How to Fix a Fridge Making Buzzing or Humming Noise

Overview

A fridge making noise can be annoying and may indicate a problem. This guide covers diagnosing and fixing common fridge noises.

Step-by-Step Fix

1. Carefully check if your fridge is perfectly level; an unlevel appliance can cause vibrations and noise. If it's not level, gently adjust the adjustable feet at the bottom of the fridge by turning them clockwise or anti-clockwise until the unit stands firmly and level on all four points.
2. Thoroughly inspect the top and sides of your fridge, as well as the space behind it, for any loose items that might be vibrating against the appliance. Remove any jars, magnets, or other objects that could be rattling or causing contact noise and place them elsewhere.
3. For safety, always unplug your fridge from the mains power socket before performing any maintenance. Locate the condenser coils, typically found at the back or underneath your fridge, and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to carefully remove any accumulated dust and debris, as clean coils help the compressor run more efficiently.
4. Identify whether the buzzing or humming noise is originating from the compressor, usually a black, dome-shaped component at the back, or one of the internal fans. You might need to open the fridge door briefly to listen for a fan noise from inside, or carefully listen near the back for the compressor.
5. If, after following these steps, the buzzing or humming noise continues, or if you are unsure about troubleshooting further, it's best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. Explain the symptoms you've observed, and they will be able to safely diagnose and fix the underlying issue.

Common Symptoms & Diagnostic Resolutions

Review the common error codes and operating symptoms below to quickly identify the root cause of the fault before ordering replacement parts.

Frequently Asked Questions