Most noises from your LG refrigerator are normal and happen as parts operate or temperatures change.
However, unusual noises can occur if the refrigerator isn't level, frost builds up around a fan, or a component needs service.
Identify the type of sound below to find the right solution.
The following audio clips are actual recordings of a running refrigerator. The volume may fluctuate, and you might hear background noise. Adjust your device's volume as needed.
Why Do I Hear Clattering or Clicking?
3-way valve operation (clattering)
- Cause: This sound occurs when the valve opens and closes to control the flow of refrigerant through the refrigerator.
- What to do: No action is needed. This is a normal operating sound that may occur for about seven seconds once a day, or for about three seconds every hour.
Why Do I Hear a Buzzing, Humming, or Whirring Motor?
Compressor start/stop (Buzzing, shrilling, clattering)
Compressor operation (Buzzing, whirring)
Fan noise (Whirring, humming)
- Cause: These sounds occur when the compressor produces cold air or when the fan circulates it.
If you open the doors frequently or place hot food inside, the motors may run faster and sound louder as the refrigerator lowers its internal temperature. - What to do: No action is needed. The motor speed and sound will naturally decrease once the refrigerator reaches the set temperature.
Why Do I Hear Gurgling, Hissing, or Running Water?
Refrigerant noise (Gurgling, hissing)
Defrost cycle (Dripping, melting, hissing, evaporating)
- Cause: These sounds occur as refrigerant flows through the cooling tubes.
You may also hear them during the defrost cycle when water from melting frost drips onto the heater and evaporates. - What to do: No action is needed. These are normal sounds that occur as the refrigerator cools and maintains its internal temperature.
Why Do I Hear Cracking or Snapping?
Thermal expansion (Cracking, snapping)
- Cause: Plastic shelves and internal components may expand or contract slightly as the temperature inside the refrigerator changes.
- What to do: No action is needed. This is a normal sound caused by natural thermal expansion, similar to the sound of ice cracking as it melts.
Why Do I Hear a Whooshing Sound?
Air escaping (Whooshing)
- Cause: When you open the refrigerator door, warm air enters and changes the internal pressure. This causes air to escape through the drain tube.
- What to do: No action is needed. This is a normal sound caused by natural airflow when you open or close the doors.
Why Is the Refrigerator Shaking or Humming Loudly?
Shaking of the unit (Humming)
- Cause: The refrigerator may be too close to a wall or cabinet. An uneven floor or an unlevel refrigerator can also amplify normal motor vibrations.
- What to do:
- 1. Make sure the back and sides of the refrigerator have enough clearance from walls and cabinets.
- 2. Adjust the leveling legs under the refrigerator until it sits level and stable.
- 3. If the floor is severely uneven, you may need to move the refrigerator to a flat, solid surface.
Why Do I Hear Continuous Tapping or Rattling?
Obstruction in fan (Steady thudding, whirring noises)
- Cause: Thick frost may have built up around the fan, or a foreign object might be touching the fan.
- What to do:
- 1. Store your food in a cooler or another refrigerator.
- 2. Unplug the refrigerator.
- 3. Leave the doors open until the frost melts completely. This may take about 24 hours in the summer or up to three days in the winter.
- ※ If the same symptom or error code persists, a service visit is necessary for accurate diagnosis.
Why Is the Compressor or Fan Motor Unusually Loud?
Abnormal compressor noise (Rattling, drilling)
Faulty fan motor noise (Loud whirring noises)
- Cause: The compressor or fan motor may be experiencing a temporary issue or require service.
- What to do:
If the refrigerator is still cooling normally, the sound may be temporary.
However, if the noise persists or the refrigerator isn't cooling properly, contact LG Support for assistance.
Warning
- To prevent injury, always have two or more people move or level the refrigerator. Moving or tilting the unit by yourself may cause it to tip over or result in severe injury.
FAQ
- Q. Why Does My Refrigerator Sound Louder at Night?
- A. Normal operating sounds, like the compressor or fan, may seem louder at night or early in the morning because there is less background noise.
- Q. Why Does My Refrigerator Keep Beeping?
-
A. The door alarm may sound if a refrigerator door or drawer is not completely closed. Make sure each door and drawer is fully closed.
Check if food, containers, or packaging are blocking the doors or drawers.
This guide is based on standard models. The settings menu may vary by model.
