Sharp sound signals from household appliances always cause alarm, especially when it comes to refrigeratorworking around the clock. Knocks or clicks can appear suddenly, disturbing the silence in the house and leaving the owner guessing about the reasons for what is happening. Most often, these sounds are associated with natural physical processes inside the unit, but sometimes they signal serious damage.
It is important to understand that compressor and the refrigerant circulation system is under high pressure, and any changes in their operation are accompanied by sound. However, the nature of the sound is crucial: a quiet, infrequent click when turned on is different from a loud, frequent crackling sound that does not stop. Ignoring alarming symptoms can lead to failure of expensive components.
In this article we will examine in detail why refrigerator clickswhich sounds are considered normal and which require immediate intervention. You will learn to distinguish the natural thermal expansion of materials from signs of electrical circuit malfunction or mechanical damage.
⚠️ Attention: If clicks are accompanied by a lack of cold in the chambers, you must immediately disconnect the device from the network to avoid burning out the compressor.
Natural causes of sounds when operation
The most common reason why a refrigerator makes clicking sounds is thermal expansion of materials. The inner walls of the chamber, the evaporator and other elements constantly change their temperature depending on the operating cycle thermostat. When heated, plastic and metal expand, and when cooled they contract, which is accompanied by a characteristic crackling sound.
These sounds are most often heard immediately after the compressor is turned off or at moments when the unit is just starting to get cold. This acoustic noise is absolutely normal for most models, especially for those equipped with the No Frostsystem. The sound may be similar to the crackling of plastic or a slight clicking sound.
The intensity of such manifestations depends on the quality of the plastic used in production and the temperature difference. Over time, as the materials “get used to”, the volume may decrease, but the sounds rarely disappear completely.
Malfunctions of the start relay and electrical circuit
If the clicks become loud, repetitive and are accompanied by attempts to start the engine, which immediately stalls, the problem lies in starting relay. This small element is responsible for supplying voltage to the compressor windings at start-up. When the relay wears out or burns out, it begins to make a loud metallic click, trying to close the circuit.
In such a situation, the engine hums for several seconds, a sharp sound is heard clickingand the operation stops. After some time, the cycle repeats. This is a critical situation, since constant attempts to start can lead to overheating and complete failure compressor. Replacing the relay is an inexpensive procedure, but requires care.
Also the cause may be a malfunction of the thermostat itself. If the contacts inside it burn or stick, the device can randomly turn the equipment on and off, making characteristic sounds. Diagnostics of the electrical part requires the use of a multimeter to check the continuity of the circuit.
How to check the starting relay yourself?
To check, you need to remove the relay from the compressor and shake it. If a ringing or knocking sound is heard inside (as if from a broken part), it means that the trigger mechanism is damaged and requires replacement.
Problems with the compressor and motor
The most expensive component of the refrigerator is compressor. If it begins to make unusual sounds, such as clanging, knocking or loud clicks during operation, this may indicate mechanical wear on the internal parts. The piston group can rub against the cylinder walls, creating a metallic clang.
Another reason is loose motor mounts. Vibration during operation is transmitted to the housing, and if the rubber shock absorbers are worn out or the screws are loose, the compressor begins to hit the metal elements of the structure. This creates a lot of noise and clicks, especially at the moments of starting and stopping.
In rare cases, clicks inside the motor indicate an interturn short circuit of the windings. In such a situation, the equipment may work unstably, and it will consume much more electricity than normal. Motor diagnostics are complex and often require replacement of the entire unit.
⚠️ Attention: Repairing a compressor at home is practically impossible and not economically feasible. If you suspect a malfunction, it is better to call a specialist for an accurate diagnosis.
Ventilation and No Frost system
In refrigerators with a system No Frost a fan is responsible for air circulation. If its blades touch frozen ice or a foreign object, a characteristic crack or a series of frequent clicks occurs. This happens because the fan rotation speed is high, and any obstacle causes shocks.
The damper that regulates the flow of cold air between the chambers can also make noise. If the damper mechanism is jammed with ice or is not working correctly, the actuator will try to open or close it, making clicking sounds. This is usually accompanied by errors on the display or uneven cooling.
To fix the problem, defrosting the refrigerator during the day is often required. If the sounds do not stop after complete defrosting and removing the ice, the fan motor or damper mechanism may have failed.
☑️ Diagnostics of the ventilation system
The influence of incorrect installation on the noise level
Often the cause of extraneous sounds is a banal violation of the installation rules. If the refrigerator is not level, vibration from the running compressor is transmitted to the floor and walls, causing resonance. Not only the legs can vibrate, but also nearby objects: shelves, dishes, decorative elements.
It is important to check the distance to the back wall. If condenser (the grille at the back) is too close to the wall, this may cause additional sounds due to impaired heat transfer and vibration of the tubes. Also, the tubes may touch each other or the housing, creating a ringing sound when the motor is running.
Adjusting the legs helps level the unit. Most models have screw-type front legs, making height and stability adjustments easy. Correct installation is the key to quiet operation of the equipment.
Comparative table of causes and solution methods
To quickly navigate the problem, use the following table. It will help classify the sound and understand what actions need to be taken first.
| Sound type | Probable cause | Urgency of repair | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quiet crackling plastic | Thermal expansion | Not required | Observation |
| Loud clicking and humming | Start relay | High | Relay relay |
| Metal clanging | Compressor wear | Critical | Call a technician |
| Frequent crackling in the chamber | Fan or ice | Average | Defrosting |
| Vibration body | Improper installation | Low | Adjusting the legs |
When you need to call a specialist
There are a number of situations when self-repair is not only ineffective, but also dangerous. If you hear clicks and the refrigerator has stopped freezing, the temperature in the chambers is rising, and ice has appeared on the back wall - these are signs of a serious malfunction. Perhaps there was freon output or a blockage of the capillary system.
Also, the help of a specialist is needed if the clicks are accompanied by the smell of burning or melted insulation. This is a direct sign of electrical problems that can lead to a fire. You should not risk the safety of your home to save on calling a technician.
Professional diagnostics allow you to accurately determine the source of the sound using special equipment. The technician will be able to check the pressure in the system, the current strength in the windings and the tightness of the circuit, which cannot be done at home.
⚠️ Attention: Opening a sealed cooling circuit without a license and special equipment is prohibited and can be hazardous to health due to the toxicity of refrigerants.
Prevention of noisy operation of the refrigerator
To minimize the risk of extraneous sounds, it is necessary to regularly service the equipment. Timely defrosting (even for No Frost systems, at least once a year) will prevent ice build-up on the fan and evaporator. Cleaning the condenser from behind from dust will also improve heat transfer and reduce the load on the motor.
Make sure that the products in the chamber do not touch the back wall and do not block the air ducts. This will ensure proper air circulation and reduce the likelihood of localized frost zones that can cause clicking noises.
Check the stability of the refrigerator regularly. Over time, the legs may become loose and the floor may sag. A simple adjustment of the position of the unit will extend the life of its components and maintain silence in your home.
Is it possible to lubricate rubbing parts with oil?
You cannot lubricate the moving parts of a fan or damper with ordinary oil - it will freeze at low temperatures and jam the mechanism. Use only special frost-resistant lubricants.
Why does the refrigerator click but does not turn on?
This is a classic symptom of a malfunction of the start relay or the compressor itself. The relay tries to start the motor, a click is heard, but there is not enough starting torque, and the protection turns off the power. The relay needs to be replaced or diagnostics of the motor windings is required.
Is it normal for the refrigerator to click after defrosting?
Yes, this is normal. When turned on for the first time after defrosting, active cooling of the elements occurs; their sharp compression causes sounds of thermal expansion. The fan can also work, removing remaining moisture.
How often should the starting relay be changed?
The starting relay does not have a specific service life and is replaced only after a breakdown. It can last 10 years, or it can fail after 3 years due to power surges in the network.
Can a new refrigerator click?
Yes, new refrigerators often make more pronounced sounds of thermal expansion, since the materials have not yet “got used to it.” You may also hear the operation of a new compressor, which has not yet been developed.