Occurrence Extraneous sounds during the operation of household appliances always cause concern to the owner. If you notice that the refrigerator clicksbut does not turn on or makes sounds too often, this is a signal that the system is faulty. In contrast to the smooth hum of the motor, intermittent clicks often indicate problems with the electrical starting circuit or mechanical components of the unit.
These symptoms cannot be ignored, since repeated starting attempts can lead to burnout of the motor windings. In this article we will look in detail at why compressor it makes clicking sounds, how to distinguish normal operation from a breakdown, and in what cases you need to call a technician. Understanding the nature of sound will help you save time and money on repairs.
Modern models, be it Indesit, LG or Atlant, can produce different sounds depending on the design. However, the operating principles of the trigger circuit remain similar for most devices. Let's look at the main scenarios in which you can hear a characteristic knock.
Natural sounds when the compressor operates
Do not immediately panic if you hear a single click. During the cooling and defrosting process, physical processes occur inside the system, accompanied by sound effects. Often, users mistake the absolutely normal functioning of the unit for a breakdown.
One of the reasons may be thermal expansion plastic or metal. When the temperature inside the chambers changes suddenly, the materials contract or expand, producing sounds similar to clicking or crackling sounds. This is especially typical for new refrigerators or after long-term defrosting.
It is also worth considering the operation of the system No Frost. In such models, the fan and defrost heater turn on periodically. Switching modes may be accompanied by a relay sound. If the refrigerator cools properly and the clicks do not repeat cyclically every few seconds, then the device is probably working properly.
- 🔊 Rare single clicks every 30-60 minutes.
- 🌡️ The sounds coincide with the moment the motor is turned on or off.
- ❄️ The refrigerator continues to freeze in normal mode.
Malfunctions of the starting relay and protective device
The most common reason the refrigerator clicks and does not startis the failure of the starting relay. This small element is responsible for providing an impulse to start the engine. When the relay wears out or burns out, it tries to start the motor, makes a click, but the circuit does not close.
⚠️ Attention: If you hear a series of clicks every 10-20 seconds, and the motor does not start, immediately unplug the appliance. Continuing to operate in this mode will result in the compressor burning out.
There is a coil and contacts inside the relay. Over time, the contacts burn out and the spring mechanism weakens. As a result, the device cannot keep the circuit closed. In some models, for example Indesit or Stinol, the relay is mounted directly on the compressor housing and is easily replaced.
The protective device, which is often paired with the relay, can also malfunction. It monitors the temperature and current of the motor. If the sensor “thinks” that the motor is overheated, it opens the circuit with a click. After cooling, the startup attempt is repeated.
How to check the relay yourself?
Carefully remove the back cover of the refrigerator. Find the black box on the compressor. Take it off and shake it. If something dangles and rattles inside, the relay is definitely faulty and requires replacement.
Diagnostics of this part does not require complex equipment. However, to accurately check the contact resistance, it is better to use a multimeter. If you do not have the skills to work with electrical appliances, it is better to entrust this procedure to a specialist.
Problems with the compressor and interturn short circuit
The most serious and expensive problem is the malfunction of itself compressor. If the starting relay is working properly, but the motor hums, clicks and does not start, there may be an interturn short circuit in the motor windings.
In this case, current passes through the turns, creating a magnetic field, but it is not enough to start the rotor. The relay is activated, a click is heard, but the engine stands still. After some time, the thermal relay turns off the power and the cycle repeats. This condition requires professional diagnosis.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Humming and clicking, no start | The compressor is stuck | Call a technician |
| Quiet click, silence | Relay burned out | Replacement of relay |
| Frequent clicks, case heating | Interturn short circuit | Replacing the motor |
| Clicks during defrosting | Normal operation | Observation |
Sometimes the compressor may be mechanically working, but have burnt-out windings. You can check this by measuring the resistance of the windings. Normal values vary depending on the model, but usually range from 20 to 40 Ohms for the starting and operating windings, respectively.
Malfunctions of the thermostat and sensors
Another element that can make clicking sounds is thermostat (thermostat). It is responsible for maintaining the set temperature. When the air in the chamber heats up, the thermostat contacts close and a start click is heard. If the sensor is faulty, it may “rattling” its contacts.
In modern models with electronic control, the role of a thermostat is performed temperature sensors. If the sensor transmits incorrect data to the control module, the system can randomly turn the compressor on and off, which will be accompanied by constant clicks of the relay on the board.
Checking a mechanical type thermostat is simple: you need to close its contacts directly. If the refrigerator starts and works, then the problem is in the sensor. For electronic systems, you will need a tester to check the sensor resistance at different temperatures.
- 🌡️ The thermostat clicks when the limit temperature is reached.
- 🔌 Contact rattling causes the motor to turn on frequently.
- 📉 Incorrect sensor readings disrupt the cycle work.
It is worth noting that in some models, for example, Bosch or Siemens, sensors may fail due to humidity or condensation. In this case, the clicks may be chaotic and not related to the temperature in the chamber.
The influence of network voltage on startup
Unstable voltage in the electrical network is a common cause of problems with starting refrigeration equipment. If the voltage drops below the permissible level (usually below 190-200 Volts), the motor power is not enough to overcome the inertia. As a result, starting relay triggered, a click is heard, but no start occurs.
⚠️ Attention: Continuous operation at low voltage quickly damages the compressor. Use a voltage stabilizer or voltage control relay to protect equipment.
This problem is especially relevant for old houses or summer cottages, where the load on the network is high. At the moment of startup, the neighbors turn on powerful devices (welding, pumps), and the voltage “sags.” The refrigerator tries to start, clicks and stalls.
To diagnose this phenomenon, you can use a voltmeter or a simple voltage control relay with indication. If you see that at the moment of the click the light bulb in the room blinks and the voltage drops, the problem is not in the refrigerator, but in the wiring.
☑️ Checking the power supply
Diagnostics and troubleshooting methods
If you decide to carry out diagnostics yourself, start with a visual inspection. Make sure that the refrigerator is level, the legs are adjusted, and vibration is not transmitted to the body. Sometimes a foreign object that has fallen behind the unit can resonate with the sounds of the motor.
Next you should check the starting relay. Remove the back panel, locate the compressor and carefully remove the relay. Inspect it for melting, carbon deposits or cracks. If everything is normal outwardly, you can try to gently tap the relay on your palm - if you hear the ringing of parts inside, the mechanism is destroyed.
Sequence of actions for diagnostics:1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Remove the protective cover from the back.
3. Remove the start relay from the compressor.
4. Visually inspect and shake the relay.
5. If necessary, replace it with a similar one.
If replacing the relay did not help, and the compressor continues to click and hum, but does not start, most likely the problem is in the motor itself or the refrigerant circulation system. In this case, independent repair is not recommended, since the system must be evacuated and refilled with freon.
Is it possible to temporarily seal the relay?
There is a “folk” method of cleaning the contacts inside the relay, but it gives only a temporary effect for a few days. It is better to immediately buy a new part, it is inexpensive.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to contact a service center. The technician will measure the current and pressure, accurately identifying the unit that requires replacement.
Prevention and operating rules
To extend the life of the refrigerator and avoid clicks associated with overloads, follow simple rules. Do not set the cooling temperature lower than required. The “Super Freeze” mode creates an increased load on the compressor, forcing it to work at its limit.
Regularly defrost the refrigerator if it is not equipped with a system No Frost. A thick layer of ice on the evaporator impairs heat transfer, the motor is forced to work longer and more often, which accelerates wear and tear on the starting equipment. Also keep the condenser at the back of the unit clean.
- ❄️ Do not overload the chambers with products.
- 🧹 Wipe the condenser from dust every six months.
- 🔌 Use a surge protector or stabilizer.
Following these recommendations will help avoid situations when The refrigerator clicks and stops freezing. Remember that timely prevention is always cheaper than replacing the compressor or the entire unit.
Why does the refrigerator click immediately after being plugged in?
A click immediately after being turned on is the normal operation of the start relay, which provides an impulse to start the compressor. If the motor hums after the click, everything is fine. If there are a lot of clicks but no hum, the relay or compressor is faulty.
Is it dangerous if the refrigerator clicks every 10 seconds?
Yes, it is dangerous. Frequent clicking sounds mean that the engine is trying to start but cannot. This leads to rapid overheating of the windings and thermal breakdown. It is necessary to disconnect the device from the network and call a technician.
Is it possible to operate the refrigerator if it clicks, but freezes?
If the clicks are rare (once every hour and a half) and are associated with on/off cycles, operation is possible. If the clicks are frequent or are accompanied by a hum without starting, operation will lead to breakdown of the compressor.
How much does it cost to replace the start relay?
The cost of the relay itself is low and depends on the model of the refrigerator (usually from 500 to 1500 rubles). The replacement work takes 15-20 minutes. Independent replacement is possible if you have basic skills.