Why Is My Fridge Making a Loud Noise?

27 June 2026

troubleshootingrefrigeratorrepair

Buzzing, humming, clicking or rattling? Some fridge noises are normal and some are a warning. Here's how to tell the difference and what to do.

Fridges are never completely silent, and a lot of the sounds they make are perfectly normal. But a noise that is new, loud or constant is worth paying attention to, because it can be an early warning of a part starting to fail. The type of noise usually points to the cause.

Humming or buzzing

A low hum is normal, it is the compressor doing its job. But if the hum has become louder than usual, first check that the fridge is level and not touching the wall or a cabinet, as vibration through the floor or a wall amplifies the sound. Also pull it out and check the compressor at the back is not sitting against anything.

Rattling or vibrating

Rattling is most often something simple: items on top of the fridge, bottles knocking together inside, or the drip tray at the base having come loose. It can also be the fridge not sitting level on the floor. Rule those out before assuming a fault.

Clicking

Occasional clicking is the thermostat or defrost timer switching on and off, which is normal. Repeated rapid clicking, on the other hand, can mean the compressor is struggling to start, which is worth having looked at.

Loud whirring or a fan noise

A whirring that gets louder, or a fan sound that comes and goes, often points to the condenser or evaporator fan. Dust build-up on the condenser fan and coils is common, especially in a busy kitchen. With the fridge switched off at the wall, gently vacuum the coils and fan at the back or underneath. If the noise continues, a fan motor may be wearing out.

Gurgling or bubbling

Gurgling is usually just refrigerant moving through the system, and is nothing to worry about.

When to call a professional

If the noise is coming from the compressor, or a fan motor is failing, or the fridge is getting noisier and warmer at the same time, it is time to get it checked. A failing compressor caught early is a much cheaper conversation than one that has stopped completely.

Wollongong Service Company carries out fridge repairs in Wollongong and across the rest of the Illawarra and South Coast. If the noise has you worried, book a repair or call 02 4229 3777.