Refrigerator Making Clicking Noise

Refrigerator Clicking
Listen to where the clicking is coming from. If it makes a clicking in intervals or If it sounds like it is down low behind the refrigerator it is likely the ptc Start relay for the compressor. If it sounds like it is coming from inside your refrigerator skip over the start relay. First you must try to identify whether it is coming from inside or out. Some noises are normal such as groaning in the freezer, this can happen when the compressor shuts off and this is normal. Another frequent noise in some models is a gurgling sound. This can be several things the defrost heater melting the evaporator and the sound is the water running down the drain. Another thing it might be is the refrigerant being converted from liquid to gas and running down the refrigerant line this is normal. A sizzling sound can also be heard and that is the defrost heater melting the evaporator ice, again normal.

Start Relay
The clicking could be the start relay/ ptc / relay. If the start relay/ptc relay is bad, the compressor will not start, and you will hear a clicking noise in 2-5 minute intervals. The clicking noise is the overload cutting the compressor off when it overheats from trying to start with a bad start rela/ptc relay. To find out if this is bad first unplug the refrigerator.

On most refrigerators the compressor is located in the bottom of the refrigerator. This can usually be accessed from the rear. You will need to pull your refrigerator away from the wall.
First raise the front leveling feet by using a screwdriver or crescent wrench. This will allow you to roll your refrigerator easily. Now that you have access to the back unplug the refrigerator.

Remove the lower rear panel. Usually, a series of screws around the perimeter. Set the cover and screws aside.


Locate the compressor it is usually black round and about 12" tall. See the photo above.

The start relay/ptc relay is on the side of the compressor, you will see wires going to this. Unplug the wiring. Now the easy way to tell if it is bad is to shake it. If it rattles, it's bad and needs to be replaced. Inspect it carefully for any burn marks or if it smells burnt replace it. If not, most of the time it's ok.

Rather than saying the compressors bad, you might want to replace it anyways because it does not cost much.
A quick check on the compressor is to remove the start relay. This video will show you how to use a multimeter
Check from each pin to a good ground on the cabinet. There should be no continuity if there is the compressor is bad.

Testing a refrigerator compressor typically requires some basic knowledge of electrical components and tools. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to test a refrigerator compressor:

  1. Safety precautions: Before starting any work on the refrigerator, unplug it from the power source to avoid electrical shock.
  2. Access the compressor: Locate the compressor, which is usually located at the back of the refrigerator, near the bottom. It is a cylindrical-shaped component with pipes connected to it.
  3. Visual inspection: Inspect the compressor for any visible signs of damage or leakage. Look for oil stains, loose connections, or burnt components. If you notice any of these issues, it may indicate a problem with the compressor.
  4. Check power supply: Use a multimeter set to measure AC voltage to check if the compressor is receiving power. With the refrigerator still unplugged, access the compressor terminals. Connect the multimeter probes to the terminals, ensuring a good contact. Plug in the refrigerator and turn it on. The multimeter should display the voltage (usually 110-120V or 220-240V) if the compressor is getting power. If there is no voltage reading, it suggests an electrical issue.
  5. Measure resistance: Set the multimeter to measure resistance (ohms). Disconnect the refrigerator from the power source. Locate the three compressor terminals, which are labeled "C," "S," and "R." Connect the multimeter probes to any two of these terminals and record the resistance reading. Then, move one of the probes to the remaining terminal and record the resistance again. The resistance readings should be within a specific range provided by the manufacturer. If there is no resistance or an extremely high or low reading, it indicates a fault in the compressor.
  6. Check for continuity: Set the multimeter to measure continuity (ohms). This test checks if there is a continuous electrical path within the compressor. Again, make sure the refrigerator is disconnected from the power source. Touch one probe to any terminal and the other probe to the metal casing of the compressor or a clean unpainted part of the refrigerator. There should be continuity (a low resistance reading). If there is no continuity, it indicates a problem with the compressor.
  7. Listen for sounds: Plug in the refrigerator and turn it on. Listen for any unusual sounds coming from the compressor. A working compressor should produce a smooth, low humming sound. Any rattling, grinding, or clicking noises could indicate a problem.

It's important to note that testing a refrigerator compressor requires some technical skills, and if you're unsure or uncomfortable with any step, it's best to seek assistance from a professional appliance repair technician.

A 3 in 1 start relay can also be used as a substitution. The 3 in 1 start relay plugs into the 3 terminals on the compressor and the other 2 leads connect to the old relay. Just make sure it is rated for the horsepower of the compressor. If you replace it and it doesn't work, then the compressor is bad and you'll need you call a repairman. (Note that compressors are very costly and are normally not worth fixing).

Condensor Fan
The condenser fan could be making a clicking or humming noise. The condenser fan is inexpensive and easy to check and replace. Usually one or both section may not be cooling or getting cold enough. The condenser fan may have stopped completely. First set your refrigerator to the coldest setting, close the door and the fan should come on. The condenser fan is usually located down low, in the rear of the refrigerator. Listen carefully, if it is not running or in making a noise follow these instruction to test and replace your condenser fan. Start off by moving your refrigerator away from the wall. You will need to raise the feet in the front to make it easier to roll. This can be done with a screwdriver or crescent wrench.

Replacing a condenser fan in a refrigerator can be done by following these general steps:
Safety first: Before beginning any repairs, make sure to unplug the refrigerator from the power source to avoid any electrical accidents.
Locate the condenser fan: The condenser fan is typically located at the back of the refrigerator, near the compressor. It is responsible for cooling the condenser coils, which help remove heat from the refrigerator.

Access the fan:
Remove any the lower rear cover. Remove anything that may be obstructing access to the condenser fan. With the refrigerator plugged in and turned on to its coldest setting and the door closed. Do you hear the noise coming from the fan? This is where you would check it for power. Set your multimeter to ac volts. This video will show you how to use a multimeter.
Connect 1 lead to each power wire. Plug refrigerator back in and turn to highest setting with door closed. You should have power. If you do not check your main control. Do you hear the noise?

Disconnect the old fan: Once you have access to the condenser fan, you'll need to disconnect it from the wiring harness. Depending on the model, there may be a plug or a few wires that need to be disconnected. Take a pic of the connections to ensure correct reinstallation later.
Remove the old fan: Typically, the fan will be held in place by screws or clips. Unscrew or unclip the old fan from its mounting bracket or housing. Carefully remove the old fan from the refrigerator.
Install the new fan: Take the new condenser fan and position it in the same location where the old fan was removed. Use the screws or clips to secure it in place, ensuring it is properly aligned.
Connect the new fan: Reconnect the wiring harness to the new fan, matching the correct wires or plug connections. Double-check that the connections are secure.
Reassemble: Put back any covers or panels that were removed earlier to access the condenser fan. Ensure they are properly aligned and securely fastened.
Plug in the refrigerator: Once you have completed the replacement and reassembly, plug the refrigerator back into the power source. Test the new fan: Turn on the refrigerator and listen for the sound of the new condenser fan running. Also, check for proper airflow around the condenser coils at the back of the refrigerator. If the fan is functioning correctly, you should feel airflow and hear the fan running.

Top Freezer Evaporator Fan

Evaporater pan locationCheck here if your top freezer is making a noise or not cooling. With the refrigerator plugged in and freezer on to its coldest setting and the door closed. You can push the button in to simulate the door closed. Do you hear the noise coming from the fan?
Located inside your refrigerator Freezer. Turn off power. Remove the screws holding the rear panel. You will need to remove all contents and the ice maker if equipped. The freezer evaporator fan is mounted behind the rear panel.

Disconnect wire for the evaporator fan
Tilt panel forward and disconnect wire connector. This connector is what sends power to the fan. Set your multimeter to ac volts. This video will show you how to use a multimeter. Plug one lead into each side of the connector. You should have power. If you do replace the fan. The freezer door needs to be closed for the fan to come on. Press button to simulate door closed. With freezer at highest setting this will activate the fan to come on. You should have power. If you do replace the fan. If not check main control.

Push in tabs Push tabs in to remove fan.
Remove screws holding fan in.
Install new fan its place. Place in freezer tilt back and plug in connector. Reinstall rear panel.

Refrigerator fresh food section evaporator fan
This fan is located inside your refrigerator section. Turn off Power. There is a fan located in the fresh food section of your refrigerator. This fan blows cold air into this section when the thermostat setting calls for it. To see if it is working. Hold the door button closed to simulate the door being closed. Turn to the highest setting. You should feel air blowing. Do you hear the noise. To test and replace this fan do the following.


Remove the screw holding the rear panel. Slide up and out to remove.You will need to remove everything including racks.

Now you have access to the fan. Unplug wire connector. Verify power is going to the fan. Set your multimeter to ac volts. This video will show you how to use a multimeter. Plug one lead into each side of the connector. The freezer door needs to be closed in order for the fan to come on. Press button to simulate door closed. With freezer at highest setting this will activate the fan to come on. You should have power. If you do replace the fan. If not check main control. To replace fan remove screw and put new fan in its place. Reinstall rear cover. Put everything back in.