Should a fridge be silent sometimes?

Author: Ms. Stacy Miller  |  Last update: Saturday, September 6, 2025

Is your fridge silent? Normally your fridge should 'hum' periodically throughout the day. A silent fridge freezer is never good news and, in this instance, it could be that the compressor is broken.

Is it normal for a fridge to go silent?

No, it is not normal. A brand new fridge is supposed to be quiet. As technology and technics develop, any average refrigerator manufacturer can manage the noise at a low level. When you have a brand new fridge that is making noise, contact the seller, and get a replacement, don't fool yourself that the noise is normal.

Are fridges supposed to make noise all the time?

All fridges make some noise. It's the sound of the compressor doing its job. If the noise is excessive then you may have a fault and will need to contact your supplier.

Should I hear my refrigerator running all the time?

But if your refrigerator seems to be “running” all the time, then the appliance is working too hard. While having a refrigerator that works overtime might give the impression the appliance is especially robust, it's actually an indication that something could be wrong with your refrigerator parts.

Do fridges sometimes stop making noise?

It's normal. It usually gets quiet when the doors are open. Some refrigerates will stop when the doors are open. This is to help keep the refrigerator smelling fresh and to stay cooler. Most air filters lack keeping the fridge smelling fresh.

Ask the Experts - Why is my refrigerator noisy

Should a refrigerator be quiet?

A mild hum: The most common sound you'll hear from the fridge is the quiet hum from the compressor. It means your fridge is working properly. However, if the humming gets loud enough that you can hear it from other rooms, it could indicate that something is wrong with the compressor.

Why is there no sound coming from my refrigerator?

So, if the sound stops for good, or if the sound goes from faint to a constant or very loud humming noise that does not shut off, it may be a sign the compressor is broken or malfunctioning. If you suspect you need a new compressor, it may be time to contact a refrigerator repair professional for assistance.

How often should a refrigerator fan run?

Your fridge should run from around 35% of the day to around 85% of the day. A refrigerator that gets opened more frequently has to operate more often to lower the temperature of warmer items, so this amount varies. However, no fridge should run all the time.

How do I know if my refrigerator is running properly?

When a refrigerator is not maintaining its proper temperature, there are a few warning signs you may notice, such as:
  1. Food spoiling quickly, possibly causing odors.
  2. Excessive condensation on food and beverage packaging.
  3. Refrigerator interior temperatures are lukewarm or room temperature.

How do I know if my fridge is dying?

If your fridge is not cooling or maintaining the correct temperature, it's a clear sign of trouble. Food spoiling quickly or a noticeable difference in the fridge's internal temperature are indicators. This could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat, blocked vents, or a failing compressor.

What is the average noise level of a refrigerator?

The average commercial refrigerator operates between 45 dB and 75 decibels; most domestic fridges range from 32db to 47dB. The louder the refrigerator, the more disruptive it may be in a shared workplace or if it's in a quiet residential area.

How to tell if a fridge compressor is bad?

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.

How long should fridge make noise?

A cracking or popping sound can be heard when the evaporator coils on a Top Freezer, No Frost refrigerator model are cooling after a defrost cycle. Buzzing noises can be heard during and after getting water from the door dispenser. The noise should not last longer than 7 seconds after you stop using the dispenser.

What number should a fridge be on?

Fridge temperature settings are generally numbered from 1 to 5, with 5 being the coldest. A fully stocked fridge may need to be set to a higher setting (around 3 or 4), whereas one with more space is best suited to temperature setting 2 or 3.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?

The first thing you should do is check if the power supply to your refrigerator is working properly. Make sure that none of the plugs or wiring are loose or damaged, and check that the power outlet is still functional. If everything looks fine on that front, then it could be a problem with the refrigerator itself.

How often should I hear my refrigerator running?

How often should a fridge start and stop? All fridges are 'on' most of the time. And by that I mean — it is typical for a refrigerator compressor to run anywhere between 4 and 8 hours before turning 'off'. Newer models run even more frequently — about 80% of the time.

Is a refrigerator supposed to run all the time?

For Refrigerators and Freezers to maintain the proper temperature, the compressor will run much of the time. Refrigerators and Freezers have compressors that are designed to run 80% to 90% of the time.

How do I know if my fridge fan is not working?

One of the most common indicators of a malfunctioning refrigerator fan is uneven cooling. For instance, you might observe certain areas of the refrigerator being inconsistently cold or warm. Another noticeable sign is a warm fridge compartment, despite having proper temperature settings.

Should I always hear my fridge?

A mild humming sound coming from a fridge is normal because it is the sound of the compressor. However, if the sound becomes so loud that you can hear it from next door, your compressor needs to be repaired.

Is it normal for a fridge to make no noise?

Refrigerators will make some noise whilst operating. If your fridge is making no noise, the interior is not cold enough but the light is on, it may be an indication that there is a fault. For example, your compressor may be damaged.

Why is my fridge not making sound?

Refrigerators will make some noise whilst operating. If your fridge is making no noise, the interior is not cold enough but the light is on, it may be an indication that there is a fault. For example, your compressor may be damaged.

Does a fridge have to make noise?

A refrigerator is never completely quiet, even when it's new. In fact, new fridges may be louder as they settle into place. Still, noises from your ice maker or compressor should never get so loud that it's interrupting conversation.

What does a dying refrigerator compressor sound like?

If the capacitor is bad, the compressor may fail to start or run inconsistently. You might hear clicking or buzzing sounds as the system struggles to engage.

How long should a refrigerator run between cycles?

The Compressor Pulls Up the Gas and the Cycle Starts Again

However, your refrigerator does not—and should not—run constantly. Every 12 to 15 hours, the refrigeration defrost cycle should begin, which uses a defrost heater to melt any frost that has accumulated on the evaporator coils.

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