Kenmore Refrigerator Clicking Noise

Introduction

A clicking noise coming from your Kenmore refrigerator can be concerning. It often indicates a problem with one of its components. This noise might be intermittent, continuous, or louder at certain times. Ignoring this sound can lead to bigger problems, such as food spoilage or damage to the refrigerator’s internal parts. This guide will walk you through the common causes of this clicking noise and provide step-by-step instructions to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue yourself. Addressing the problem early can save you money on repairs and prevent the inconvenience of a malfunctioning refrigerator.

Common Causes of Kenmore Refrigerator Clicking Noise

Here are some common reasons why your Kenmore refrigerator might be making a clicking noise:

• Start Relay: The start relay helps the compressor kickstart. A failing relay can cause a clicking sound as it tries repeatedly to engage the compressor.
• Overload Protector: This device protects the compressor from overheating. If it’s malfunctioning, it can click as it cycles on and off.
• Compressor Issues: A failing compressor might make clicking noises as it struggles to run. This is often a more serious issue.
• Defrost Timer: The defrost timer controls the defrost cycle. A clicking noise might indicate it’s stuck or malfunctioning.
• Defrost Heater: If the defrost heater is attempting to cycle on it may click, especially if the heater element is damaged.
• Ice Maker: If you have an ice maker, the clicking sound could be related to its operation, such as the ice maker arm cycling or water valve opening and closing.
• Water Inlet Valve: The water inlet valve controls the flow of water to the ice maker and water dispenser. It can click as it opens and closes.
• Fan Motors: Sometimes, fan motors (condenser fan or evaporator fan) can make clicking sounds if their blades are hitting something or if the motor is failing.
• Damper Control: The damper controls the flow of cold air into the refrigerator. A failing damper motor can make clicking noises.
• Loose Components: Occasionally, a loose component like a panel or a wire harness can vibrate and create a clicking sound.

Symptoms Checklist

Use this checklist to help identify the issue accurately:

• Is the clicking noise constant or intermittent?
• Does the clicking noise get louder or more frequent at certain times? (e.g., after opening the door, during the defrost cycle)
• Is the refrigerator cooling properly?
• Is the freezer cooling properly?
• Is the clicking noise coming from the back, bottom, or inside the refrigerator?
• Does the clicking noise stop if you unplug the refrigerator?
• Have you recently noticed any water leaks or ice buildup?
• Does the ice maker work as expected?

How to Fix Kenmore Refrigerator Clicking Noise Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot the clicking noise:

1. Unplug the Refrigerator: For safety, always unplug the refrigerator before inspecting or working on any components.
2. Locate the Source of the Noise: Listen carefully to pinpoint where the clicking is coming from (back, bottom, inside).
3. Inspect the Start Relay and Overload Protector (Compressor Area): These are usually attached to the compressor. Look for any signs of burning, bulging, or damage. A faulty start relay can cause a click.
4. Check the Compressor: If you suspect the compressor, observe if it’s running smoothly or struggling to start. A failing compressor will often emit distinct clicking sounds.
5. Examine the Defrost Timer: Usually located inside the refrigerator or behind a panel, manually advance the defrost timer. If the clicking stops or changes, the timer could be the issue.
6. Inspect the Defrost Heater: Unplug refrigerator. Remove the back panel inside the freezer. Check the defrost heater for signs of damage or excessive frost buildup. The heater is typically located at the bottom of the cooling coils.
7. Check the Ice Maker: If you have an ice maker, turn it off and see if the clicking stops. If it does, the problem is likely related to the ice maker components.
8. Inspect the Water Inlet Valve: This is usually located at the back of the refrigerator where the water line connects. Listen for clicking sounds when the ice maker or water dispenser is activated.
9. Check the Fan Motors: Locate the condenser fan (usually at the back of the refrigerator) and the evaporator fan (inside the freezer). Make sure the fan blades are clear of any obstructions. Manually spin the blades to see if they move freely.
10. Examine the Damper Control: This is usually located inside the refrigerator near the air vents. Look for any signs of damage or obstruction.
11. Tighten Loose Components: Check for any loose panels, screws, or wire harnesses that could be vibrating and causing the clicking noise.
12. Clean the Condenser Coils: Dust and debris on the condenser coils can cause the compressor to work harder and potentially make noises. Clean the coils with a vacuum cleaner brush attachment.
13. Reset the Refrigerator: After inspecting the components, plug the refrigerator back in and see if the clicking noise persists. Sometimes, a simple reset can resolve the issue.
14. Monitor the Refrigerator: After taking the above steps, monitor your refrigerator for a day or two to see if the clicking noise returns.

Fix the Issue Without Buying Parts

Here are some things you can try before considering replacing parts:

• Reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 30 minutes and then plug it back in. This can sometimes reset the electronic components.
• Cleaning: Clean the condenser coils (usually at the back or bottom) with a vacuum cleaner to improve airflow and reduce strain on the compressor.
• Inspection: Carefully inspect all the components mentioned above for any signs of damage or obstruction.
• Door Seals: Check the door seals for proper closure. A leaky seal can cause the refrigerator to work harder and potentially make noises.

When Replacement Might Be Necessary

If the clicking noise persists after troubleshooting, or if you’ve identified a specific faulty component, replacement may be necessary. Here are some parts that commonly fail and their estimated replacement costs (USD):

• Start Relay: $15 – $40
• Overload Protector: $10 – $30
• Defrost Timer: $20 – $50
• Water Inlet Valve: $30 – $70
• Fan Motor: $40 – $100

Note: Compressor replacements are significantly more expensive, often requiring a professional technician and costing $300 – $800.

Safety Warning

• Always unplug the refrigerator before performing any repairs or inspections.
• Avoid working on electrical components with wet hands or on a wet floor.
• If you are uncomfortable working with electrical components, consult a qualified technician.
• When working with the back of the refrigerator, be careful of sharp edges.

Tools You May Need

Here are some tools that might be helpful for troubleshooting:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Pliers
• Vacuum cleaner with brush attachment
• Multimeter (optional, for testing electrical components)
• Work gloves

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions:

• Q: Why is my refrigerator clicking even when it’s not running? A: It could be the defrost timer cycling or the water inlet valve opening and closing.
• Q: The clicking noise is coming from the back of the refrigerator. What could it be? A: Likely the compressor, start relay, or overload protector.
• Q: How do I know if my compressor is failing? A: If the compressor is making loud clicking noises and the refrigerator is not cooling properly, it’s likely failing.
• Q: Can I continue to use the refrigerator if it’s making a clicking noise? A: It’s best to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential food spoilage.
• Q: How often should I clean the condenser coils? A: At least twice a year, or more often if you have pets.
• Q: I still hear the clicking after cleaning the coils. What’s next? A: Check the start relay, overload protector, and fan motors. If the problem continues, consult a technician.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this guide has provided you with a clear understanding of the potential causes of a clicking noise in your Kenmore refrigerator and steps to troubleshoot the issue. By following these steps, you might be able to resolve the problem yourself and avoid costly repairs. If you’re still unsure or uncomfortable with any of these steps, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified appliance repair technician.

Youtube Video: