Kenmore Refrigerator: making noise

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore refrigerator making unusual noises like buzzing, humming, or rattling? These sounds may indicate problems with the evaporator or condenser fan motors, an ice maker malfunction, or loose components. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage and ensure your appliance operates smoothly.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Ice maker assembly issues are a noticeably reported cause of noise in Kenmore fridges
  • Evaporator and condenser fan issues frequently d by Kenmore-specific repair guides

Possible Causes

Faulty or obstructed evaporator fan motor

How to Identify: Buzzing/humming from inside freezer, noise stops when freezer door is opened or blades do not spin freely; ice buildup or debris visible on blades

Part: Evaporator fan motor and blades

Condenser fan motor problems

How to Identify: Rattling or buzzing from back or bottom of fridge; debris or bent fan blades, motor not spinning freely

Part: Condenser fan motor and blades

Ice maker assembly malfunction

How to Identify: Noise during ice-making cycles, buzzing or chattering from ice maker area; water supply issues may accompany sounds

Part: Ice maker motor or assembly

Loose or misaligned components/vibrations due to leveling

How to Identify: Vibrating, rattling noises; fridge wobbles or contacts nearby surfaces; noise reduces when leveled

Part: Refrigerator body/legs/shelves

Compressor noise or start relay issues

How to Identify: Clicking, knocking, or loud humming from compressor area, fridge cooling issues may accompany noise

Part: Compressor and start relay

DIY Solutions

Clean and inspect evaporator and condenser fans

Moderate 30-60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, vacuum with brush attachment, cloth
  1. Unplug refrigerator and pull it away from the wall
  2. Remove rear or freezer back panel to access fans
  3. Inspect blades for debris or ice and clean with vacuum/cloth
  4. Manually spin blades to check for free movement
  5. Reassemble panels and plug fridge back in
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before accessing internal components

Level the refrigerator and secure loose parts

Easy 10-20 minutes
Tools Needed: spirit level, wrench or pliers
  1. Place a level on top of the refrigerator
  2. Adjust feet/legs until unit is level
  3. Check for loose screws on panels, tighten
  4. Ensure fridge does not contact walls/cabinets

Check ice maker water supply and basic ice maker inspection

Easy 15-30 minutes
Tools Needed: none or basic tools
  1. Observe noise during ice-making cycle
  2. Check water inlet hose for kinks/blockages
  3. Ensure water supply valve pressure is adequate
⚠️ Safety First: Shut off water supply before adjusting lines

Professional Repairs

Replace evaporator or condenser fan motors and related components

Estimated Cost: $60 - $250

Ice maker assembly replacement

Estimated Cost: $80 - $300

Compressor or start relay repair/replacement

Estimated Cost: $150 - $800

When to Call a Professional

Noise persists after checking/cleaning fans and leveling
Clicking/knocking from compressor area
Ice maker assembly suspected to be faulty
Noise accompanied by cooling performance issues

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils and fan blades: Fan noise due to dust buildup and excessive compressor strain
    Frequency: Every 3-6 months
  • Level the refrigerator: Vibration and rattling noise
    Frequency: As needed during moves or installation
  • Inspect ice maker and water lines: Buzzing and operational noise from ice maker issues
    Frequency: Every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Refrigerator making noise?
Common causes include faulty evaporator or condenser fan motors, ice maker issues, and loose components.
How do I fix Kenmore Refrigerator making noise myself?
You can clean the fans, level the fridge, and check the ice maker for blockages.
How much does it cost to fix making noise?
Professional repairs range from $60 to $800, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for making noise?
If noise persists after DIY fixes or if the issue involves complex repairs, contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

100%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Vibration from components (2 mentions)

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Used a wooden shim to dampen vibration on copper tubing.

    Success rate: 50.0%
Analysis based on 2 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Is this the dying song of our Kenmore fridge?
  2. Help w/ Dampening Fridge Part Producing High Pitched Tone (P...

Community Discussions

producing high-pitched tone

Used a wooden shim to dampen vibration on copper tubing.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

User Comments (0)

Share your experience or solution below.

Be the first to comment!