The situation when household refrigerator begins to make extraneous sounds, often taking owners by surprise. It is especially frightening if the unit does not just hum, but literally “shoots” or clicks loudly when trying to start. These sounds can be either a sign of natural physical processes or a signal of a serious breakdown of internal components.
In this article we will examine in detail why compressor it makes sharp sounds, how to distinguish normal from malfunction, and in which cases immediate intervention by a technician is required. Understanding the nature of these sounds will help you save time on diagnostics and avoid unnecessary expenses on repairs.
Often the cause is wear starting relay or problems with the electrical circuit. However, you should not make hasty conclusions without thoroughly checking all systems, since the nature of the sound may vary depending on the model and age of the equipment.
Physics of the process: why clicks occur
Before sounding the alarm, it is important to understand that not every sound is a breakdown. The metal body of the refrigerator compartment and the evaporator are subject to thermal expansion. When you have just turned on the device or, conversely, it has completed the cooling cycle, parts may shrink or expand.
This process is accompanied by a characteristic crackling sound, reminiscent of shots or clicks. Thermal deformation plastic and metal - this is an absolutely normal phenomenon, especially for equipment with a system No Frost. If the sound is rare and is not accompanied by equipment failure, there is nothing to worry about.
However, if the clicks become rhythmic and are repeated with enviable regularity, especially when trying to start the engine, this is already a sign of a failure. In such cases the interval between clicks is usually from 2 to 5 minuteswhich corresponds to the time required for the thermocouple in the protective relay to cool down.
Faulty compressor start relay
The most likely reason for which the refrigerator clicks and does not turn on is a failure of the starting relay. This small element is responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings at start-up. If the relay is faulty, it cannot start the motor, opens the circuit (click) and waits for it to cool down to try again.
Inside the relay body there is a coil or posistor, which degrade over time. You may hear a series of rapid clicks followed by a pause. If no action is taken, compressor may burn out from constant attempts to start.
⚠️ Attention: Long-term operation of the refrigerator with a faulty starting relay leads to overheating of the motor windings. If you hear a characteristic cracking sound every 3-5 minutes, immediately unplug the device until the technician arrives.
Replacing this part usually does not require complex equipment. The technician removes the back cover, disconnects the wires and replaces the relay with a new one, selected according to the motor power. This is one of the most common and easily eliminated reasons why the refrigerator is cracking during operation.
Symptoms of relay combustion
Inside the plastic relay case you can see traces of burning, melted plastic or smell a burnt wiring. Also, the relay may be loose if the internal mounting mechanism is damaged.
Problems with the thermostat and temperature sensors
Another common culprit of strange sounds is thermostat. If its contacts become burnt or stuck, they may not complete the circuit to start the compressor. At the moment of opening or attempting to close the contacts, a click also occurs.
Modern models with electronic control use temperature sensorsinstead of a mechanical thermostat. Their malfunction leads to the control module receiving incorrect data and either not giving a command to start, or, conversely, trying to start the system when there is no need.
Diagnostics of the thermostat requires testing the contacts with a tester. If, when the temperature changes, the thermostat rod does not make a characteristic closing click, or if the circuit does not ring, the part must be replaced. This is a critical component for maintaining temperature conditions.
Water hammer in the cooling system
Sometimes a loud sound, reminiscent of a gunshot or a strong blow, occurs due to water hammer in the refrigerant circulation system. This happens when liquid freon instead of a gaseous state enters the compressor.
Since liquid does not compress as easily as gas, excess pressure is created in the system, which causes a sharp sound. This is often accompanied by vibration of the tubes. This situation may occur after improper transportation or refilling.
If you hear a sharp popping sound, this may mean that there is too much oil or refrigerant in the system. Also, the cause may be a clogged capillary tube, due to which the pressure is pumped unevenly. The refrigerator gurgles and pops sharply, this may indicate that there is too much oil or refrigerant in the system. The cause may also be a clogged capillary tube, causing pressure to be released unevenly.
| Type of sound | Probable cause | Urgency of repair | Risk for the compressor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rare crackling noise (once an hour) | Thermal expansion | Not required | Absent |
| Frequent clicks (every 3 minutes) | Start relay | High | High |
| Loud bang + hum | Water hammer / Freon | Average | Average |
| Single click and silence | Thermostat / Wiring | Average | Low |
Diagnostics of electrical wiring and contacts
Poor contact in an electrical circuit is not only the cause of sounds, but also a potential fire hazard. If plug or the socket is loose, sparking may occur, which can be heard as a cracking sound. Also, oxidation of the contacts on the compressor itself gives a similar effect.
You must carefully inspect the power cord. If there are kinks, damage to the insulation or traces of melting, use should be discontinued. Inside the device, the wires may have moved away from the terminals due to constant vibration when the motor is running.
⚠️ Attention: Before any check of electrical contacts, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply. Working with 220V voltage without proper qualifications is deadly.
Particular attention should be paid to the cable entry point into the refrigerator body. There, the wire often breaks, which leads to a short circuit and characteristic sounds. If you are not confident in your skills in working with electrical equipment, it is better not to take risks.
☑️ Primary diagnosis of sounds
When you need to call a specialist
Independent repair is possible only in simple cases cases, for example, when replacing the start relay, if you have the skills. However, if compressor it hums, but does not start, or if the system requires refilling with freon, you cannot do without a specialist.
The technician will be able to determine exactly why unit shoots using professional equipment. He will check the pressure in the system, the current strength of the windings and the integrity of the insulation. An attempt to “treat” complex electronics or a gas circulation system on your own often leads to higher repair costs.
If after replacing the relay the situation has not changed, then the problem is deeper - perhaps an interturn short circuit in the engine or a malfunction of the control module. In such cases, comprehensive diagnostics are required at a service center.
Prevention and proper care
To avoid situations when refrigerator begins to act up, it is important to follow the operating rules. Do not place hot foods inside, this puts extra stress on the cooling system and causes temperature changes leading to deformation.
Regularly clean the condenser (grid at the back) of dust. A heat exchanger clogged with dust causes the motor to overload, which shortens the life of all components, including the start relay. Also make sure that the device is stable on the floor.
Thaw the chamber in a timely manner if you have a drip system. An ice coat disrupts heat exchange and causes the thermostat to operate in emergency mode. Simple rules of care will extend the life of your equipment for many years.
The influence of power surges
A frequent cause of failure of electronics and relays is power surges in the network. Use surge protectors or stabilizers to protect expensive equipment.
Why does the refrigerator click but does not freeze?
Most likely, the compressor or start relay has failed. The motor tries to start (clicking), but cannot turn the shaft or gain speed. A freon leak is also possible, causing the system to run idle.
Is it dangerous if the refrigerator makes loud noises?
If it is the crackling of plastic, it is not dangerous. If electrical clicks or buzzing with vibration are heard, this can lead to a fire or complete failure of the equipment. It’s better to play it safe and call a professional.
Is it possible to use the refrigerator if it clicks?
For a short time - yes, the food will not spoil immediately. But it is impossible to leave the device in this state overnight or while away, since the risk of fire or final breakdown of the compressor is very high.
How much does it cost to replace the start relay?
The cost consists of the price of the part itself (it is inexpensive) and the work of the technician. Depending on the region and model of the refrigerator, the price may vary, but this is one of the most budget-friendly types of repairs.