Why is my refrigerator making noise?

Q: Why is my refrigerator compressor noise lasting so long?

New refrigerators have a high-efficiency compressor that may run longer than older models in order to consume only the energy necessary for optimum efficiency. This is normal, and you may also hear it if the room is warm, a lot of food was just added, or if the doors are open often or were accidentally left open.

Refrigerators and freezers make a variety of normal operating sounds, but you may not have heard them all before. These sounds may come from behind the refrigerator, inside the fridge or freezer compartment or from the ice maker. Keep reading to learn more about what you might hear from your refrigerator.

Leveling leg and screw on the bottom of a refrigerator

Why is my fridge vibrating?

A vibrating sound may mean your refrigerator isn’t steady. Remove the base grille from the bottom of the refrigerator and adjust the leveling screws so the fridge is off the floor and level.

Why is my refrigerator buzzing?

Buzzing is a normal sound that may occur when the refrigerator compressor or fans are adjusting to optimize performance. If this becomes a loud refrigerator noise, contact a certified technician to determine if there’s a problem.

Why is my fridge making a hissing noise?

You may hear a hissing noise when refrigerant is flowing through the cooling system — this is normal and nothing to worry about.

Why is my refrigerator making a gurgling or dripping noise?

Gurgling or dripping noises are generally normal refrigerator sounds that may occur when ice melts during the defrost cycle and water runs into the drain pan. If you notice water spillage from your refrigerator along with the dripping noise, contact a certified technician, as it may indicate a leak.

Why is my refrigerator humming or pulsating?

You may hear a humming or pulsating sound if your refrigerator’s ice maker isn’t connected to the water supply, but the water valve is still opening and closing. Check that the ice maker is turned off if your refrigerator isn’t connected to a water supply.

Maintenance tip: Even though it won’t make a noise when it needs to be changed, be sure to replace your refrigerator’s ice and water filter every 6 months for optimal performance. Learn more about how your fridge’s water filter works.

Why is my refrigerator making noise like creaking or cracking?

If your fridge has an ice maker, you may hear a creaking or cracking sound as ice is ejected from the ice maker mold and falls into the bin. This is a normal refrigerator noise.

Why is my refrigerator or freezer making noise like popping?

A popping noise is a normal sound a refrigerator makes as its inside walls contract and expand, which may happen as it cools down for the first time or defrosts.

Electronic controls inside a refrigerator

Why is my refrigerator compressor noise lasting so long?

New refrigerators have a high-efficiency compressor. This refrigerator part may run longer than older models in order to consume only the energy necessary for optimum efficiency. This is normal, and you may also hear it if the room is warm, a lot of food was just added, or if the doors are open often or were accidentally left open.

Have questions about other refrigerator or freezer noises?

Even if you don’t have a Whirlpool^® Refrigerator, you can search our help page for answers to your questions. If you have a Whirlpool^® Refrigerator and need to schedule service for noise or something else, make an appointment online or call us at 1-866-698-2538.

Shopping tip: If you’re ready for a new fridge, visit the Appliance Finder to find the right one for your home. Our refrigerators have the latest features to help you keep food fresh and organized.

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If it's time for an upgrade, the full collection of fridges by Whirlpool brand gives you the power to choose an appliance that fits into your existing kitchen layout. Available in side-by-side, french door and top- or bottom-freezer options, Whirlpool^® fridges deliver storage capabilities and flexibility that help keep your family's favorite foods fresh and organized.