The situation when a loud bang is suddenly heard in a working one refrigerator or a crackling sound similar to a gunshot can scare any equipment owner. Most often, this frightening sound does not indicate a disaster, but is the result of natural physical processes occurring inside the chambers.
However, such signals cannot be ignored, since regular “explosions” may indicate wear of parts or a violation of the tightness of the system. In this article, we will analyze in detail which components produce such sounds, and will help to distinguish the norm from a critical malfunction.
First, we will consider the most common and safe reasons associated with the thermal expansion of materials and the operation of the No Frost system. Understanding these processes will help you stop being afraid of your equipment and respond correctly to it.
Thermal expansion of case and shelf materials
The most common reason that something cracks or pops is the physical property of materials to shrink when cooled and expand when heated. The plastic of the internal walls, glass shelves and metal structural elements have different coefficients of thermal expansion. refrigerator compartment something cracking or popping is the physical property of materials to contract when cooled and expand when heated. The plastic of the internal walls, glass shelves and metal structural elements have different coefficients of thermal expansion.
When the compressor reaches the desired temperature and turns off, or vice versa, starts up after being idle, a sharp temperature difference occurs. At this moment, the materials “walk”, emitting characteristic clicks, which sound like gunshots in the confined space of the camera. This is especially true for models with plastic inner lining.
Often the source of sound is glass shelves that lie on plastic or metal guides. When the temperature changes, the glass may shift slightly, creating a loud ringing or cracking sound. This is absolutely normal for new equipment or after loading a large amount of warm products.
- 🔊 A loud crash occurs precisely when the motor is turned on or off.
- 🌡️ The sounds are more often heard in the summer, when the difference between the temperature in the room and inside the chamber is maximum.
- 🥛 The load on the shelves affects sound: a full shelf may “shoot” differently than an empty one.
⚠️ Attention: If the cracking sound is accompanied by vibration of the case, check whether the refrigerator is level. Incorrect installation increases resonance and makes the natural sounds of expansion of materials unbearably loud.
To reduce the intensity of such sounds, you can lubricate the contact points between the shelves and the guides with silicone grease. It is also worth making sure that the products do not touch the back wall of the chamber, since it is also subject to temperature deformation and can transmit sound.
Noises of the No Frost system and evaporator defrosting
Owners of modern models with the system No Frost often encounter strange sounds that may resemble explosions or crackling sounds. This is due to the operation of the automatic defrosting system, which periodically turns on to remove ice from the evaporator.
During the defrosting process, the heating element heats the ice, turning it into water. The ice crust that builds up on the evaporator tubes can crack and break off with a loud sound when suddenly heated. Falling pieces of ice onto a metal tray also create an impact effect.
In addition, such refrigerators have a fan that circulates cold air. If ice forms on the fan blades, it can brush against the frame, creating an intermittent noise that comes and goes. This is often perceived as an incomprehensible humming or crackling.
It is important to distinguish between the normal sound of dripping water and mechanical knocking. If the sound is similar to the operation of a typewriter or the crackle of breaking ice, this is normal operation defrost system. If you hear metal grinding on metal, the fan may need to be cleaned.
Problems with the compressor and start relay
The most alarming signal is loud popping noises coming directly from the motor-compressor located in the lower rear part of the unit. Unlike ice cracking, these sounds may indicate mechanical failure or electrical problems.
One common cause is a faulty start relay. This small element is responsible for starting the engine. If it is worn out, the contacts inside may spark and close with a characteristic click, after which the compressor either will not start or will immediately turn off.
Another option is water hammer in the compressor. This happens if liquid refrigerant (freon) along with oil enters the compressor cylinder instead of the gaseous phase. The liquid is incompressible, and the piston, hitting it, makes a loud knock, similar to a gunshot. This is a critical situation that requires immediate intervention.
| Sound type | Probable cause | Danger | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single clap | Thermal expansion | Safe | Observation |
| Series of clicks and silence | Relay fault | High | Call a technician |
| Loud metal knock | Water hammer of the compressor | Critical | Turn off and call |
| Ice cracking | Operation No Frost | Safe | Check the drainage |
⚠️ Attention: If after a loud bang the refrigerator stops freezing, and the motor hums, but does not start, or vice versa - there is silence, immediately unplug the appliance. Further work may finally “kill” the compressor.
Explosive situations and refrigerant ignition
Although the phrase “something explodes in the refrigerator” is often metaphorical, there are rare but real cases of ignition. Modern environmentally friendly refrigerants, such as isobutane (R600a) and propane (R290)are flammable gases.
Itself freon does not explode in a closed system. The danger arises only if there are two factors: a gas leak from the system and the presence of a spark source in the immediate vicinity. The concentration of the gas must reach a certain limit in a confined space.
The source of ignition can be a spark from the thermostat, starting relay, or even static electricity if handled carelessly. That is why on the back wall of modern refrigerators you can see warning stickers about the fire hazard of the refrigerant.
What to do if you smell gas?
If you smell gas (often it has a specific aroma, since odorants are added to it to detect leaks), immediately open the windows for ventilation. Do not turn on the lights or use electrical appliances to avoid causing a spark. Turn off the gas supply, if possible, and call emergency services.
Fortunately, the amount of freon in a household refrigerator is small (usually less than 100 grams), so there is no powerful explosion that destroys the walls. However, the cotton may be sufficient to break glass or damage internal plastic elements.
Foreign objects and products as a source of noise
Sometimes the cause of “explosions” is trivial and lies in the contents of the cameras. Glass bottles touching each other when the compressor vibrates can produce a ringing sound that sounds louder in the echo chamber of the refrigerator. Egg trays or plastic containers can also be a source of noise.
Particular attention should be paid to products in sealed packaging. If you put a tightly closed glass jar with hot contents or soda into the chamber, during sudden cooling the glass may burst and the lid of the jar may “shoot” due to the pressure difference.
Ice plugs in the freezer can also create noise. When defrosting or changing the operating mode, large pieces of ice may suddenly fall onto metal shelves or trays, creating a sound similar to a falling hammer.
- 🍾 Carbonated drinks expand when freezing and can burst the container.
- 🥚 When exposed to strong cooling, plastic trays become brittle and crack.
- 🧊 Icicles hanging from the freezer ceiling make a loud impact sound when they fall.
To avoid such situations, do not place open containers with liquids and liquids in the refrigerator Check the integrity of glass containers before use. Regular defrosting of the freezer will prevent the formation of large icicles.
Diagnostics and algorithm of actions for strange sounds
If you hear a suspicious sound, do not panic. First try to localize the source of the noise. Place your hand on the back wall, then on the side walls, listen to where the vibration is coming from. refrigerator suspicious sound, don't panic. First try to localize the source of the noise. Place your hand on the back wall, then on the side walls, listen to where the vibration comes from.
Check if the refrigerator is not too close to the wall or furniture. The gap at the back should be at least 5-10 cm for normal air circulation. If the refrigerator is standing crookedly, adjust the legs so that the body is stable.
If the sounds are repeated frequently and are accompanied by loss of cold, it is necessary to conduct a more in-depth diagnosis. In this case, the initial checklist will help.
☑️ Primary diagnosis of noise
Study the instructions for your model LG, Bosch, Samsung or another brand - perhaps the described sounds are indicated as normal.
When it is necessary to call a technician
There are a number of signs in which independent actions can be dangerous or useless. If “explosions” in the refrigerator are regular and accompanied by other symptoms, you cannot hesitate.
A technician is needed if after the bang the refrigerator stops turning on, if the emergency temperature indicator is on, or if you smell a burning or chemical smell. Help is also needed if the compressor works without stopping, trying to gain temperature.
Repairing the No Frost system or replacing the compressor requires special tools and knowledge. Trying to disassemble the back panel yourself or touch the freon tubes can lead to injury or permanent breakdown of the unit.
⚠️ Attention: Never try to solder the tubes or change the compressor yourself if you do not have a license to work with freon. This is not only technically difficult, but also dangerous to health due to possible chemical reactions.
A timely call to a specialist will help preserve products and avoid costly repairs. Remember that prevention is always cheaper than replacing the main components of the refrigerator.
Prevention of noisy operation of the refrigerator
To minimize the likelihood of frightening sounds in the future, monitor the condition of the door seals. If the rubber has dried out and does not fit tightly, warm, moist air enters the chamber, which leads to increased ice formation and noisier operation of the defrost system.
Regularly wash the drainage hole in the refrigerator compartment. A clogged drain leads to the accumulation of water, which freezes and, when defrosted, creates additional noise and ice jams. You can clean it with a regular cotton swab or soft wire.
Do not overload the shelves and ensure the even distribution of products. This will reduce the load on the structure and reduce the likelihood of rattling and moving objects during operation of the vibration compressor.
Can an old Soviet refrigerator explode?
The probability of an explosion of an old refrigerator is extremely low. They used non-flammable freons (R12), which do not explode. Noises in them are more often associated with wear and tear on the mechanical parts of the compressor or rattling of the housing.
Why does the refrigerator fire only at night?
At night, the overall noise level in the apartment decreases, and you begin to notice sounds that were inaudible during the day. In addition, at night, on/off cycles, accompanied by thermal expansion, occur more often.
Is it dangerous to use a refrigerator that makes popping noises?
If these are the sounds of ice or plastic expansion, it is not dangerous. If the popping noise comes from the motor and is accompanied by sparking or an odor, use is dangerous and can lead to a fire.
What to do if there is a bang in the refrigerator and the light goes out?
Most likely, the light bulb has burned out or there has been a short circuit in the lighting circuit. Check the integrity of the socket and replace the lamp. If the problem is in the wiring, repair of the electrical part will be required.
Is it possible to ignore a crackling sound in a new refrigerator?
In the first months of operation, a new refrigerator may “grind in.” If the cracking does not intensify and the cold persists, you can observe. But it’s worth reporting the sound to the service center at the first opportunity.