Whirlpool Refrigerator: making clicking sound

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Whirlpool refrigerator is making a repetitive clicking sound every few minutes, it could indicate several issues. This noise may occur when the compressor attempts to start, during ice maker operations, or during defrost cycles. Understanding the causes can help you decide whether to attempt a DIY fix or call a professional.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Whirlpool Models

  • Whirlpool official guidance notes repetitive clicking can be normal due to dual evaporator valve regulation between compartments, and water valve clicking if ice maker without water supply.

Possible Causes

Faulty start relay / overload protector causing compressor to repeatedly try to start

How to Identify: Hear loud clicks every few minutes with limited compressor running (cooling inefficiency; clicking occurs near compressor area at back

Part: Compressor start relay / overload protector

Dirty/blocked or failing condenser fan causing compressor overheating and cycling

How to Identify: Clicking occurs with fan obstruction or lack of airflow; visual dust/debris buildup on fan blades and fan not spinning freely

Part: Condenser fan motor/blades

Normal operational clicking (defrost timer, ice maker valve, evaporator cycling)

How to Identify: Soft, occasional clicks that correspond with defrost cycle or ice maker water valve actions; not continuous and fridge cools normally

Part: Defrost timer/ice maker components/evaporator valve

Ice maker water inlet valve clicking

How to Identify: Clicking when ice maker attempts to fill water; pronounced if ice maker is on but water supply is disconnected

Part: Water inlet valve

Failing compressor (seized/overload due to internal fault)

How to Identify: Persistent clicking with poor or no cooling and compressor not running; clicking accompanied by heat at compressor area

Part: Compressor

DIY Solutions

Inspect and Clean Condenser Fan

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, vacuum or brush
  1. Unplug refrigerator and pull it away from the wall.
  2. Locate condenser fan at back/bottom of fridge.
  3. Clear dust, debris, or obstructions from fan blades with vacuum and brush.
  4. Manually spin the fan to ensure it rotates freely.
  5. Plug in fridge and observe if clicking noise persists.
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before accessing fan area

Check for Normal Operational Clicking

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Listen to determine whether clicking is occasional and correlated with defrost cycles or ice maker activity.
  2. Note if refrigerator cooling performance is normal and clicking is soft rather than loud.
  3. If related to ice maker filling and the fridge is not connected to water, consider turning off ice maker feature to test.
  4. If clicking appears normal operationally and does not coincide with other problems, monitor over time.

Replace Faulty Start Relay (Advanced DIY)

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: screwdriver, socket set, replacement relay part specific to model
  1. Unplug refrigerator and pull out from wall.
  2. Remove rear access panel to expose compressor area.
  3. Locate and remove the start relay from the compressor.
  4. Install the correct replacement relay for your Whirlpool model.
  5. Reassemble and plug in fridge to test if clicking stops.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct part match for model

Professional Repairs

Compressor Diagnosis and Replacement

Estimated Cost: $500 - $1,200

Control Board Repair/Replacement

Estimated Cost: $300 - $600

When to Call a Professional

Clicking persists after cleaning/relay replacement
Refrigerator not cooling properly
Compressor appears to overheat or not run

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean condenser coils: Overheating and fan blockage that can lead to abnormal clicking
    Frequency: every 6 months
  • Ensure fridge is level: Vibration-related noises that can be mistaken for clicking
    Frequency: once at installation or relocation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool Refrigerator making clicking sound?
The clicking sound can be due to a faulty start relay, a dirty condenser fan, or normal operational clicking from the ice maker or defrost timer.
How do I fix Whirlpool Refrigerator making clicking sound myself?
You can inspect and clean the condenser fan, check for normal operational clicking, or replace a faulty start relay if you're experienced.
How much does it cost to fix making clicking sound?
Professional repairs for this issue can range from $500 to $1,200 for compressor replacement or $300 to $600 for control board repair.
When should I call a technician for making clicking sound?
Call a technician if the clicking persists after DIY attempts, or if you suspect a failing compressor or control board.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

50%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Professional

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty start relay
  • Defective compressor
  • Loose or damaged wiring

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the start relay. Unplug the refrigerator, locate the relay on the compressor, and test it with a multimeter. If it's faulty, replace it with a new one.

  2. Check the compressor for any signs of damage. If the compressor is clicking but not starting, it may need to be replaced. This involves disconnecting the power, removing the compressor, and installing a new one.

  3. Examine the wiring for any loose connections or visible damage. Secure any loose wires and replace damaged wiring as necessary.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

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

  1. Refrigerator making clicking sound after power outage

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