7 Ways to Quiet A Noisy Refrigerator Compressor
Having a noisy refrigerator compressor can be pretty annoying, especially if it’s located in a kitchen or a living room. Although compressors are not normally quiet devices, a compressor that is not working properly is even noisier than it should be.
But don’t worry, there are several ways to quiet a noisy refrigerator compressor and enjoy a peaceful home environment. In this article, we’ll explore the most effective ways to quiet your noisy refrigerator compressor and explain what you can do to prevent this from happening again. So, let’s start!
So How To Quiet Your Noisy Refrigerator Compressor? The best way to quiet a noisy refrigerator compressor is to install anti-vibration pads, tighten loose parts, soundproof a compressor, ensure proper refrigerant pressure, and clean condenser coils. With proper use, these methods will reduce the noise of the compressor on the refrigerator.
Problems with the refrigerator compressor are common, and they can happen, especially with older models of refrigerators. That sound can be pretty unpleasant and irritating after a while, and it is necessary to find a way to reduce it. Below we will discuss why compressors can be noisy and what causes it.
What Is a Refrigerator Compressor and Why Is It Noisy?
A refrigerator compressor is a vital component in a refrigeration system that compresses and circulates refrigerant to remove heat from the refrigerator’s interior and maintain its cool temperature.
The compressor works by drawing in low-pressure refrigerant gas from the evaporator, compressing it to high pressure, and then expelling it to the condenser, where the heat is released. This cycle is repeated continuously to keep the refrigeration system functioning.
Each refrigerator compressor consists of a pump and a motor. These are the main parts of each compressor.
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Why Refrigerator Compressor Is Nosiy?
Refrigerator compressors can make noise for several reasons, including:
- Vibrations from the motor: The vibration from the motor can cause noise, particularly if the compressor is not securely mounted.
- Worn-out bearings: Worn-out bearings in the motor can cause a humming or grinding noise.
- Loose parts: Loose parts in the refrigeration system can cause rattling or knocking sounds.
- High refrigerant pressure: High pressure can cause the compressor to work harder and make more noise.
- Dirty or clogged condenser coils: Dirty or clogged condenser coils can cause the compressor to work harder and make more noise.
- Age of the refrigerator: As the refrigerator ages, its components may wear out and cause more noise.
Required Tools To Quiet A Loud Fridge Compressor
To repair the compressor on the refrigerator, you will need specific tools. Therefore, get the following:
- Wrench: A wrench is another tool you will need for this project.
- Rubber Mounts: Be sure to buy a few rubber mounts for this project. If you notice that the mount is loose or broken, it may cause the loud sound your fridge makes while the compressor runs.
- Wood Shims: The material that might also be needed is wood shims. They are used to tighten up the compressor.
- Sound Absorbing Pads: The goal is to silence the compressor, and the best way to do this is to wrap it up with sound-absorbing material. Keep in mind that proper ventilation must be present in the compressor.
How to Quiet A Noisy Refrigerator Compressor
Before you try anything on your refrigerator, listen to the sound it makes for a few minutes. Try to spot where the sound is coming from and if it’s similar to what we discussed.
If you’re not sure if the noise from your refrigerator is normal, it’s best to hire a professional to take a look. If the refrigerator makes more noise than usual, it could mean that some parts are damaged and need to be fixed or replaced.
If you want to buy a new one, check out this Refrigerator Compressor to Buy.
Also, look at what’s around the refrigerator because it can affect how loud it is. For example, the type of floor can make a difference. A fridge on a tile floor might not make as much noise as one on a wooden floor.
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However, the most common reason why your refrigerator is making a loud noise is probably the compressor. In this section, we’ll talk about how to make your fridge quieter, but our main focus will be on the compressor. This means we’ll look at the back of the fridge because that’s where it is located. So, let’s start!
Level the Refrigerator
One reason a fridge can make a lot of noise that it’s not standing evenly on its legs. To make it quieter, make sure the legs are even, so the fridge doesn’t vibrate as much. You can also put a soft mat under the fridge to stop the noise from echoing.
There are special materials that help block noise. They come in different sizes, like 2 feet by 4 feet or 4 feet by 8 feet. These are good for those who live in apartments and can’t change the walls or flooring. If this isn’t the solution to your problem, then follow these steps to fix the noisy compressor.
Step 1: Turn Off & Unplug The Fridge
The first step in this process is to turn off the fridge. You’ll need to move the fridge out of its place so you can work on it. Don’t hesitate to ask for help. After you move the refrigerator, go behind it and find where the compressor is located.
Step 2: Check If Noise Is From the Compressor
Now it is important to determine that the loud sound that the fridge creates is coming from the refrigerator’s compressor. The best way to do this is to touch each part of the refrigerator (each component).
By touching these components, the noise will change in volume. Since this is probably the sound of the compressor, tap it first. So, is the sound still present, or does it fade? If the loud sound is still present, try pressing the evaporator and other components behind the fridge.
Step 3: Unplug Condenser Fan
After you have gone through everything in detail and touched each part on your refrigerator, and you are still not clear if that sound is coming from the compressor – unplug the condenser fan. In most cases, the condenser fan is the cause of the loud noise produced by the refrigerator.
Try to unplug the condenser fan and see if the noise goes away. That way, you’ll see if the compressor is a problem or the condenser fan.
Step 4: Replace The Rubber Mounts
The next step is to check the rubber mounts on your refrigerator. Sometimes they can be the cause of the noise. The main function of rubber mounts is to hold the compressor.
If you notice that these rubber mounts are loose or broken, they are probably the main reason the compressor is noisy during operation. We suggest tightening the rubber mount bolts. For this, you’ll need a wrench or screwdriver. Also, be sure to use wood shims to tighten.
The first thing would be to tighten the bolts that are holding the mounts to the fridge itself. Also, don’t forget to tighten the compressor brackets by using wood shims.
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Step 5: Remove Dirt From Compressor
Another reason a refrigerator compressor can be noisy is the dust, which makes the compressor work harder. If you notice that coils or compressors are dirty, clean them. You can use cleaning brushes for this task. They can be easily found at almost any hardware store.
Step 6: Soundproof Your Fridge Compressor
Another way to fix the loud noise that is coming from the compressor is to wrap it with soundproofing material. Make sure to buy some soft sheets and wrap them around the compressor. Remember that you need to do this properly because the compressor needs proper ventilation, so you don’t want it to overheat.
Step 7: Replace Compressor With New One
If the loud noise from the refrigerator still doesn’t go away after going through all the steps, then you’ll need to replace the compressor. First, check if the refrigerator you bought is still under warranty.
If you don’t have it, then you will need to buy a new compressor and install it. The cost of that will be anything between $250 and $700. This also includes labor.
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FAQ: People Also Ask
Is it Normal For Refrigerator Compressors to Make Noise?
Yes, it is normal for the compressor to make a buzzing sound during its operation. However, if the noise gets really loud and you can hear it from another room, you need to ask a professional to come and see if there is a problem. If you don’t have experience in this field, we suggest that you leave this job to a licensed technician.
What Does a Noisy Compressor Mean?
If you hear clicking, buzzing, or ticking sounds, it might be because something is loose or broken inside the refrigerator. If you hear constant clicking or buzzing, then it is an indicator that the electrical part that helps the cooler do its job is not working properly.
What Does a Damaged Compressor Sound Like?
When you notice loud banging or clanking from your refrigerator, it might indicate that the compressor needs to be replaced. If you hear rattling, ticking, or rumbling sounds, it might mean that something inside the refrigerator is loose or some garbage or leaves are stuck in the outside part.
Final Thoughts
Although they are useful, refrigerators are usually noisy devices. However, some things can be done to make the loud noise quieter, especially if it is a compressor. In this article, we went through the instructions in detail on what needs to be done to silence the refrigerator compressor. I hope this article helped you, and if you have additional questions, feel free to contact us.
