For your information, refrigerators tend to produce a lot of noise while operating. Yes, and it is possible to come across all sorts of noises from the fridge. Some of the common sounds that you should expect are rattling, sighing, groaning, or knocking sound; there’s no host in the refrigerator.
Did you know that even the ice-making process can produce noise? This implies that all the noises might not indicate the refrigerator has some problems. Of all the sounds, rattling is the scariest one when shutting off the refrigerator compressor since it implies there’s something wrong with the appliance. I know you should worry, but I say no because everything will be covered in this informative article.
Understanding how to solve rattling noises from your refrigerator is one of many homeowners’ wishes. However, sometimes you don’t have time, meaning that you must leave the job to an experienced expert. It’s a weekend and I can see you are not fixed, let’s learn how to respond to refrigerator compressor rattles when shutting off.
Fridge compressor rattling noises when going off (Causes)
Thought you should understand that a compressor is the most critical component of any refrigerator. This is a clear indication that if it fails to work properly, the entire performance of the appliance will be halted because the refrigerator depends on it much. Some folks have asked me how you can determine whether the machine is working or not.
For you to determine its functioning condition, place your ears at the back of the appliance. Confirm any available rattle noises; it shouldn’t be that too loud. It’s hectic to continue listening to such a noise, confirm whether this is really the noise;
Faulty compressor springs; the main culprit for rattling sound in any oven whenever it shuts down is the compressor springs. This is the exact place and source of rattles and can indicate that the components are broken. If your machine operates with such springs, rattling noises will start to emerge. No one would even wish to hear or be told to replace a refrigerator’s compressor because it’s too expensive.
Another reason that might give rise to compressor rattles when the refrigerator shuts off is the excess heat. Maybe the component is being overpowered by the cooling cycle. Mostly, a compressor might be glued, unless you are ready to replace it with a new one.
Faulty defrost timer; this could be another reason you are receiving rattling noises from your refrigerator. Anything strange with the defrost timer of your refrigerator can trigger rattling noises when it shuts off. For such a case, replacing the timer remains the best idea.
Before attempting to configure anything in your appliance, it’s always advisable to start by inspecting for the exact problem. I say so, because sometimes the compressor might be the culprit, resulting in rattling noises. However, there are several causatives that you can search for. You may also hear such noises from the appliance because you have not been carrying out thorough cleanliness or maintenance.
Problematic condenser blades; furthermore, the condenser blades of the refrigerator might be coated with thick debris and dirt layers. With such a state, you’ll start hearing rattling noises from the bottom part of the machine. The best trick is to clean its blades and observe the appliance’s behavior.
More so, there might be something abnormally placed in the refrigerator. You never know, maybe the rattling noises emanate from something wrongly placed inside the appliance. For instance, drain pans tend to be common components that may be wrongly stationed; the machine will rattle. Alternatively, components that should hold your drain pan can also get damaged, resulting in rattle sounds.
If you don’t spot any problem with other elements of the refrigerator, the compressor itself becomes the culprit. Handling a faulty compressor is too expensive; though you should know.
Resolving refrigerator compressor issues
It’s a bit challenging to fix a problematic compressor of your refrigerator. It’s not straightforward like a start relay or condenser. However, there are several actions that you can opt for;
- Replace the compressor: This is the best and advisable option if you don’t want to encounter the hassle of repairing a faulty compressor of your refrigerator. However, you need to understand that opting for replacement is expensive and it may break the bank. Apart from compressor cost, you should also put aside some amount to pay whoever will help you; unless you understand how to do the job yourself.
- Buy a new fridge: The second action that one can initiate is to buy a new refrigerator. Don’t be surprised to spend more on compressor replacement than buying a new appliance. I urge you to go this way if the machine is older; aging has a lot of challenges and rattling noises is among them. Don’t spend much on an old refrigerator, go for a new model and forget about rattling noises.
- Tolerate the noise: Another action that you can take is to tolerate the rattling noise. Sometimes the refrigerator can be performing properly but produces rattling noises. If you fear going for a replacement, you can endure the sounds and continue using the appliance. Yes, what you need is to live with the problem until the compressor dies completely.
What about refrigerator compressor problems?
There are some causatives that can give rise to problematic refrigerator compressors. The compressor of your appliance won’t break down erratically. Below are some of the reasons for the problematic refrigerator’s compressor;
- Insufficient lubrication: Like any other appliance with moving parts, lubrication is the best treat that you can offer your fridge. For instance, these appliances depend on refrigerator oil to enhance the maximum performance of the compressor. With the help of oil, all metallic components and compressors of the appliance will run smoothly. Therefore, if the parts lack enough oil, the compressor may easily get damaged; hence the component will stop operating smoothly. However, oiling might not be on a regular basis, but the existing one will leak due to certain damages. This means that changing the lubricant might not be the best solution at the moment; buy another refrigerator.
- Daily wear and tear: Proper maintenance can help fridge compressors to operate for an extended period. However, these components tend to face wear and tear after a long period of service. There’s nothing you can really do about the compressor going down as a result of aging. Therefore, you should replace the component and continue using your appliance at its fullest strength.
- Foreign substances: You should understand that foreign substances can get stuck into the refrigerator, causing the compressor to work improperly. The surroundings of the compressor should always be kept closed to prevent foreign substances like dust and debris from getting inside. Failure to do so, the foreign substance may bring chronic damage to the compressor. There might be openings after an accident or improper maintenance. The foreign substance will find its way into the compressor via the openings and halt its normal performance. You, therefore, have to seal the openings before debris starts affecting the compressor.
- Too much heat: Subjecting the compressors to high temperatures can be another reason why it’s not operating as it should. The action here is very simple. If the appliance is stationed in a hot and poorly ventilated room, the heat will automatically affect the fridge. Alternatively, the refrigerator compressor may also overheat if a few components or features are broken. Additionally, connecting the refrigerator to the wrong electrical supply could also give rise to overheating components.
FAQs;
What can I do in case my refrigerator starts to make noise?
With modern fridges, compressors tend to be silent and therefore if you start hearing noises, there might be something wrong that requires immediate attention. The first thing you should do is to inspect for the source of the noise.
If the noise is emanating from the compressor, there’s nothing you can do, but to replace it. You could have worked on the noises at the tended state. Anything wrong with the compressor will make it noisy; replacement is the best way to go.
Why am I receiving a loud chunk from my refrigerator?
Anytime I power off your refrigerator, there is a loud chunk sound from the compressor. Try unplugging the device from the power supply, and then poke the compressor to confirm whether everything is intact. Check if there are loose parts; if so, work on the issue immediately.
My fridge compressor has stopped working. What should I do?
To be sure with what you should treat, start by disconnecting the appliance from the power source for something like 2-3 hours. Connect it back to the power outlet and if the compressor picks, it’s possible that something made it overheat.
What should I do when my fridge shuts down?
Ensure there is enough airflow in the appliance and have sufficient space. Failure to do so may make the unit’s compressor to overheat, causing the machine to go off.
Final words
Refrigerator compressor rattles when shutting off should be the past thing with the help of this informative report. We have provided you with more than enough DIY knowledge to solve rattling noise from your fridge compressor. Hopefully, you find this guide useful.
