Noisy Refrigerator & Not Cooling? Expert Fixes Inside

1. Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils
Dust and debris can gradually build up on the condenser coils, blocking airflow and causing your refrigerator to run harder than necessary to cool properly. This can cause overheating, poor cooling performance and even strange buzzing or rattling noises.

Solution:
-Find your condenser coils (typically located in the back or the bottom of the fridge).
-Using a vacuum or a coil cleaning brush, dust and dirt should be removed every 6–12 months.

2. Defective Evaporator or Condenser Fan Motor
Refrigerators use fans to move air around and control temperature. If the evaporator fan (in the freezer) or the condenser fan (near the compressor) is failing, you may hear loud sounds—such as clicking, buzzing, and grinding. A failing fan can also cause uneven cooling or a warm fridge.

Solution:
-Open the freezer and listen for a sound change with the door open. If it stops, the evaporator fan is probably the problem.
-If the noise is coming from the rear of the fridge, use your vacuum to check the condenser fan for dust or debris that may be blocking it.
-They will likely need repair or replacement from a professional.

3. Compressor Issues:
Your refrigerator’s compressor is its organ — keeping cool. If you hear a loud humming or knocking noise, this is a sign of a faulty compressor. If your fridge is warm while the compressor is running, low refrigerant levels or some other type of major mechanical failure might be the culprits.

Solution:
-There may be clicking sounds, indicating a bad start relay (the part that gets the compressor going).
-Have the compressor inspected by a technician if it is overheating or not running properly.
-Typically, a broken compressor will need to be replaced by professionals.

4. Defective Start Relay or Capacitor
A clicking noise and lack of cooling from your fridge can usually mean a fault in the start relay or capacitor. These parts assist the compressor in starting up, and, if they don’t work, the fridge won’t cool properly.

Solution:
-If you unplug the fridge and listen for a rattling sound, you will be able to hear the start relay to see if it is burnt.
-If it tests bad (as it can sometimes do), a new one will return you to normal cooling behavior.

5. Malfunctioning Defrost System
A fridge has a defrost system to prevent ice from accumulating. The fridge won’t stop making noises and cooling properly when excessive frost blocks airflow if the defrost heater, thermostat, or timer fails.

Solution:
-The first is unplugging the fridge and checking the start relay for burning or rattling sounds.
-Look for frost accumulation inside the freezer.
-If there’s a heavy coat of ice, the defrost system might not be functioning.
-If something is broken with the defrost components, a technician can diagnose and replace them.

6. Water Valve or Ice Maker Problems:
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, a faulty water valve can make a buzzing or humming noise. A blocked water line can also cause your ice maker to fail or leak.

Solution:
-Inspect the water supply connection and check the supply valve for any clogging.
-If it is dirty, clean or replace the water filter.