Freezer Making A Humming Noise

A homeowner frustrated by a noisy freezer, trying to understand the source of the humming.

Introduction

A humming noise coming from your freezer can be annoying and worrisome. While some freezer noise is normal, a persistent or loud humming could indicate a problem. Ignoring it can lead to bigger issues, potentially affecting your food’s safety and your energy bill. This guide will help you diagnose the source of the humming and walk you through simple steps to resolve it before it becomes a major headache. Lets get started!

Common Causes of freezer making a humming noise

Here are some common reasons why your freezer might be humming:

The Compressor: The compressor is the heart of your freezer and can hum as it works to cool the inside.
The Condenser Fan Motor: This fan helps cool the compressor. It can hum if the motor is struggling.
The Evaporator Fan Motor: Located inside the freezer, this fan circulates cold air. A faulty motor can cause a humming sound.
Ice Buildup: Excess ice around the fan blades can cause the fan to struggle and hum.
Loose Parts: Something inside or outside the freezer might be vibrating against another part.
Dirty Condenser Coils: Dust and debris on the coils can cause the compressor to work harder, leading to a hum.
Location and Leveling: The freezer needs to be on a level surface, as unlevel position can lead to extra vibrations and noise.
Start Relay: This component helps start the compressor. If it’s failing, it can cause a humming noise.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the cause of the humming:

Is the humming constant, or does it come and go?
Is the humming getting louder over time?
Do you hear any other noises, like rattling or buzzing?
Is the freezer cooling properly?
Is there excessive ice buildup inside the freezer?
Have you recently moved the freezer?

How to Fix freezer making a humming noise Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to troubleshoot the humming noise:

Unplug the Freezer: For safety, always unplug the freezer before working on it.
Check the Leveling: Use a level to ensure the freezer is sitting flat on the floor. Adjust the feet if needed.
Clean the Condenser Coils: Locate the coils (usually on the back or bottom of the freezer) and vacuum them thoroughly.
Inspect the Condenser Fan: Make sure the fan is free from obstructions and spins easily. If it’s dirty, clean it.
Check the Evaporator Fan (Inside the Freezer): Remove the back panel inside the freezer. Check the fan for ice buildup or obstructions.
Defrost the Freezer: If there’s excessive ice buildup, defrost the freezer completely.
Listen to the Compressor: Carefully listen to the compressor at the back of the freezer. Is the humming coming from there?
Check for Loose Parts: Look for any loose screws, panels, or components that might be vibrating. Tighten or secure them.
Inspect the Drain Pan: The drain pan under the freezer can sometimes vibrate. Ensure it’s properly seated and not touching anything.
Relocate the Freezer: Ensure the freezer isnt too close to a wall. Some space helps with ventilation and reduces noise.
Reset the Freezer: After completing above steps, plug it back in and let it run. Sometimes a simple reset solves the issue.
Listen Again: After a few hours, listen to the freezer again. Has the humming decreased or gone away?

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some ways to address the humming noise without immediately buying replacement parts:

Reset: Unplug the freezer for 30 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the system and resolve minor issues.
Cleaning: Regularly clean the condenser coils to ensure the compressor doesn’t have to work harder than necessary.
Recalibration: Check the temperature settings. Make sure they are set correctly; extreme settings can cause the compressor to run excessively.
Inspection Tips: Regularly inspect the freezer for ice buildup, loose parts, and other potential problems.
Maintenance Basics: Keep the freezer clean and well-maintained to prevent future issues.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the humming persists after trying the above steps, a component may be failing. Here are some possibilities:

Compressor: Replacing the compressor is usually the most expensive repair, potentially costing between $200 – $500.
Condenser Fan Motor: Replacement typically ranges from $50 to $150.
Evaporator Fan Motor: Replacement typically ranges from $40 to $120.
Start Relay: A faulty relay, if determined cause of the humming, can cost $20 to $60 to replace.

Safety Warning

Always unplug the freezer before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Avoid working on electrical components if you are not comfortable with electrical work.
Be careful when handling sharp tools or components.
Keep the area around the freezer dry to avoid electric shock.

Tools You May Need

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
Vacuum cleaner with attachments
Level
Wrench (for adjusting freezer feet)

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about freezer humming:

Q: Why is my new freezer humming? A: New freezers can hum louder initially as the compressor breaks in. If it persists, check the leveling and ensure nothing is vibrating against it.
Q: Is a humming freezer using more energy? A: A freezer that’s working harder than normal (due to dirty coils or a failing component) can use more energy.
Q: How do I know if the humming is serious? A: If the humming is getting louder, more frequent, or accompanied by other issues (like poor cooling), it’s a sign of a potential problem.
Q: Can I fix a humming freezer myself? A: Many causes of humming can be addressed with simple troubleshooting steps. If the problem persists or involves electrical components, it’s best to consult a professional.

Conclusion

Don’t let a humming freezer drive you crazy! By following this guide, you can identify the source of the noise and take steps to resolve it yourself. Remember, a little maintenance can go a long way in preventing future problems. If you’ve tried these steps and the humming persists, it might be time to call in a qualified appliance technician. Good luck!