Kenmore Refrigerator: humming sound

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing a humming sound from your Kenmore refrigerator? This low-level buzzing may indicate normal compressor operation or issues with the ice maker. It's often more noticeable in quiet spaces and can vary with the fridge's load and temperature. Understanding the cause can help you determine the right solution, whether it's a simple DIY fix or a professional repair.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Ice maker water valve and ice maker assembly can cause buzzing/humming when malfunctioning or under water supply pressure

Possible Causes

Normal compressor operation (low humming)

How to Identify: Steady low hum that corresponds with compressor cycling; typical during cooling but louder than before or noticed in quiet environments

Part: Compressor

Ice maker water valve or mechanism humming

How to Identify: Humming correlated with ice maker fill cycles or water supply pressure issues; stops when ice maker disabled

Part: Ice maker assembly / water inlet valve

Installation vibration or lack of level

How to Identify: Vibration noise transmitted to floor or nearby objects; reduced when leveling or adding anti-vibration mat

Part: Installation/leveling feet

DIY Solutions

Clean condenser coils and fan

Moderate 30-45 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with brush attachment, screwdriver (if needed), soft brush
  1. Unplug refrigerator
  2. Move fridge away from wall to access rear
  3. Use vacuum and brush to remove dust from condenser coils and fan area
  4. Ensure fan blades are free to spin and no debris remains
  5. Push fridge back and plug in
⚠️ Safety First: Unplug before cleaning

Level refrigerator and reduce vibration

Easy 10-15 minutes
Tools Needed: level, wrench/adjuster for feet, optional anti‑vibration mat
  1. Place level on top of fridge to check tilt
  2. Adjust leveling feet until fridge is stable and level
  3. Place anti‑vibration mat under feet if needed to reduce transmitted vibration
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure stable to avoid tipping

Inspect ice maker water supply and disable if needed

Moderate 15-20 minutes
Tools Needed: pliers, screwdriver
  1. Locate ice maker water valve and supply line
  2. Check for kinks/obstructions and correct water pressure issues
  3. If unnecessary, turn off ice maker and observe if humming stops
⚠️ Safety First: Turn off water supply before disconnecting lines

Professional Repairs

Fan motor replacement

Estimated Cost: $50 - $200 parts + labor

Compressor relay or compressor repair

Estimated Cost: $100 - $500+ depending on compressor

When to Call a Professional

Humming accompanied by poor cooling or frequent cycling
Noise persists after cleaning and leveling
Signs of fan blade damage or compressor abnormal operation

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Dust accumulation that increases fan and compressor workload
    Frequency: twice a year
  • Ensure fridge is level: Vibration‑related noise
    Frequency: once on installation and after moving

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator humming sound?
The humming may be due to normal compressor operation, ice maker activity, or installation vibrations.
How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator humming sound myself?
Try cleaning the condenser coils, leveling the fridge, or inspecting the ice maker water supply for issues.
How much does it cost to fix humming sound?
Professional repairs range from $50 to $500+, depending on whether it's a fan motor or compressor issue.
When should I call a technician for humming sound?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the humming intensifies, it's best to consult a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Evaporator fan motor is running but may be obstructed by ice buildup
  • Compressor is operating normally but may produce a humming sound during its cycle
  • Condenser fan motor is malfunctioning or blocked

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Check for ice buildup around the evaporator fan. Unplug the refrigerator, remove any ice, and ensure the fan is unobstructed.

  2. Listen for the compressor sound. If it is running without any unusual noises, it may just be normal operation. If the sound is excessive, consider consulting a professional.

  3. Inspect the condenser fan motor for any debris or blockages. Clean the area and ensure the fan spins freely. Replace the fan motor if it is faulty.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Kenmore refrigerator makes humming/vibrating sound when the ...

Community Discussions

humming/vibrating sound when the door is closed

Ice buildup blocking the evaporator fan; removing ice resolved the issue.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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