What’s That Noise? Why Your Fridge Runs Loud in a Rental (and How to Quiet It)

A noisy refrigerator can easily transform your calm rental home into a source of frustration. Unwelcome fridge sounds range from humming and rattling to clicking and buzzing, and they are one of the most prevalent appliance issues that tenants face. Luckily, many loud fridge rental issues are common or easily resolved. With a little tenant appliance troubleshooting and understanding when to ask for help, you can reduce the noise and restore tranquility in your home.

Is a Loud Fridge Normal in a Rental?

Numerous models of refrigerators make noise as part of their normal operation, particularly when the compressor turns on, the ice machine runs, or the fans move air. Some of these sounds may be quiet and unnoticed, while others may be louder. This is true even if the refrigerator is functional.
Common noises a refrigerator might be making include:

• Humming or buzzing: Normal compressor functioning
• Clicking: Thermostat cycling or defrost timer
• Rattling or vibrating: Loose parts or contact with cabinets
• High-pitched whining: Fan or motor functioning harder than normal

In rental homes, fridges are frequently older or positioned tightly within cabinetry, both of which can amplify sound. Smaller living spaces also make appliance noise more noticeable, so if your rental is cozy, you may hear it more. Although some fridge noise is acceptable and anticipated, persistently loud or disruptive sounds may indicate a problem that requires attention. Recognizing when this is the case can aid in more efficient tenant appliance troubleshooting.

Causes of a Loud Fridge and Tenant Appliance Troubleshooting

Strangely loud fridge noises could have a variety of sources. If you are attempting to troubleshoot a mystery noise, here are some of the most common causes of unwanted fridge noise that you can solve yourself:

• The Fridge Isn’t Level: Vibration caused uneven flooring or faulty leveling in the refrigerator. When the fridge rocks slightly, it may collide with cabinets or walls, amplifying the noise. Try adjusting the fridge’s leveling feet so that it sits properly on the floor. Additionally, try positioning the fridge so that it isn’t contacting any surrounding cabinets or countertops.
• Dirty or Blocked Condenser Coils: Dust buildup limits airflow, obliging the fridge to work harder and run louder. This is common in rentals where appliances are not frequently used. Try vacuuming out the areas behind and inside the back of your fridge, including below.
• Items Inside the Fridge Are Causing Vibration: Rattling or knocking sounds can be caused by loose bottles, stacked containers, or frozen items touching the fan. Rearrange your goods within to reduce vibrations and rattling.
• An Overworked Compressor or Fan: Older refrigerators and units in warm conditions may have overworked compressors or fans, leading to increased noise. Inspect and clean the rubber seals around fridge doors. If the compressor or fan appears to be on constantly, air may be leaking out through the seals.

These easy measures will help you swiftly resolve loud fridge rental concerns. However, if the noise continues, it is advisable to call your landlord or an appliance repair professional. Never attempt electrical repairs, complete compressor or motor repairs, or remove internal elements. These types of fixes could cause injury or damage the appliance (or both), so it’s a good idea to leave more serious repairs to the pros.

When to Contact Property Management About a Loud Fridge

Some fridge noises are obvious signs of a serious problem, and no amount of troubleshooting will resolve it.
Reach out to your landlord or property management company immediately if you notice:

• Grinding or shrieking sounds
• Continuous loud knocking
• Fridge not cooling properly
• Noise worsens over time

For optimum results, document the noise, including when and how frequently it occurs, as well as what it sounds like. This can help maintenance diagnose the problem more quickly.

A Loud Fridge Doesn’t Have to Disrupt Your Home

Not all fridge noise is a major concern, but you should not have to deal with frequent disruption. Most noisy refrigerator issues can be simply and safely handled with basic tenant-appliance troubleshooting and understanding when to ask for assistance.

Sick of noisy appliances or other rental hassles? Enhance your daily experience with Real Property Management Keystone. We provide a wide variety of well-maintained, comfortable rental homes that focus on your peace and comfort. Whether you desire a quieter environment or simply a better rental experience, we’re eager to assist you. Browse available rentals and locate your next tranquil home today!