Quick Answer
Some fridge sounds are normal, including a soft hum from the compressor, a click when the motor starts or stops, and a gurgle as refrigerant moves through the pipes. Rattling, buzzing, grinding and a loud continuous hum are the sounds that usually mean something needs checking.
If the noise is sudden, getting louder, or comes with warm food or a fridge that won't cool, book a technician.
Your fridge runs all day and all night, so when it starts making a new noise, it's easy to notice. Most of the time the cause is simple. Sometimes it's an early warning of a part that's about to fail.
This guide explains what each common sound usually means, which ones you can check at home, and when to book a fridge repair in Melbourne.
Clicking
A click when the fridge starts or stops is normal. It is usually the thermostat or the start relay switching the compressor on or off. Clicking that happens every few minutes, or that gets faster over time, can mean the relay or thermostat is failing.
Humming
A steady hum is the compressor and fan working. It's normal, but a hum that's louder than before, or that doesn't stop, can mean the compressor is working harder than it should. Dirty condenser coils are a common cause, and cleaning them can make a real difference.
Rattling
Rattling is usually loose items in the fridge, a loose shelf or drawer, or a drip tray that isn't sitting level. Move items away from the back wall, check the shelves, and make sure the fridge is level on the floor.
Buzzing
A buzzing sound often comes from the fan. If a fan blade is bent or hitting a cover, it makes a buzz or a tick. Turn the fridge off at the wall, check the fan blade for damage, and listen again once it's back on.
Grinding or knocking
Grinding or knocking is one to take seriously. It can mean the fan motor or compressor is failing. Switch the fridge off at the wall and call a technician, rather than running it while the sound continues.
Gurgling
A gurgle or bubbling sound, usually after the fridge is first switched on or after it's been moved, is refrigerant moving through the pipes. This is normal and usually settles within a few hours.
Book a Fridge Repair in Melbourne
If the noise is grinding, knocking or getting louder, book a fridge repair rather than waiting. If the fridge has also stopped cooling, read why your fridge is not cooling. If it runs constantly, see fridge running non-stop.
What's Safe to Check Yourself vs When to Call a Pro
Safe to Check Yourself
- Clean the condenser coils at the back or underneath the fridge.
- Check the fridge is level on the floor.
- Move items away from the back wall and check shelves and drawers for loose parts.
- Check the drip tray and fan blade for obvious damage, with the fridge switched off at the wall.
Always Call a Licensed Technician
- Test the fan motor and fan blade alignment.
- Check the compressor, start relay and thermostat.
- Check refrigerant pressure and cooling performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a clicking fridge normal?▼
Yes, a click when the compressor starts or stops is normal. Clicking that is frequent, loud, or getting worse should be checked.
Why is my fridge humming louder in summer?▼
In hot weather the fridge works harder to keep cool, so the compressor runs more often. Cleaning the condenser coils can help. A louder hum that doesn't settle needs a check.
What does grinding mean in a fridge?▼
Grinding can mean the fan motor or compressor is failing. Turn the fridge off at the wall and book a technician.
How often should I clean the condenser coils?▼
Every 6 to 12 months is a good rule. Homes with pets, or fridges near a kitchen, may need it more often.
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Dishank Patel
Lead Technician & Founder · DP Electric Melbourne
Dishank Patel has over 10 years of hands-on experience repairing household appliances across Melbourne's eastern suburbs. He holds all required Victorian electrical and gas licensing and has personally repaired thousands of appliances across brands including Bosch, Miele, LG, Samsung, and Fisher & Paykel.