inverter models (Bosch KIN86AF30), this sound can be constant, but quiet.
• 🔊 Quiet hum of a fan — in models with NoFrost (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30) the fan distributes cold air, which is accompanied by uniform noise.

How to distinguish a normal crackling sound from a breakdown? Pay attention to the regularity and volume:

• ✅ Normal: sounds are short-term (1-2 seconds), repeated at intervals of 10-30 minutes, not intensify over time.
• ❌ Problem: the crackling is constant, becomes louder, accompanied by vibration or overheating of the case.

If your refrigerator falls into the first category, no action needs to be taken. To be sure, you can record the sound on your phone and compare it with examples from the official Bosch guide (section "Refrigerator Noises").

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Bosch with the function SuperCooling (fast cooling) compressor operates at increased power, which can amplify standard sounds. This is not a breakdown - the mode turns off automatically after 6–12 hours.

2. Problems with the compressor: when a crackling sound is a signal of malfunction

The compressor is the “heart” of the refrigerator, and its problems often manifest themselves through atypical sounds. Let's consider 3 critical scenariosrequiring diagnostics:

2.1. Cracking sound when starting the compressor

If the refrigerator Bosch makes noise loud clicks at the moment it turns on, and then immediately turns off - this is a sign:

• 🔌 Malfunction of the starting relay (a common problem in models older than 5 years, for example, Bosch KGV36VW20). The relay “sticks” and cannot start the engine.
• 🔋 Voltage drop in the network —the compressor tries to start, but the protection is triggered. Check the voltage with a multimeter (should be 220–230 V).

How to check:

1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network for 10 minutes.
2. Turn on again and listen: if the clicks are repeated and the motor does not start, the relay needs to be replaced.

2.2. Constant noise during operation

If the refrigerator crackling continuously (as if something is scratching or knocking inside), possible reasons:

• 🛠️ Wear of the compressor suspension - shock absorbers or springs have lost their elasticity (typical for models with linear compressors, for example, Bosch KGE36AI40).
• 🧊 Ice gets into the fan blades (in systems NoFrost). Ice forms when the evaporator heater malfunctions.

2.3. starts

The situation when the motor hums, crackles, but does not start pumping freonindicates:

• 🔧 Interturn short circuit in the compressor winding (replacement is required).
• 🛢️ Refrigerant leak —the compressor runs “idle.” In this case, the refrigerator does not freeze well, and the condenser (grid at the back) does not heat up.

⚠️ Attention: If the compressor Bosch the refrigerator body is cracking and vibrating strongly, immediately unplug it! This may be a sign destruction of the internal parts of the motor (for example, valves), which leads to oil leakage and complete failure.

3. Cracking in NoFrost systems: ice and fans

Refrigerators Bosch with technology (for example, NoFrost (For example, KAN90VI20, KIN86AF30) have additional sources of noise: fans and evaporator heaters. Let's consider typical problems:

3.1. data-i="167">If the refrigerator is cracking

If the refrigerator is cracking as if something is clinging to the bladesmost likely ice has built up on the fan. This is due to:

• 🔥 Faulty defrost heater —it should melt the frost every 8–12 hours.
• 🚪 Frequent opening of the door —moist air enters the chamber and condenses on the evaporator.
• 📉 Drops in room temperature lower +16°C (humidity increases).

How to fix:

1. Turn off the refrigerator for 12-24 hours to allow the ice to melt.
2. Check the operation of the heater: after turning it on, it should heat up within 6–10 hours (you can touch the back wall of the freezer - it will be warm).
3. If the heater does not work, replacement is required (the part costs ~2,000–3,500 ₽).

3.2. Cracking of plastic parts in the freezer

In models with NoFrost plastic air guides (deflectors) may crack when:

• ❄️ A sharp change in temperature (for example, after defrosting).
• 🔄 Long-term use (plastic becomes brittle after 5-7 years).

Solution: inspect the freezer with a flashlight. If you see cracks on the white plastic parts, they need to be replaced (cost ~500–1,500 rubles per part). A temporary solution is to carefully glue the cracks food-grade silicone (but this is not durable).

⚠️ Attention: If in the refrigerator Bosch c NoFrost crackling is accompanied the appearance of water under the drawers - this is a sign of a clogged drainage hole. Clean it with a wire or rinse with warm water (do not use sharp objects!).

4. Cracking due to incorrect temperature

Refrigerators Bosch are sensitive to external conditions. If the room is too hot or cold, this can cause abnormal sounds:

• 🌡️ Temperature below +16°C: the compressor works at its limit, which increases the noise. Excess ice may form in the freezer.
• 🔥 Temperature above +30°C: the compressor does not turn off, overheats, the cracking intensifies due to thermal expansion of parts.
• ☀️ Direct sunlight on the body: one side of the refrigerator heats up more, which causes deformation of the plastic.

How to fix:

• Move the refrigerator to a place with a temperature +16…+30°C.
• Make sure that the gap between the wall and the back wall of the refrigerator is at least 5 cm (for ventilation).
• Check the door seal: if it is worn, warm air penetrates inside, causing the compressor to work harder.

In models with electronic control (Bosch KIN86AF30, KAN92VI30), an incorrect temperature may cause the program to crash. Try resetting the settings:

Press and hold the "Super" button for 5 seconds → select "Reset" → confirm.

5. Mechanical causes of crackling: what breaks over time

Over time, mechanical parts in the refrigerator wear out, which leads to extraneous sounds. Let's consider 4 key problems:

5.1. Wear of compressor shock absorbers

The shock-absorbing springs or rubber cushions on which the compressor is mounted lose their elasticity after 5–8 years. Symptoms:

• The cracking noise intensifies when touches the body with your hand..
• The refrigerator vibrates is stronger than usual.
• The sound resembles the knock of metal on metal.

Solution: adjust the position of the compressor or replace the shock absorbers (cost ~800–1,500 rubles per set). As a temporary measure, you can place a rubber gasket under the motor 5.2. Cracks in the plastic casing thickness of 3–5 mm.

5.2. Cracks in the plastic case

Plastic becomes brittle over time, especially in places where shelves or door hinges are attached. Pay attention to:

• 🚪 Door hinges —if they are loose, the door may catch on the body when opened.
• 📦 Shelf fastenings —cracked holders make clicks when loaded.
• ❄️ The back wall of the freezer —in models with NoFrost it can become deformed due to temperature changes.

How to fix:

• Tighten the door hinges Phillips screwdriver (do not overtighten!).
• Replace cracked shelf holders (parts can be ordered by model number on the website Bosch).
• If the back wall is cracked, do not repair it yourself! This may damage the thermal insulation. Contact service.

5.3. Problems with the drainage system

A clogged drain hole or tube can cause gurgling and cracking sounds. when water drains. This is typical for models with drip system (Bosch KGE36AI40).

How to clean:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and remove the bottom shelf.
2. Find the drainage hole (usually in the center of the back wall of the refrigerator).
3. Rinse it with warm water using syringes or clean with soft wire.

⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp objects (needles, knives) to clean the drainage - this can puncture the tube! If the blockage is deep, it is better to call a specialist.

5.4. Thermostat malfunction

If the thermostat (thermostat) does not work correctly, the compressor may turn on too often, which leads to increased noise. Signs:

• Refrigerator turns off after 5-10 minutes after startup.
• Temperature in the chamber does not match the settings (too high or low).
• Audible frequent relay clicks (every 1-2 minutes).

Checking the thermostat:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and remove the thermostat (usually it is located inside the chamber, under the plastic cover).
2. Test it with a multimeter in resistance test mode. At room temperature, the resistance should be 0 Ohm (closed), when cooled (for example, in a freezer) - ∞ (open).

6. Electrical faults: when a cracking sound is dangerous

Some sounds in the refrigerator Bosch may indicate electrical problems, which require immediate intervention. Let's consider three critical cases:

6.1. Sparking or crackling in the socket

If the sound is heard not from the refrigerator, but from the socketsign:

• 🔌 Bad contact in the plug or socket.
• ⚡ Short short circuit in the power cord.
• 🔋 Network overload (if other powerful appliances are connected to the same outlet).

Actions:

1. Immediately disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Check plug and socket for melting or blackening.
3. If there is no damage, plug the refrigerator into another outlet (preferably with grounding).

⚠️ Attention: If there is a burning smell from the outlet or a spark is visible - do not turn on the refrigerator until you replace the socket or wire! This may lead to a fire In models. Bosch with electronic control (KIN86AF30), voltage surges often damage the control board (repair will cost ~5,000–8,000 RUR).

6.2. Cracking inside the electronic module

In refrigerators with display and electronic control (Bosch KAN92VI30, KIN86AF30), the crackling can come from:

• 📱 Control boards - cracking of capacitors or relays.
• 🔌 Transformer (in models with an inverter compressor).

Signs of board malfunction:

• The display flashes or shows errors (E1, E2, F5).
• The refrigerator spontaneously turns on/off.
• The crackling sound is accompanied by a burning smell.

Solution: turn off the refrigerator and call a technician. Self-repair of the board is impossible - flashing or replacement is required (cost ~4,000–7,000 rubles).

6.3. Problems with the start-up relay

The compressor relay may crack if:

• 🔧 The contacts are burnt (due to frequent power surges).
• 🛠️ The spring has weakened and does not fix the contacts.

How to check:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and remove the relay cover (it is secured with latches).
2. Inspect the contacts: if they are blackened or melted, the relay needs to be replaced.
3. Shake the relay: if something rattles inside, this is a sign of a breakdown.

The cost of a new relay is ~1,200–2,000 rubles. Replacement takes 10–15 minutes and does not require special tools.

7. When a crack is a sign of a serious breakdown

There are situations when a crack in the refrigerator Bosch signals something requiring urgent repairs. Pay attention to the following symptoms: critical malfunctionsrequiring urgent repairs. Pay attention to the following symptoms:

If you observe at least one of these signs immediately disconnect the refrigerator from the network and call a specialist. Continued operation may lead to:

• 🔥 Fire (if there is a short circuit in the compressor winding).
• 💸 Expensive repairs (for example, replacing the compressor + freon will cost ~15,000–20,000 ₽).
• 🚫 Loss of warranty (if the refrigerator is under warranty, self-repair will void it).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators Bosch with inverter compressors (KIN86AF30, KAN92VI30) you cannot ignore a crackling sound accompanied by errors on the display (for example, E02 or F05). This indicates a failure in the control system, which can destroy the compressor in 1-2 days.

8. Prevention: how to prevent cracking in a Bosch refrigerator

To minimize the risk of extraneous sounds, follow these recommendations:

• 📍 Correct placement:
  • Install the refrigerator on flat surface (use a level).
  • Keep gaps: 5 cm on the back and sides, 10 cm on top.
  • Avoid installation near heat sources (stove, radiator, sunny window).
• ⚡ Stable power supply:
  • Connect the refrigerator via surge protector (especially in houses with an old wiring).
  • Avoid using extension cords - they can cause a voltage drop.
• 🧊 Care for the NoFrost system:
  • Defreeze the refrigerator once every 6-12 months (even if the manufacturer claims that this is not necessary).
  • Check the drainage hole for blockages.
• 🔧 Regular check:
  • Once a month, wipe the back wall of the refrigerator from dust (this improves heat transfer).
  • Check the door seal - if it has lost elasticity, replace it.

For models with inverter compressor (Bosch KIN86AF30) it is especially important:

• Do not disconnect the refrigerator from the network for a long time (inverter compressors do not like frequent starts).
• Avoid overloading the freezer (distribute food evenly).

Following these rules will extend the life of the refrigerator and reduce the likelihood of extraneous sounds. If a cracking noise does appear, use diagnostic algorithm from this article to determine its cause.

Frequently asked questions about cracking in Bosch refrigerators