Issues with commercial appliances such as refrigeration systems can cause an unwanted disruption, particularly for food-based businesses. If your refrigeration system is making loud noises, there are several potential culprits to assess. To provide insight into the various refrigerator noises you can expect and how to address them, here’s a helpful guide.

Common Refrigerator Noises

While noises within your refrigeration system can be worrisome, not every sound is a cause for alarm. For instance, you may notice hissing and gurgling noises as the compressor moves refrigerant through your system’s coils. However, this is a perfectly normal activity, but these sounds will amplify as your system ages.

Also, if you notice rattling or rumbling at the base of the fridge, you may have a faulty drain pan. Fortunately, this component typically requires some basic tightening with a screwdriver to remedy the issue.

Unfortunately, a number of other loud and unusual refrigerator sounds can be cause for alarm. For instance, if you hear a loud buzzing or whirring sound coming from the back of the refrigeration unit, you likely have a damaged or clogged fan. To avoid this issue, it’s best to check for and remove any obstructions from behind the refrigerator once every six months.

If the buzz is constant but not coming from the back of the fridge, you likely have an issue with the evaporator fan motor. Over time, this piece can separate from the mounting bracket, creating excess noise. This can be particularly problematic, as your refrigerator will not be able to cycle through the refrigeration process properly, and the ice inside will start to freeze. Your appliance will need a replacement motor immediately.

How to Handle a Noisy Fridge

You may be tempted to troubleshoot issues with your commercial appliance on your own. However, you don’t want to delay in addressing problems with your commercial refrigeration system, since waiting too long can result in destroyed products.

Ideally, you’ll want to enlist the help of a professional HVACR contractor to ensure it’s fixed as quickly as possible. With the proper equipment and knowledge, a professional will examine the unit and check for temperature fluctuations and ice accumulation. They’ll then diagnose the issue and provide an effective solution.

 

If your commercial refrigeration system is unusually noisy, don’t delay in seeking professional assistance. At Lindbergh Commercial Services in Maryland Heights, MO, we understand the severity of temperature fluctuations in your commercial appliances and the resulting impact on productivity and inventory. Fortunately, we have over a decade of experience restoring climate-controlled environments in restaurants, warehouses, and office buildings. Whether you need assistance with restaurant equipment or air-conditioning units, we’ll provide unmatched customer support. To get in touch with a professional HVACR contractor, give us a call today at (314) 731-0404 or visit our website.