A refrigerator making loud noise can disrupt your home and signal underlying issues like a failing compressor or blocked vents that can leave your food at risk of spoiling if it fails completely. Ignoring these sounds only worsens the situation, but even then, how can refrigerator owners determine what a sound means? With our help, you can.
Our blog will guide you through five common refrigerator noises you should never ignore and show practical steps to address them. We’ll help you decide if professional repair or when a new fridge is the best solution for your situation (and which models pass our performance test).
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Shop In-Stock Refrigerators5 Refrigerator Noises That Shouldn’t Be Ignored
If you’re asking, “Why is my refrigerator making noise?”, you can typically narrow the source down to five reasons. Here’s our refrigerator diagnosis of whether a refrigerator noise means a quick fix or a total replacement.
Refrigerator Buzzing
Hearing a refrigerator making buzzing noise can be unsettling, especially if it wasn’t there before. A steady buzz can be linked to parts working harder than they should, like fans or mechanical components. While the sound might seem minor, refrigerator loud buzzing noises can sometimes signal performance issues. In many cases, the noise doesn’t stop on its own, so it's important to pay attention early.
Why is my refrigerator buzzing?
A fridge buzzes sometimes signal something isn’t working internally as it should. While some buzzing is normal during operation, persistent or growing sounds can point to problems that need attention. Below are some of the most common causes to help you fix the issue.
✅Dust buildup on the condenser coils is forcing the fridge to work harder.
✅A faulty evaporator fan motor is causing a loud buzzing during cooling cycles.
✅Loose or vibrating components inside the compressor are rattling.
✅Ice buildup around the fan is creating a buzzing as the blades hit frozen spots.
The cost for a technician to perform a diagnosis and complete necessary repairs ranges from $150 to $400. However, this will depend on the part that needs service.
Refrigerator Squeaking
A refrigerator making squeaking noises is normally part of normal wear and tear. Squeaks can come from moving parts that aren’t running smoothly, such as hinges, wheels, or internal fans. While a light squeak may not interfere with cooling right away, ignoring it could allow small issues to grow into bigger problems. In many homes, a refrigerator squeaking is an early warning that some component needs attention before it leads to more costly repairs.
Why is my refrigerator squeaking?
Squeaky refrigerators are the result of various factors. Here’s a quick list showing common reasons for squeaking and where to focus your attention.
✅Dry or worn door hinges create friction when opening and closing.
✅Roller wheels underneath the fridge are catching dirt or wearing out.
✅Evaporator or condenser fan blades are rubbing against an obstruction.
✅Internal components are showing signs of mechanical stress.
Professional service for this type of refrigerator troubleshooting runs between $120 and $350, depending on whether the repair involves lubrication, fan replacement, or hinge adjustments.
Refrigerator Rattling
A refrigerator making rattling noise usually points to something loose, either inside the unit or around it, such as panels, fans, or even items placed on top of the fridge. Light vibrations are typically harmless, but persistent shaking should not be overlooked. In certain cases, a refrigerator making loud noise is the first sign of a part wearing down, which can eventually affect cooling performance if left unchecked.
Why is my refrigerator making a rattling noise?
When you hear a refrigerator making a rattling sound, it usually means something inside or underneath the unit is loose or vibrating against another surface. Rattles may start small but can grow louder as parts wear out, so it’s best to address the source quickly before it causes further issues. Here are possible causes:
✅Loose condenser fan blades are vibrating during operation.
✅Items placed on top of the fridge are shifting as the compressor runs.
✅Water lines or drain pans are shaking against the frame.
✅Compressor mounting brackets are becoming worn or unstable.
On average, diagnosing and repairing rattling issues costs between $100 and $300. It will depend on whether it’s a simple adjustment or replacement of a fan or bracket.
Refrigerator Knocking
If you find yourself asking, “Why does my refrigerator make a knocking sound?”, you’re probably dealing with a common issue among older models. Knocks can be linked to moving fans or compressors adjusting to demand, though loose components can create the same effect.
While not every sound points to failure, a refrigerator making loud noise that sounds like knocking should never be brushed off. It's usually a warning that something is out of balance, and addressing it early helps avoid more expensive repairs later on.
Why is my refrigerator knocking?
Hearing a refrigerator making knocking noise typically points to problems that are mechanical in nature and specific parts that are under stress. These are a few common reasons your fridge may knocking.
✅Ice maker parts are shifting or resetting during the fill cycle.
✅Refrigerant lines are contracting as temperatures change.
✅Loose compressor springs are making contact with their surroundings during operation.
✅Evaporator fan blades are striking ice or debris inside the compartment.
Repairing knocking can cost between $140 and $350 to diagnose and prepare. Prices depend on whether an evaporator fan needs to be replaced vs adjusted or whether it’s a simple matter of adjusting parts yourself.
Refrigerator Clicking
A refrigerator clicking noise is usually a normal refrigerator noise. In many cases, the sound relates to electrical components, such as relays or the compressor starting up. However, repeated or loud clicking usually can be an indicator of wear or malfunction.
While the fridge may still run, ignoring these sounds runs the risk of bigger problems down the road.
Why is my refrigerator clicking?
If you hear your refrigerator making a clicking sound, it points to an electrical or mechanical part struggling to function correctly. Unlike a brief startup noise, repeated clicking is usually a sign of stress in the system. Below are four common refrigerator issues that could be responsible for the clicking you hear.
✅A start relay attempting to power the compressor but failing to maintain contact.
✅The defrost timer is engaging and disengaging more frequently than normal.
✅The condenser fan motor is seizing up and producing a steady click as it tries to turn.
✅Ice maker cycling improperly, with parts snapping back into place.
The average cost for diagnosing and repairing a clicking issue ranges between $130 and $400. This average cost will depend on whether the fix requires a small part replacement or major electrical work.
How to Decide to Repair vs Replace a Refrigerator
If your refrigerator making loud noise involves costly components like the compressor, condenser, or evaporator, replacement may be more practical, especially for older units. Minor issues like fan or hinge problems are easier and cheaper to fix. Consider the fridge’s age (most refrigerators give out after 10 years), energy efficiency, and overall condition when deciding between repair and replacement to ensure long-term reliability and savings.
For Refrigerator Repair Pittsburgh Counts on Don’s
For homeowners needing reliable service, Don’s provides trusted Pittsburgh refrigerator repair for fridges of all makes and models. Our technicians handle everything from minor fixes to major component replacements, so your appliance runs efficiently. Residents in Morgantown, West Virginia, can also rely on Don’s for fast, professional appliance repair services.
Shop Reliable Refrigerators
Looking for a reliable refrigerator that will last for years to come? Don's has a variety of fridges from high-end brands.
Sub-Zero® Classic Series 42 in. 24.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Sub-Zero Refrigerator
This Sub-Zero French door refrigerator has a sleek stainless steel finish with intelligent cooling to keep food fresher longer, while the ClearSight LED lighting ensures every corner is fully visible. The internal water dispenser and on-demand ice features add convenience without interrupting the refined interior, and smart Wi-Fi controls give you remote management.
Even with all these high-end functions, the refrigerator runs quietly, avoiding issues like a refrigerator making loud noise, and it comes with industry-leading warranties for lasting reliability. Coupled with a refrigerator lifespan of 20 years, this model was made for durability.
Thermador® Freedom® Professional 36 in. 18.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Thermador Refrigerator
With Thermador’s French door design, you get professional-grade stainless steel with customizable storage, including the ThermaFlex Drawer for variable temperature control. Built-in cameras, Wi-Fi connectivity, and LED theater lighting make inventory management and visibility effortless, while SoftClose doors and drawers keep the experience quiet and smooth. Even with its advanced features, the fridge is silent and gives you reliable, premium performance with style.
Maytag® 30 in. 19.7 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
This stunning Maytag fridge features a Wide-N-Fresh deli drawer and FreshLock crispers to keep large platters and produce perfectly chilled. BrightSeries LED lighting illuminates every corner, and the fingerprint-resistant stainless steel maintains a clean, polished look. During heavy use the fridge remains silent to give you reliable, quiet performance backed by a 10-year compressor warranty.
⭐Featured Maytag MFW2055FRZ Review:
“Fits perfect and very efficient space inside. I am a little on the shorter side and can reach everything easily! Love this! Never owned a Maytag before, but won’t hesitate to purchase other Maytag appliances!”
KitchenAid® 36 in. 19.4 Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This KitchenAid Refrigerator
KitchenAid elevates your kitchen with a 4-door fridge design that’s made for practicality. It features sliding storage trays and a Custom Freeze Zone for precise temperature control and organized storage. The PrintShield stainless steel finish keeps the exterior free of smudges, while the platinum-colored interior, tinted glass drawers, and LED lighting make it easy to see and access every item. A counter-depth design and recessed handles create a seamless, built-in look that blends sophistication with practical functionality.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KRQC506MPS Review:
“So quiet! Perfect size and configuration for a couple.”
Bosch® 800 Series 36 in. 20.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
The Bosch B36CL80SNS delivers advanced refrigeration with dual compressors and VitaFresh technology, to keep food fresh up to three times longer prevent odor transfer between fridge and freezer. The Home Connect app puts temperature control and diagnostics right in your hand with remote management for added peace of mind. Sleek stainless steel, organized freezer drawers, and a true counter-depth design blend functionality with a polished, built-in look.
Frigidaire Professional® 36 in. 21.4 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof® Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Frigidaire Professional Refrigerator
Storage and accessibility are standout features for this Frigidaire counter-depth French door refrigerator. It features over 21 cubic feet of thoughtfully organized space. Dual ice makers and an external water dispenser make beverages simple, and the Smudge-Proof stainless steel finish resists fingerprints and keeps the exterior looking polished. Additional perks like Sabbath Mode, auto-defrost, and LED lighting enhance daily convenience.
⭐Featured Frigidaire Professional PRMC2285AF Review:
“We are extremely satisfied with our new Frigidaire. Lots of storage. The smaller depth fit our space perfectly.”
LG Studio 36 in. 26.5 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This LG Studio Refrigerator
Food stays fresher longer with LG Studio technology, including Linear Cooling and Door Cooling+ that keep temperatures consistent throughout. The internal water dispenser and built-in ice maker make hydration and entertaining effortless, while the PrintProof finish resists fingerprints for a clean, modern look. Smart ThinQ technology provides alerts and diagnostics right on your phone to help keep the appliance running smoothly.
⭐Featured LG Studio SRFB27S3 Review:
“Looks beautiful! It runs very quiet and seems to be keeping a steady temperature. The build quality is better than average. Not quite like the luxury brands but it was substantially less expensive. Great value overall.”
As the saying goes, silence is golden, and if that’s the case, a quiet refrigerator is worth its weight in gold. The bottom line is a refrigerator will make noise, but it’s better to be safe than sorry, so take our tips for your benefit. Want to skip the doubt altogether? We can help you get peace of mind with a new, reliable refrigerator from top brands in the market. Whether it’s one of our picks or a quality refrigerator from any of reliable refrigerator brands we carry, we’re happy to assist you making the right decision!
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop Reliable Refrigerators at Don’s
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop refrigerators online at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help explain why a refrigerator making loud noise — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: Whisper-Quiet Dishwashers: 7 Models Homeowners Love