Is your refrigerator making a loud humming noise? If yes, then it is an indication that there is a problem that needs to be addressed. A refrigerator is an essential appliance in any home or workplace, and a loud humming noise can be a significant inconvenience. In this post, we will discuss the reasons why your refrigerator could be making a loud humming noise and provide you with tips on how to eliminate the noise. We will also look at the alternatives available if the tips do not work. So let's get started!
- Faulty compressor: A compressor is responsible for pumping refrigerant throughout the refrigerator's cooling system. If the compressor is malfunctioning, it could cause a loud humming noise.
- Defective evaporator fan motor: The evaporator fan motor circulates cold air from the freezer into the refrigerator. If the motor is defective or faulty, it could cause a loud humming noise.
- Dirty condenser coils: Dirty condenser coils are one of the most common causes of a loud humming noise. The coils can get clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, which can cause the compressor to work harder than necessary and create a loud humming noise.
- Blocked air ducts: The air ducts in your refrigerator are responsible for circulating cold air throughout the unit. If they are blocked or clogged, it could cause a loud humming noise.
- Worn-out compressor mounts: Compressor mounts are responsible for keeping the compressor in place. If they are worn out or damaged, it could cause the compressor to vibrate and create a loud humming noise.
Now that we know the possible reasons for a loud humming noise from a refrigerator let's take a look at some tips on how to eliminate the noise:
- Inspect and clean the condenser coils: Unplug the refrigerator and locate the condenser coils (usually found at the back of the fridge). Use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to clean the coils and remove any dust or debris that might clog the coils.
- Clear away any blockages in the air ducts: Check the air ducts to see if they are blocked or clogged. Use a soft cloth or a brush to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. Make sure the air can circulate freely.
- Check compressor mounts for wear and tear: Examine the compressor mounts to see if they are worn out or damaged. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, consider replacing them.
- Lubricate the evaporator fan motor: Remove the evaporator fan motor cover and apply a few drops of oil to the motor bearings. This will help reduce friction and eliminate the humming noise.
- Switch off the refrigerator and restart it in a few minutes: Turn off the refrigerator, unplug it from the electric outlet, and wait for a few minutes. Then, plug it back in, and turn it on. This could help eliminate the humming noise.
If the tips above do not work, consider calling a professional or replacing the defective parts.
If the tips mentioned earlier do not work or if the refrigerator is too old, there are some alternatives to consider:
- Call a professional: A professional appliance repair technician can diagnose and fix the problem quickly and effectively. They have the necessary tools and experience to handle any issues and can repair the refrigerator in no time.
- Replace the defective parts: If the problem is due to faulty components such as the compressor or the evaporator fan motor, they might need to be replaced. While it might seem expensive, this could be a worthwhile investment if it extends the life of the refrigerator and ensures it is running efficiently.
- Consider buying a new refrigerator: If the refrigerator is old and has been repaired frequently, it might be time to consider buying a new one. Modern refrigerators are more energy-efficient and have advanced features that can save you money in the long run.
Whatever alternative you choose, make sure to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
Related: Whirlpool Ice Maker Water Level Adjustment: How to Get Perfectly-formed Ice Every Time!
FAQ
What causes a refrigerator to make a loud humming noise?
Common causes include a faulty compressor, defective evaporator fan motor, dirty condenser coils, blocked air ducts, and worn-out compressor mounts.
How can I eliminate the loud humming noise from my refrigerator?
You can inspect and clean the condenser coils, clear away any blockages in the air ducts, check compressor mounts for wear and tear, lubricate the evaporator fan motor, and switch off the refrigerator before restarting it in a few minutes.
Can I repair the defective parts of my refrigerator myself?
It might be best to leave the repair of defective parts to professionals if you are not familiar with appliance repairs.
What is the compressor in a refrigerator?
The compressor is the heart of a refrigerator's cooling system. It compresses the refrigerant, which then cools the air inside the fridge.
Why is it important to address a loud humming noise from my fridge promptly?
Ignoring unusual noises coming from your fridge could lead to more serious and costly problems if not resolved in time.
Can a dirty condenser coil cause a loud humming noise in my refrigerator?
Yes, dirty condenser coils can cause a loud humming noise in your fridge, which can be eliminated by regular cleaning.
How often should I clean the condenser coils in my refrigerator?
It is recommended to clean the condenser coils of your refrigerator at least twice a year to ensure optimal performance.
Should I switch off my refrigerator before attempting any repair?
Yes, it is recommended to switch off your refrigerator before attempting to repair or maintain it.
Can a worn-out compressor mount cause a loud humming noise in my fridge?
Yes, worn-out compressor mounts can cause a loud humming noise as the compressor vibrates more than usual.
What should I do if none of the tips mentioned works?
If none of the tips mentioned works, contact a professional for repair or replacement of defective parts.
Real experience
Mrs. Johnson was restlessly trying to sleep, but she couldn't because of the loud humming noise that was coming from her kitchen. The noise was so loud that it seemed like a swarm of bees had taken over her refrigerator. She went to the kitchen to investigate what could be the cause. However, on reaching the kitchen, she only found an old, refridgerator that was humming for no apparent reason.
Every time she opened the refrigerator door, the humming noise would stop, and Mrs. Johnson assumed it was normal. However, the noise continued for days, and Mrs. Johnson was disturbed by it. One night, she decided to investigate further, and she discovered that the refrigerator's compressor was making the noise. The compressor was struggling to keep up with the pressure of running the refrigerator's cooling system, and this was causing it to hum loudly.
Determined to fix the problem, Mrs. Johnson tried clearing the area around the refrigerator and even cleaned its coils, hoping that it was just dirty coils that were causing the noise. However, the humming noise persisted, and it was starting to drive her insane.
Finally, Mrs. Johnson decided to call a refrigerator repair technician who arrived the next day. After assessing the refrigerator, the technician determined that the compressor was faulty and needed a replacement. Mrs. Johnson was thankful that she had made the call and that the repair was done swiftly.
After the repair, there was no more humming noise from the refrigerator, and Mrs. Johnson finally slept soundly again. She was glad she had attended to the problem swiftly and was now able to enjoy her quiet and restful nights.
Based on: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mains_hum
A loud humming noise from a refrigerator can be frustrating and disruptive. However, it is crucial to address the problem promptly to avoid more significant issues. We talked about the possible reasons for such noises and shared some tips on how to eliminate them, such as cleaning the condenser coils, checking for blockages, and lubricating the evaporator fan motor. If these tips do not work or if the refrigerator is old and needs frequent repairs, consider calling a professional, replacing defective parts, or buying a new refrigerator. In any case, remember to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision. We hope this post was helpful in fixing your refrigerator's loud humming noise. Thanks for reading!
