The situation when you notice that something clicks in the refrigeratorcan cause anxiety in any owner of household appliances. This sound can be barely audible and rare, or it can be repeated with alarming regularity, interrupting the night's rest or distracting from household chores. Often, owners begin to panic, assuming an imminent compressor breakdown or the need for expensive repairs, but everything is not always so critical.
The first thing to do is to analyze the nature of the sound and the circumstances of its occurrence. The click may be single and dull, or it may resemble the cracking of plastic and repeat every few minutes. Technical noise and the sound of a malfunction often differs in tone and frequency of repetitions. Understanding the nature of sound is already half the solution to the problem, allowing you to avoid unnecessary expenses on calling a technician.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the possible causes of extraneous sounds, from absolutely normal physical processes to serious malfunctions refrigeration unit. You will learn how to independently carry out primary diagnostics and in which cases the intervention of a specialist is really required.
Natural sounds of refrigeration equipment
Do not forget that a modern refrigerator is a complex mechanism in which physical processes are constantly occurring, accompanied by sounds. The most common cause of clicking is the operation of thermostat or solenoid valve. When the temperature inside the chamber reaches a set value, the thermostat opens the circuit that supplies power to the compressor, which is accompanied by a characteristic sound.
It is also worth considering the thermal expansion of materials. The interior walls of the chamber, the evaporator, and even the shelves are made of plastic or metal, which contract when cooled and expand when heated. This process can cause quiet crackling or clicking noises, especially noticeable immediately after the motor is turned off or, conversely, at the moment it starts.
It is important to distinguish these sounds from a mechanical knock. Natural sounds are usually soft and do not cause chassis vibration. If you hear a sharp metallic clang, this is already a reason for a deeper check.
Problems with the starting relay and compressor
One of the most common technical reasons why clicks in the refrigeratoris a malfunction of the starting relay. This small element is responsible for starting the compressor engine. If the relay is worn out or faulty, it can make loud, frequent clicks, while the compressor itself either does not start at all, or only works for a few seconds and stalls.
Frequent clicks in this case indicate that the relay is trying to start the motor, but cannot do so due to lack of contact or breakdown. As a result, the compressor hums, clicks and is switched off by protection. This condition is dangerous because the engine can overheat and burn out if the malfunction is not corrected in time.
How to check the relay yourself?
To check the relay, you need to disconnect the refrigerator from the network, remove the back cover, carefully remove the relay from the compressor and shake it. If you hear a knock inside (as if from a broken part), then the relay is faulty and requires replacement.
In some cases, the problem may lie in the compressor itself. If the piston group is worn or seized, the sound will be heavier and metallic. However, most often the culprit of the “concert” is starting device, which is a consumable material.
Malfunctions of the thermostat and sensors
The thermostat is the “brain” that controls cycles of on and off. If this element is faulty, it can give false commands, causing the compressor to turn on too often or, conversely, not start on time. In this case, a characteristic click is heard when the contacts inside the regulator open or close.
Modern models with a system No Frost and electronic control use temperature sensors instead of a mechanical thermostat. If the sensor is “lying” or its connection contacts have oxidized, the system can randomly switch operating modes, which is accompanied by a series of clicks. This often happens after power surges.
To diagnose this problem, you will need a multimeter. It is necessary to “ring” the thermostat contacts at different temperatures. If the contact does not disappear when heated or does not appear when cooled, the part must be replaced. This is not the most complicated procedure, but it requires care.
The influence of improper installation and vibration
Sometimes the answer to the question “why does the refrigerator click” lies not in the electrics, but in the physics of the installation. If the refrigerator is not level, vibrations from the operating compressor are transmitted to the cabinet, shelves or nearby objects. This can cause rattling, which is audibly perceived as clicking or knocking.
Particular attention should be paid to the distance to walls and furniture. If the refrigerator is moved too close, vibrations can be transmitted to cabinets or door handles, creating a resonating sound. Also check whether the internal shelves or bottles on the door are touching each other - they can knock when the motor is running.
☑️ Checking the installation of the refrigerator
Improper transportation can also lead to displacement of internal elements. If the compressor springs (transportation bolts) were not secured during transportation, they may dangle and make sounds every time they start. However, in modern models such bolts are rare; more often the problem is solved by simply adjusting the legs.
Defrosting system and extraneous sounds
In refrigerators with an automatic defrosting system, clicks may be associated with the operation of Defrost heating element or the timer. When switching from the cooling mode to the defrosting mode and back, sounds of valve switching (in two-compressor models) or timer clicks may be heard.
If an ice plug has formed in the drainage system, the water may suddenly boil or drain when heated, making sounds similar to clicks or gurgling. This is often accompanied by the formation of a puddle under the refrigerator or the freezing of a “fur coat” in the freezer.
Below is a table that helps classify sounds and their possible sources:
| Sound type | Probable cause | Urgency repair | Can it be used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single dull click | Thermostat operation | Not required | Yes, this is the norm |
| Frequent clicks, the engine does not start | Faulty start relay | High | No, the compressor will burn out |
| Plastic crackling | Thermal expansion | Not required | Yes, this is normal |
| Metallic knocking during operation | Compressor wear | Average | Until complete breakdown |
Diagnostics and troubleshooting methods
If you have determined that that clicks are not normal, it is necessary to begin diagnostics. The first step should always be to completely disconnect the device from the power supply. Safety —above all, any manipulation of live electrical components is prohibited.
Visual inspection of the compressor and relay often reveals the problem. Pay attention to the color of the relay: if it is blackened or has traces of melting, its replacement is inevitable. Also check the integrity of the wires going to the compressor - they should not be frayed or pinched.
⚠️ Attention: If you do not have experience working with electrical appliances and a multimeter, do not try to disassemble the control unit or change the relay yourself. Incorrect installation can result in a short circuit or damage to the compressor.
To replace a relay or thermostat, a screwdriver and a minimum set of tools are often sufficient. However, if the problem lies in the electronic control module or the compressor itself, it is better to entrust the repair to professionals. The cost of replacing a compressor can be up to 70% of the price of a new refrigerator, so accurate diagnosis is critical here.
Is it possible to temporarily remove the relay and start the refrigerator directly?
Theoretically, you can start the motor without a starting relay by applying voltage directly to the working and starting windings, but doing this is strongly not recommended without special knowledge. This can lead to instant burning of the windings.
Prevention and proper care of equipment
To minimize the risk of extraneous noise and extend the life of the refrigerator, it is important to follow the operating rules. Regular defrosting (for drip systems) prevents the formation of excess ice, which can interfere with the operation of fans and dampers.
Keep the condenser (grid at the back of the refrigerator) clean. Dust and pet hair accumulate on the tubes and impair heat transfer. The compressor is forced to work longer and harder, which increases the load on the starting relay and increases the risk of its failure.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install the refrigerator near heating appliances or in direct sunlight. Overheating of the external environment forces the equipment to work at its limit, which accelerates the wear of all components.
It is also worth periodically checking the installation level. Over time, the legs can become loose or sag, especially on soft linoleum. Tightening the adjusting screws will take a couple of minutes, but will save you from unnecessary noise and vibration.
Why does the refrigerator click immediately after defrosting?
After defrosting, the internal elements that were compressed by ice or were at a low temperature begin to heat up. The thermal expansion of plastic and metal at this moment occurs more intensely, so clicks and crackles in the first hours after switching on are a normal physical reaction of materials.
Is it dangerous if a new refrigerator clicks?
In a new refrigerator, clicks are most often caused by adjusting the thermostat or thermal expansion of new materials. If the clicks are not accompanied by a lack of cold, this is normal. Let the equipment “stand” for several hours after delivery before turning it on, so that the oil in the compressor flows into the crankcase.
Is it possible to have a refrigerator if it clicks frequently?
If the clicks are rare (once every 20-40 minutes) and are accompanied by on/off cycles, it is possible. If the clicks are frequent (every 10-30 seconds) and the cold does not build up, operation is prohibited, since this is a “dry running” of the compressor, leading to its combustion.
How much does it cost to replace the start relay?
The cost of the relay itself is usually low (from 500 to 2000 rubles depending on model), however, calling a technician and doing the work may cost more than the part itself. Replacing it yourself saves the budget, but requires minimal technical skills.