Why Is My Refrigerator Making A Clicking Sound

That repetitive click… click… click… coming from your kitchen isn’t just a minor annoyance—it’s your refrigerator trying to tell you something. While some sounds are normal, a persistent clicking often signals an issue that needs your attention. Ignoring it could lead to spoiled food, higher energy bills, or a costly repair down the line.

But there’s no need to panic. Most causes of a clicking refrigerator are surprisingly simple to diagnose and even fix yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the common culprits, from dusty coils to a faulty part, helping you restore peace and quiet to your kitchen.

We’ll cover the tools you need, the steps to take, and when it’s time to put down the screwdriver and call a professional. Let’s solve this kitchen mystery together.

First Things First: Is the Clicking Sound Normal?

Before we dive into troubleshooting, it’s important to know that refrigerators aren’t silent appliances. A brand-new fridge will make a variety of gurgling, humming, and even occasional clicking sounds as part of its regular operation.

Normal clicks often occur when the defrost timer switches on and off or when the compressor starts or stops its cooling cycle. These are typically single, isolated clicks. The problem arises when you hear a repetitive clicking sound, especially if it happens every few minutes and the fridge isn’t cooling properly.

This pattern—click, hum, click—often indicates the compressor is trying to start but can’t. That’s the sound we’re here to fix.

Common Problems: Why Is My Refrigerator Making a Clicking Sound?

A continuous clicking noise usually points to a problem in the system that powers your compressor. Think of it as a car that won’t start; you hear the *click* of the ignition trying, but the engine won’t turn over. Here are the most common reasons behind that sound.

The Start Relay and Overload Protector

This is the number one suspect. The start relay is a small electrical part attached to the side of the compressor. Its job is to send a jolt of power to get the compressor running. The overload protector is a safety device that cuts power if the compressor gets too hot.

If the relay fails, it can’t start the compressor, leading to a “click” as it tries and another “click” as the overload protector trips. This is the most frequent cause of the dreaded click-hum-click cycle.

Dirty Condenser Coils

Your refrigerator removes heat from inside the unit and releases it through the condenser coils, usually located on the back or underneath. When these coils are caked in dust, pet hair, and debris, the fridge can’t release heat effectively.

This forces the compressor to work harder and overheat. The overload protector will then kick in to prevent damage, causing a clicking sound as it repeatedly tries to restart the overheated compressor.

The Condenser Fan Motor

The condenser fan blows air over the coils and compressor to help them cool down. If this fan is blocked by debris or the motor has failed, the system will overheat just as it would with dirty coils.

You’ll hear the tell-tale clicking as the overload protector does its job. Sometimes, you might also hear a faint buzzing or squealing if the fan motor is struggling.

A Failing Compressor

This is the least common—and most expensive—problem. The compressor is the heart of your refrigerator’s cooling system. If it’s mechanically or electrically failed, the start relay will try to turn it on, but the locked-up compressor will draw too much power, tripping the overload protector and causing the click.

Tools You’ll Need for a DIY Diagnosis

You don’t need a full mechanic’s toolkit for basic troubleshooting. Having these simple items on hand will make the process much smoother.

• Coil Brush: A long, flexible brush designed for cleaning refrigerator coils.
• Vacuum Cleaner: With a crevice or brush attachment.
• Screwdriver or Nut Driver: To remove the back access panel.
• Multimeter (Optional, for advanced checks): To test electrical components for continuity.
• Flashlight: To see into the dark corners behind your fridge.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fix a Refrigerator Making a Clicking Sound

Ready to get started? Follow this why is my refrigerator making a clicking sound guide from the easiest fix to the more involved checks. Always prioritize your safety.

SAFETY WARNING: Always unplug your refrigerator from the wall outlet before cleaning, inspecting, or replacing any parts. Electricity is dangerous. If you are ever unsure or uncomfortable, stop immediately and call a qualified technician.

Step 1: The 10-Minute Power Reset

Sometimes, a simple electronic glitch can be solved with a reset. It’s a long shot, but it’s the easiest first step.

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall.
2. Wait for 10 minutes to allow all electronic components to fully reset.
3. Plug it back in and listen. If the clicking is gone and the fridge starts humming normally, you’re all set!

Step 2: Clean the Condenser Coils

This is a crucial maintenance task and a common fix. Addressing this is one of the best eco-friendly why is my refrigerator making a clicking sound solutions, as clean coils improve energy efficiency.

1. Unplug the fridge.
2. Locate the coils. On most modern fridges, they are underneath. You may need to remove a small grille at the front or a larger access panel at the back.
3. Use your coil brush to gently loosen dust and debris from the coils.
4. Use your vacuum’s hose attachment to suck up all the loosened gunk. Be thorough!
5. While you’re there, vacuum the condenser fan and the area around the compressor to ensure good airflow.
6. Replace the panel, plug the fridge back in, and listen.

Step 3: Inspect the Condenser Fan

If cleaning the coils didn’t work, let’s check the fan itself.

1. Unplug the fridge and access the back panel.
2. Locate the condenser fan, which is a small fan near the compressor.
3. Check for obstructions. Is there a piece of paper, a plastic bag, or a fallen wire blocking the blades? Remove it.
4. Try to spin the fan blade by hand (with the power off!). It should spin freely. If it feels stiff or won’t move, the motor has likely failed and needs to be replaced.

Step 4: Check the Start Relay (Advanced)

This step involves handling electrical components. Proceed only if you are comfortable and have some DIY experience.

1. Unplug the fridge.
2. The start relay is a small plastic box attached to the side of the large, black, dome-shaped compressor. Pull it straight off the compressor terminals.
3. Shake the relay. If you hear a rattling sound, the relay is broken internally and needs to be replaced. This is a very common point of failure.
4. If you have a multimeter, you can perform a continuity test on the relay terminals. The exact procedure varies by model, so consult your fridge’s service manual or an online tutorial for your specific part.
5. If the relay is bad, you can order a new one using your refrigerator’s model number. They are generally inexpensive and easy to install—just plug the new one on.

Preventative Maintenance: Best Practices for a Quiet Fridge

The best way to deal with a clicking fridge is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Following this simple why is my refrigerator making a clicking sound care guide will extend the life of your appliance and save energy.

• Clean the Coils Annually: Make coil cleaning a yearly spring-cleaning ritual. If you have pets that shed, do it every six months. This is the single most important maintenance task.
• Ensure Proper Airflow: Don’t push your fridge completely flush against the wall. Leave a few inches of space at the back and top for air to circulate.
• Keep the Interior Stocked (But Not Overstuffed): A moderately full fridge holds cold better than an empty one, reducing how often the compressor needs to run. However, don’t pack it so full that air can’t circulate inside.
• Check Door Seals: A leaky door gasket lets cold air escape, forcing the compressor to work overtime. Clean the gaskets regularly and check for a tight seal.

Adopting these habits is a key part of a sustainable why is my refrigerator making a clicking sound approach, as it reduces energy consumption and helps your appliance last longer.

When to Call a Professional Appliance Technician

While many causes of clicking are DIY-friendly, some jobs are best left to the experts. Call a pro if:

• You’ve tried all the steps above and the clicking persists.
• You suspect the compressor has failed (this is a complex, sealed-system repair).
• You are uncomfortable with any of the troubleshooting steps, especially those involving electrical parts.
• The refrigerator is still under warranty. A DIY repair could void it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Refrigerator Clicking Noises

Why is my new refrigerator making a clicking sound?

A new fridge will make some clicking sounds as it settles in. This is often the sound of parts expanding and contracting with temperature changes or the defrost cycle running. If the clicking is repetitive and the fridge isn’t cooling, contact the manufacturer, as it could be a warranty issue.

Can a clicking refrigerator be dangerous?

The clicking itself is not dangerous, as it’s typically the sound of a safety device (the overload protector) doing its job to prevent overheating. However, the underlying cause, like a constantly overheating compressor, could eventually lead to component failure. It’s always best to address the root problem.

How much does it cost to fix a clicking refrigerator?

The cost varies wildly depending on the cause. Cleaning the coils yourself is free. Replacing a start relay is typically a very affordable DIY fix (the part often costs less than $30). A professional repair for a relay or fan motor might cost $150-$300. A compressor replacement is a major repair and can cost $500 or more, at which point you might consider a new refrigerator.

Is it normal for a fridge to click on and off?

Yes, it’s normal to hear a single click when the compressor turns on to start a cooling cycle and another when it turns off. The problem is when you hear a rapid series of clicks or a constant cycle of clicking every few minutes without the normal, long humming sound of the compressor running in between.

Your Kitchen, Quiet and Cool Again

A clicking refrigerator can be a stressful sound, but it’s often a solvable problem. By starting with the simplest fixes—like a thorough coil cleaning—you can often resolve the issue in under an hour without spending a dime.

Working through these steps methodically will not only help you identify the problem but also empower you with a better understanding of how your hardest-working kitchen appliance operates. Take a deep breath, unplug the fridge, and start troubleshooting. Your quiet kitchen is just a few steps away.