Refrigerator Not Cooling And Making Clicking Noise

Introduction

A refrigerator that’s not cooling properly while making a clicking noise is a common household headache. It means your food isn’t being kept at a safe temperature, potentially leading to spoilage and wasted money. The clicking sound often indicates a problem with a component trying to start up. This is a situation you need to address quickly to prevent food waste and further damage to your appliance. Don’t panic, though! Often, the fix is something you can handle yourself before calling a professional.

Common Causes of Refrigerator Not Cooling and Making Clicking Noise

Here are some common reasons why your refrigerator might be struggling to cool and making that unsettling clicking sound:

Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris can build up on the coils, preventing proper heat dissipation.
Faulty Start Relay: The start relay helps the compressor kick on. A faulty one can cause clicking and prevent cooling.
Bad Compressor: The compressor is the heart of the cooling system. If it’s failing, it might click and not run.
Defective Start Capacitor: The start capacitor gives the compressor an extra boost to start. A bad one prevents startup.
Frozen Evaporator Coils: Ice buildup can restrict airflow and cooling.
Blocked Condenser Fan: The condenser fan helps cool the compressor. If blocked, the compressor can overheat.
Damaged Evaporator Fan Motor: The evaporator fan circulates cold air inside the fridge. If broken, cooling will be uneven or nonexistent.
Overload Protector Tripped: This device protects the compressor from overheating. It can trip and click if there’s a problem.
Power Supply Issues: Inconsistent power can cause the compressor to struggle and click.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to identify your problem accurately:

The refrigerator compartment is warmer than usual.
The freezer compartment is also warmer than usual (or completely warm).
You hear a distinct clicking sound coming from the back or bottom of the refrigerator.
The refrigerator runs intermittently (starts and stops frequently).
The refrigerator is not making any cooling sounds (like humming or whirring).
The back of the refrigerator feels excessively hot.
There’s frost buildup inside the freezer (indicating potential defrost issues).

How to Fix Refrigerator Not Cooling and Making Clicking Noise Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the issue:

Unplug the Refrigerator: Safety first! Disconnect the power before doing anything else.
Clean the Condenser Coils: Locate the coils (usually on the back or bottom). Use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to remove dust and debris.
Check the Condenser Fan: Make sure the fan blades spin freely and aren’t obstructed. Remove any debris blocking the fan.
Listen to the Compressor: Plug the refrigerator back in (briefly) and listen to the compressor. Does it click repeatedly without starting? This could indicate a faulty start relay, capacitor or failing compressor. Unplug again.
Inspect the Start Relay and Capacitor (Proceed with caution!): The start relay and capacitor are often located together near the compressor. Accessing these parts requires removing a cover. If you’re not comfortable with this, skip to the next step. Visually inspect the relay and capacitor for any signs of burning or damage.
Check the Evaporator Fan: Open the freezer and listen for the evaporator fan. If it’s not running, it could be the problem. Gently try spinning the fan blade. If it’s stiff, it may be faulty.
Defrost the Refrigerator: If you suspect frozen evaporator coils, unplug the refrigerator and leave the doors open for 24-48 hours to allow it to defrost completely. Place towels around the fridge to absorb water.
Check the Door Seals: Make sure the door seals are clean and create a tight seal when the doors are closed. A poor seal can let warm air in. Clean the seals with warm, soapy water.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Make sure there’s enough space around the refrigerator for proper airflow (a few inches on all sides).
Check the Overload Protector: The overload protector is usually located near the compressor. Sometimes, it can be reset manually after it trips. Consult your refrigerator’s manual for instructions.
Power Supply: Test the outlet with another appliance to ensure it’s supplying power. If the outlet is fine, check the refrigerator’s power cord for damage.
Observe for Further Clicking: After attempting the above steps, plug the refrigerator back in and observe. Note any changes in the clicking sound or cooling performance.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Before thinking about replacements, try these free methods:

Reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 30 minutes to reset the system.
Cleaning: Regularly clean the condenser coils and door seals.
Recalibration (If Applicable): Some refrigerators have temperature calibration settings. Check your manual.
Inspection Tips: Regularly inspect the refrigerator for ice buildup, leaks, or unusual noises.
Maintenance Basics: Keep the refrigerator properly ventilated and avoid overfilling it.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the clicking persists, and the refrigerator still isn’t cooling after trying the above steps, the compressor itself might be failing. Compressor replacement is a complex and expensive repair, often costing $300-$800, including labor. Other parts that might need replacing include the start relay ($20-$50), start capacitor ($10-$30), or evaporator fan motor ($50-$150). Before replacing any parts, consider the age and condition of your refrigerator. It might be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit, especially if it’s older than 10 years.

Safety Warning

Keep these safety precautions in mind:

Always unplug the refrigerator before working on it.
Avoid working on electrical components if you’re not comfortable.
Be careful when handling tools.
Keep the area around the refrigerator dry to prevent electrical shock.

Tools You May Need

Here’s a simple list of useful tools:

Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Wrench or socket set
Multimeter (for testing electrical components – use with caution!)
Gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

Q: Why is my refrigerator clicking but not cooling? A: It usually indicates a problem with the compressor starting system (relay, capacitor, or the compressor itself).
Q: How often should I clean my refrigerator coils? A: At least every 6 months, or more frequently if you have pets.
Q: Is it normal for the back of my refrigerator to be warm? A: Yes, it’s normal for the back to be slightly warm, but not excessively hot.
Q: What should I do if my refrigerator is still not cooling after trying these steps? A: Consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a refrigerator that’s not cooling and making a clicking noise can seem daunting, but many common causes are easy to fix yourself. By following these steps, you can potentially save money and avoid the hassle of calling a technician. However, if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical appliances, or if the problem persists after trying these solutions, it’s always best to consult a professional.