The appearance of extraneous sounds in the operation of household appliances technology always causes concern, especially when it comes to refrigeration equipmentwhich operates around the clock. The situation when clicking noises are heard during operation of the refrigerator is one of the most common complaints from owners. These sounds can be barely audible or sound like loud knocking that disturbs the silence in the apartment, especially at night. It is important to understand that clicks do not always indicate a breakdown: in some cases, this is a normal sound of switching operating modes of the compressor.
However, changes in the acoustic background cannot be ignored. Constant crackling or periodic loud knocks may indicate wear on the trigger mechanism parts, problems with the compressor fastening, or even for a malfunction in the electrical circuit. In this article, we will analyze in detail the physics of the occurrence of these sounds, learn to distinguish normal modes from emergency ones, and determine when a technician’s intervention is required, and when you can get by with self-adjustment.
The first thing you need to do when you hear a click is to determine the moment of its appearance. Does the sound occur when the engine starts, while it is running, or when it turns off? Often character of the sound directly points to a node that requires attention. For example, a quiet clicking noise may be due to the expansion of the plastic housing, while a loud clanging noise may be due to the blowing of the internal compressor tubes. Understanding these nuances will help you make the right decision about further actions.
⚠️ Attention: If clicks are accompanied by a lack of cold in the chambers, blinking indicators or the appearance of a burning smell, immediately unplug the device from the power supply. Operation of faulty equipment can lead to a wiring fire or complete failure of an expensive compressor.
Physiology of sound: how a compressor works
To understand the nature of the clicks, you need to look inside the “heart” of the refrigerator - the compressor. This is an electric motor that forces refrigerant through a system of pipes. Modern models such as Liebherr or Boschoften use inverter systems that operate more smoothly, but classic linear compressors are still common. It is in them that the characteristic switching sounds are most often heard.
The main source of the click is starting relay. This device is responsible for supplying voltage to the motor windings at the time of starting. When the thermostat or electronic module commands to turn on, the relay operates, completing the circuit. This process is physically accompanied by a mechanical click. When in good condition, it is quiet and can only be heard in silence. However, if the mechanism is worn out, the sound becomes louder and more distinct.
It is also worth considering the thermal expansion of materials. The refrigerator body and internal plastic panels are constantly exposed to temperature changes. When cooled, plastic contracts; when heated, it expands. These micro-movements can cause a popping noise that users often confuse with mechanical clicks. Typically, such sounds do not pose a threat and stop after the temperature inside the chambers has stabilized.
Basic reasons for clicks when starting and stopping
The most common situation is that a click is heard when the refrigerator is turned on. This is normal operation of the start-up relay. However, if the sound becomes harsh, metallic, or is accompanied by an attempt to start, which immediately breaks off, this is a signal of a problem. Starting device It may be dirty or have burnt contacts, which requires its replacement.
The second option is clicking when the compressor stops. At this moment, the pressure in the system is equalized, and the relay also operates, opening the circuit. If the refrigerator is old, the sound may be loud due to the compressor itself being loose or vibrating tubes. In models with the system No Frost additional clicks may be produced by the cold air damper if its drive begins to jam.
There is also the concept of “hydraulic hammer” in the system, although it is less common. If the freon has not completely evaporated and enters the compressor in liquid form, a dull knock may be heard. This often occurs during improper transportation or after defrosting. In such cases diagnosis by a specialist is mandatory, since liquid shock can destroy the valves of the piston group.
- 🔊 Loud clanging at start - a sign of a faulty start relay or sticking of the piston group.
- 🔊 Series of quick clicks —an automatic attempt to start the engine when the sensor is faulty or low voltage in the network.
- 🔊 Quiet single click —normal operation of the thermostat or starter in a working device.
Problems with start relay and thermostat
The start relay is a small block, often black, mounted on the side of the compressor. Inside it there is a coil and a movable core. Over time, the contacts may oxidize and the spring may lose elasticity. This causes the relay to "crack" or make repeated clicking noises as it tries to maintain contact. Visually, there should be no traces of burning or plastic melting on the body of a serviceable relay.
The thermostat (thermostat) also makes sounds. This is a mechanical device, inside of which there is a bellows filled with freon gas. When the temperature changes, the gas expands or contracts, moving the membrane, which opens or closes the contacts. The thermostat click is the sound of these contacts opening. If the clicks become too frequent, it may The thermostat has lost calibration and requires replacement or adjustment.
In modern electronically controlled refrigerators, the role of a thermostat is performed by a temperature sensor, and the function of a relay is performed by solid-state components on the board. However, clicks may also occur here if the electromagnetic relay on the control board fails. In this case, the sound may not come from the compressor, but from the top of the refrigerator, where the control unit is located control unit.
How to check the relay yourself?
Carefully remove the back cover (after disconnecting the refrigerator from the mains). Find the black box on the compressor. Take it off. Shake: if a ringing or knocking sound is heard inside (as if from a broken stone), it means that the starting tablet or coil is damaged - replacement is required.
Mechanical reasons: vibration and fastenings
The source of the sound does not always lie in the electrics. The compressor vibrates during operation. If the position of the refrigerator on the floor is disturbed or the mounting bolts of the motor itself are loosened, vibration is transmitted to the body and tubes. Tubes in contact with each other or with the walls of the cabinet can make a characteristic clicking sound. This is especially true for older brand models Indesit i Atlant.
Check the legs of the refrigerator. They must be unscrewed so that the body is stable and has a slight tilt back. This is necessary for the doors to close properly and reduce vibration. If one of the legs does not touch the floor or, conversely, the refrigerator is skewed, compressor shock absorbers they work with overload, which increases noise and clicks.
It is also worth inspecting the space around the compressor. Sometimes foreign objects can get there and, when vibrating, begin to rattle or hit metal parts. Even a small piece of insulation or a forgotten tool can become a source of annoying sound, which is mistaken for a breakdown of the unit.
| Sound type | Probable cause | Need for repair |
|---|---|---|
| Single click when starting/stopping | Normal operation of the relay | Not required |
| Frequent crackling noise without starting the engine | Malfunction of the starting relay | Replacing the relay |
| Metal clanging inside | Touching tubes or parts | Position adjustment |
| Humming with periodic clicks | Starting attempt (wedge) | Urgent call for a technician |
Diagnostics of faults with your own by hand
Before calling a technician, you can carry out an initial diagnosis. It will help save time and more accurately describe the problem to a specialist. Start with visual inspection and listening. Determine where exactly the sound is coming from: from below (compressor), from behind (relay) or from inside the chamber (dampers, ice).
Check the voltage in the network. Low voltage often results in the compressor not being able to start the first time. The start relay clicks, trying to turn on the engine, but due to lack of power, the engine only hums, and then the relay opens the circuit again. This cycle can be repeated several times. Installing voltage stabilizer may solve the problem.
If you have minimal technical skills, you can check the starting relay. It is easily removed (usually held on by a bracket or latches). Shake it: if there is something loose inside, the part is faulty. You can also test the contacts with a multimeter, but this requires skills in working with electrical appliances. Remember about safety precautions: any work inside the case is carried out only after complete shutdown from the power supply.
☑️ Initial check algorithm
When you need to call a specialist
There are situations when independent actions can only do harm. If after the click the compressor hums for several seconds, and then the click is heard again and the motor stops, this is a sign of a “wedge” of the compressor or a deep malfunction of the starting system. Prolonged starting attempts can lead to burnt out motor windings. In this case, professional repair is required.
A specialist is also needed if the clicks are accompanied by a lack of cold. This may indicate a freon leak or a clogged capillary system. In such cases, the compressor may run continuously or switch on and off frequently, making characteristic sounds. It is impossible to refill the system or remove the blockage without special equipment If your refrigerator is under warranty, any opening of the case or removal of seals from the compressor will lead to loss of warranty. In this case, even if the relay is obviously broken, it is better to immediately contact an authorized service center of the brand, be it.
If your refrigerator is under warranty, any opening of the case or removal of seals from the compressor will void the warranty. In this case, even if the relay is obviously broken, it is better to immediately contact an authorized service center of the brand, be it LG, Samsung or Beko.
⚠️ Attention: Do not try to jam the relay contacts or short-circuit the circuit in order to “revive” the refrigerator. This may result in a short circuit, fire or electric shock. Repairs to the electrical part must be carried out by a qualified electrician.
Prevention and care of the cooling system
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 ice build-up, which can interfere with the operation of the dampers and create unnecessary stress on the system. For models No Frost it is important to keep the drainage holes clean.
Keep an eye on the gap between the back wall of the refrigerator and the wall of the room. Insufficient ventilation causes the compressor to overheat. An overheated motor operates under increased load, which increases vibration and wear of the starting elements. The optimal distance should be at least 5-10 cm.
Periodically check the tightness of the door seals. If the door does not close tightly, warm air enters the chamber and the compressor is forced to turn on more often. Frequent on-off cycles increase the number of relay clicks and accelerate equipment wear. Timely replacement of the seal is simple prevention serious problems.
Is it normal if the refrigerator clicks immediately after being plugged in?
Yes, this is absolutely normal. When first turned on, the thermostat is in the "on" position and the relay immediately activates, starting the compressor. You hear the characteristic click of contacts closing. If after this the even hum of the motor begins, the equipment is in good working order.
Why does an old refrigerator click louder than a new one?
With age, the plastic of the case becomes harder and more fragile, and the compressor mounts dry out. The start relay also wears out and the gap between the contacts increases, which makes the spark and mechanical shock louder when closing. This is a natural process of aging equipment.
Can an inverter refrigerator click?
Inverter compressors operate smoothly and do not have a classic starting relay with a loud click. However, solenoid valves or system dampers may click in them. If the inverter makes loud clicking noises, this often indicates a fault with the control board or the compressor itself. No Frost. If the inverter makes a loud clicking noise, this often indicates a problem with the control board or the compressor itself.
Is it dangerous if the clicking sounds are accompanied by an odor?
Yes, it is dangerous. A plastic or burning smell indicates overheating of the wiring, melting of the insulation, or burning of the contacts in the start relay. It is necessary to immediately turn off the power to the appliance and call a technician to replace the burnt out elements to avoid a fire.