A Sub Zero refrigerator, like other appliances, doesn’t always stay quiet. You might hear a soft hum from the compressor or a little gurgle from the refrigerant. These sounds often mean the appliance is working properly. However, it can be hard to tell the difference between normal noises and those that might mean trouble. Let’s look at the different refrigerator sounds and signals and find out how to tell if everything is okay or if there is a problem.
Identifying Common Refrigerator Sounds
Refrigerators, especially advanced ones like those from Sub Zero, have many parts that help them work well. As these parts operate, you will hear a mix of sounds.
Most of these sounds are normal and not something to be worried about. Knowing these usual sounds can help you avoid unnecessary stress. It will also assist you in dealing with any strange noises quickly.
Humming and Whirring: Everyday Operations
The main sound you will hear from your Sub Zero refrigerator is a soft humming or whirring. This noise comes from the compressor, which is the main part of your cooling system.
When the compressor turns on and off, you’ll hear the humming. This means it is moving refrigerant to keep the temperature you set.
Don’t worry, this humming is perfectly normal. It shows that your appliance is working as it should.
Cracking and Popping: Temperature Adjustments
Another common sound you may hear is cracking or popping. This happens often after you change the temperature settings or open and close the refrigerator door a lot.
These noises are due to the normal expansion and contraction of the inside parts of the refrigerator. This mainly includes the plastic drawers and shelves as they react to changes in temperature.
Don’t worry when you notice these sounds. They are simply your refrigerator adjusting to the temperature changes and usually do not last long.
Unpacking Unusual Refrigerator Noises
When your refrigerator makes humming, whirring, clicking, or even a pop, it’s usually normal. However, some noises need more attention. These sounds might show that something is wrong with your appliance.
Let’s look at some of these unusual sounds and what they could mean for your fridge’s health.
Buzzing: When to Be Concerned
A soft buzzing sound from your Sub Zero fridge usually comes from the evaporator fan motor. This fan helps move cold air around the fridge. Normally, this buzzing is not a problem. But, if the buzzing gets louder, turns into a hum, or you hear rattling, it might mean the fan motor is broken or something is stuck in the fan blades.
If you notice this, it’s important to fix it quickly to avoid more damage.
Squealing or Screeching: Motor Issues
High-pitched sounds like squealing or screeching often come from the motor or fan of the refrigerator. These noises usually happen when the motor bearings are getting old or are not lubricated well.
If you ignore these sounds, it could lead to overheating and may cause the motor to fail. This would mean you will need expensive repairs. If you hear squealing or screeching that won’t stop, turn off your Sub Zero refrigerator to avoid more damage. Then, talk to a qualified technician for help.
Gurgling: Normal After a Cycle
Gurgling sounds often occur in refrigerators. These sounds typically come from the refrigerant moving through the cooling system. You may hear this bubbling noise right after the compressor stops running.
This is normal and not something to worry about. But if the gurgling continues and your fridge is not cooling well, it might mean there is a refrigerant leak. In that case, you should call a professional to help.
Troubleshooting Tips for Noisy Refrigerators
Sometimes, you can solve problems with refrigerator noises by doing some troubleshooting.
Adjusting the Feet for Stability
An unleveled Sub Zero refrigerator can cause annoying noise. If you notice rattling, shaking, or vibrating sounds, the easiest fix is to adjust its feet.
Most refrigerators have front legs that you can change. To level your fridge, turn the legs either clockwise or counterclockwise. You can use a leveler tool to make sure it’s perfectly level.
Checking for Obstructions in Fan Blades
Excessive buzzing or humming might mean something is blocking the fan blades of the refrigerator. First, unplug the appliance to prevent electrical issues.
Next, find the fan, which is often at the back of the freezer. Check it for any visible dirt or debris. Gently clear away any blockages with a soft brush or cloth. Be careful not to hurt the fan blades.
When to Contact Sub Zero Appliance Repair
Some refrigerator noises are normal, but others mean you might need help from a professional. If basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, reach out to the experts at Sub Zero Appliance Repair. Our factory-trained technicians know how to find and fix any problems with your Sub Zero refrigerator. We will make sure your valuable appliance works well again.
Persistent Loud Noises Despite Troubleshooting
If you keep hearing those strange noises even after you have cleaned, balanced, and checked your Sub Zero refrigerator, it might mean there is a bigger problem.
Using the refrigerator like this can make the issue worse. This could cause more expensive repairs or even a replacement. It’s a good idea to call a professional technician at Sub Zero Appliance Repair for help.
Signs of Failing Compressor
A broken compressor is one of the biggest problems a refrigerator can have. You might notice it making a loud humming or buzzing noise that doesn’t go away. If the compressor gets too hot and stops working, you could hear clicking sounds as it tries to turn back on.
Fixing a compressor can be difficult. For older fridges, it is often cheaper to buy a new refrigerator than to repair the compressor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, knowing the different refrigerator sounds and signals can help you spot problems early. Everyday sounds, like humming and whirring, are normal. But if you hear cracking or popping, it might mean the temperature is changing. Strange noises, like buzzing or squealing, should make you take a closer look. You can try small fixes, such as adjusting the feet for stability or checking the fan blades. These can often fix minor problems. But if loud noises keep happening or if the compressor seems to be failing, you might need a professional. If you worry about your refrigerator’s sounds, feel free to contact our experts at Sub Zero Appliance Repair for help. For more tips, check out our blog about How to Clean Refrigerator Coils.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the noise levels of refrigerators?
Refrigerators often make sounds within a certain level of noise. You may hear common sounds like humming, buzzing, and sometimes rattling. These sounds are usually soft and mix in well with the normal background noise of everyday life.
What does a bad refrigerator compressor sound like?
A broken refrigerator compressor usually makes loud sounds. You may hear humming, clicking, or rattling. These noises are louder than normal and can happen even if the refrigerator is not cooling.
When should you be concerned about unusual sounds coming from your refrigerator?
It’s time to worry if your Sub Zero refrigerator makes weird, loud, or strange noises. This is especially true if you notice it is not cooling well, has too much frost, or is leaking water.