How to troubleshoot a refrigerator that’s making a loud humming noise?

 

Identify the Source of the Noise

  First, try to locate where the humming noise is coming from in your refrigerator. Possible sources of noise commonly include the refrigerator's compressor, evaporator fan, condenser fan, or ice maker. Open both the refrigerator and freezer sections and see if the noise becomes louder in one specific area.  

Check and Clean the Condenser Coils

  Dirty condenser coils can make your refrigerator's compressor work harder, leading to audible humming or buzzing noises. Dust and debris buildup on these coils can cause the compressor to operate loudly. Here is what you can do:

• Unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet for safety.
• Locate the condenser coils, usually at the back or beneath the refrigerator behind a protective grill.
• Use a condenser coil brush or vacuum cleaner with a suitable attachment to gently clean the coils, removing any accumulated dust, dirt, pet hair, or debris.
• Plug the refrigerator back in, and see if the noise improves after a few hours.

 

Evaluate the Refrigerator's Leveling and Stability

  A refrigerator that is improperly leveled can cause vibrations that appear as loud humming sounds. Here's how you can check and correct leveling:

• Use a bubble or carpenter’s level to check if the refrigerator sits evenly on the floor.
• Adjust the leveling legs at the bottom corners of your refrigerator to ensure the unit is stable and level. This is typically done by rotating adjustable legs located near the floor.
• Ensure the fridge is not shaking or wobbling after adjustment.

 

Inspect the Evaporator Fan Motor

  If the loud humming noise originates from inside your freezer compartment, the evaporator fan motor may be the culprit. Try the following:

• Ensure safety first by unplugging your refrigerator before starting inspections.
• Access the evaporator fan by removing the rear panel inside the freezer section.
• Check if the fan blades are blocked, damaged, or iced up. Clear any obstruction such as ice formation, debris, or frost buildup.
• If the fan spins freely but is still noisy, you may need to replace the evaporator fan motor.

 

Inspect the Condenser Fan Motor

  If you've checked the coils and evaporator fan, it's time to examine the condenser fan motor, usually at the back bottom part of the refrigerator:

• Again, remember to unplug the refrigerator first for safety.
• Locate the condenser fan near the compressor and condenser coils.
• Look for obstructions, debris accumulation, or wear and tear on the blades and motor housing.
• If there is visible damage or if the motor is noisy upon manual spin, it may need replacement.

 

Listen to the Refrigerator's Compressor

  The compressor often makes a normal low-level humming noise during operation; however, loud, persistent humming may suggest compressor strain:

• Carefully listen at the back bottom area of your refrigerator where the compressor typically resides.
• A mild humming sound indicates normal functioning. But, if the compressor noise is significantly louder than usual, it may indicate compressor stress or a faulty compressor.
• In such cases, professional evaluation by a refrigeration technician is recommended.

 

Check for Ice Maker Issues

  If your refrigerator has an ice maker and the loud humming noise originates near it, check:

• Ensure the ice maker is properly connected and installed correctly.
• Verify if the water supply line is kinked or partially closed, causing the solenoid to hum loudly.
• Replace defective ice maker components if necessary.

 

Consult a Qualified Refrigerator Repair Specialist

  If, after inspecting and conducting the steps above, your refrigerator still makes a loud humming noise, it may be best to call a professional refrigerator repair technician. Expert intervention is essential if there seems to be a mechanical issue beyond basic maintenance solutions.

The experts at Hoffmann Brothers help homeowners in St Louis and Nashville diagnose and properly repair refrigerators, ensuring reliability and quiet operation. Timely professional assessment can help prevent expensive breakdowns and extend the lifespan of the appliance.