Refrigerator
Troubleshooting: Noises

Refrigerator making a weird noise? Let’s see what’s going on.

Noises

Buzzing
This will happen if a refrigerator has an ice maker but is not connected to a water supply.

Chattering when dispensing ice
This could mean the water line is kinked. Straighten out the kink, and the noise should stop.

Clicking
This is another noise that can happen if a refrigerator has an ice maker but is not connected to a water supply.

Clicking can also occur when the dual evaporator valve is regulating the cooling operation. It happens as the unit switches from cooling one compartment to the other.

Refrigerator water dispenser
Refrigerator with bottom freezer drawer open
Amana® side-by-side refrigerator with door open

Door alarm
This will sound when the refrigerator or freezer door has been open for five minutes while the cooling is turned on. The alarm will repeat every two minutes until the door is closed.

A dripping sound
This could be caused by water dripping onto the defrost heater during the defrost cycle.

Grinding or squeaking
This could happen if the refrigerator is not level. Use a level on all sides of the refrigerator. Follow specific instructions for leveling from your refrigerator’s use and care guide.

Gurgling
You might hear this sound after a cooling cycle as the refrigerant flows through the tubes. You also might hear it when opening and closing the doors as water is equalizing in the drain tube. This happens more during times of high humidity.

Amana® side-by-side bottom-out refrigerator in kitchen

High pitched
A pulsating or high-pitched noise can come from the compressor or fans as they adjust to optimize performance.

Popping or cracking
This can be caused by contraction and expansion of the inside walls of the refrigerator.

Rattling
This sound can be caused by the flow of refrigerant through the cooling system or the flow of water through the water line. It can also happen when items are stored on top of the refrigerator.

Sizzling or hissing
This could be caused by water dripping onto the defrost heater during the defrost cycle.

Thumping or hammering
This can be caused by the water line during a fill cycle.

Still having issues?

You may need a professional repair. Or, if your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, it might be time for a replacement. Amana has great refrigerators at a great value – check out the latest.