How To Fix A Noisy Refrigerator

Most modern frost-free refrigerators will have a fan cooled condenser coil. This normally located near the compressor at the bottom rear of the refrigerator. The condenser fan circulates air through the condenser coil to remove heat as well as circulating air over the drain pan to evaporate the defrost water. If your fridge is making a loud noise, the condenser fan motor could be to blame. The condenser fan motor runs at the same time as the evaporator motor and the compressor. In addition to noise, your fridge might not be staying as cool as normal and/or may be turning on and off regularly.

To inspect the fan, first disconnect the power and then remove the rear access panel. Look for any debris or an obstruction that might be preventing the fan from moving freely. This area needs to be kept free of obstructions so that air can move freely and should be vacuumed on a regular basis. If the fan motor is seized or visibly worn, or if the fan blade is damaged they will need to be replaced. Also check the rubber mounting grommets for signs of wear.

The evaporator fan motor is located in the freezer compartment and is responsible for pulling air over the evaporator coils when the compressor is running. If you’re refrigerator is making a loud noise that appears to be coming from the freezer area, a faulty evaporator fan motor could be to blame. You may also notice that your refrigerator is not staying as cold as normal, or your ice is taking longer to freeze. To inspect the evaporator fan and motor, you will need to unplug your refrigerator and remove the evaporator fan cover. If there is ice or frost causing the noise then you will need to look for a defrost problem as the cause. If the fan blade has become loose or damaged, or if the motor shaft does not turn freely, then they will need to be replaced. You can temporarily reconnect the power to help isolate the noise but caution should be used around live circuits and should only be performed by qualified persons.

The evaporator fan motor grommet is used to isolate the motor from the mounting bracket and reduce vibration noise. Regular wear and tear can cause the grommets to wear or become detached, which can increase vibration and cause excess noise. You will need to access the evaporator fan to confirm whether or not a grommet is responsible. Power should be removed from the appliance for this check.