High-Pitched Refrigerator Noise

Describe the high-pitched noise. For example, is it a quiet squeaking noise, or is it a loud screech? Note the volume and duration of the sound, and when it usually occurs. Record it if you can. All these things will help an appliance repairman identify the source of the problem more quickly than if he has to start from scratch.

Open the fridge and freezer doors and listen for the noise. If it is coming from inside the refrigerator, it is likely the circulating fan, which rotates to move air from the freezer to the refrigerator. Over time, these fans sometimes start squeaking as they rotate. Find a switch to turn off the fan, and if the noise stops, you've identified the problem. Fan motors must be replaced to stop the squeaking.

Listen at the back of the refrigerator, if you didn't hear the noise coming from the inside of the fridge. Three things in this area might be causing the noise: the condenser fan, the defrost timer or the compressor. The latter, which serves to move coolant through the coils, contains a motor that is housed in a sealed unit. If it breaks, it might squeal, and it will need to be replaced by a professional. If the condenser fan is making the high-pitched noise, you may be able to clean or lubricate it. If the problem is the defrost timer, it must be replaced, although it rarely makes a high-pitched noise.

Bend down and listen underneath the fridge, if you still haven't located the source of the noise. It's unlikely the noise will be coming from that area -- the drain pan is the only thing under the fridge that might make a noise -- but it is worthwhile to eliminate that as a possible cause.