The part(s) or condition(s) listed below for the symptom Refrigerator not cooling are ordered from most likely to least likely to occur. Check or test each item, starting with the items at the top of the page.
Most Frequent Causes for Refrigerator is Noisy or Loud
| Cause 1 Fan Blade If the refrigerator is noisy or loud, especially when one of the doors are opened, either the evaporator or condenser fan blade may be at fault. First, check out the evaporator fan blade in the freezer behind the back panel. Try turning it by hand. If the fan blade does not turn freely, check to see if the blade is rubbing against something or if something is caught in the blade. Additionally, check the condenser fan blade in the back underside of the refrigerator to determine if it has any obstructions. | Cause 2 Evaporator Fan Motor When the evaporator fan motor in the freezer behind the rear panel fails, it often generates a lot of noise. This noise will be much louder when the refrigerator door is opened. If the evaporator fan is noisy, replace it. | Cause 3 Condenser Fan Motor There might be something caught in the condenser fan motor blade, or the condenser fan motor bearings might be defective. The condenser fan motor is usually located underneath the refrigerator near the back. Pull the refrigerator out from the wall and remove the rear access panel to access it. |
| Cause 4 Compressor If the noise is coming from the compressor, the compressor might be damaged internally. The compressor internal components can wear out over time generating more noise than normal. The compressor is usually located underneath the refrigerator near the back. Pull the refrigerator out from the wall and remove the rear panel to access it. Compressors often last for years after they become noisy. However, if your compressor is noisy, be aware that it is likely to fail. The compressor must be replaced by a licensed technician. | Cause 5 Water Inlet Valve If the refrigerator is noisy or loud, particularly when the ice maker is filling, the water inlet valve might be at fault. The water inlet valve is an electrically-controlled valve that opens to supply water to the refrigerator dispenser and icemaker. Over time, mineral deposits can accumulate inside the valve and restrict the water flow. If the water inlet valve is noisy or loud, replace it. Do not attempt to repair the water inlet valve—disassembling the valve can cause the valve to fail. |
