My Refrigerator Has a High-Frequency Noise

Gasket Leak

• A high-pitched squealing or squeaking that takes place intermittently or after the refrigerator door is closed may stem from a leak in the gasket. The gasket is a rubbery strip that lines the refrigerator door. This is, in large part, responsible for keeping the door closed and keeping warm air out of the cooling chamber. Over time, the gasket becomes stiff and can even form cracks or breaks at the sealing point. While large cracks can cause the refrigerator door to remain open, small cracks can channel the air, making a high-pitched noise as hot air leaks in. Replacing the gasket will solve this problem.

Defrost Cycle

• Several models of refrigerator are equipped with an automatic defrost cycle that ensures ice buildup on the coils does not hinder the performance of the unit. While the defrost cycle is a normal part of operation, a high-pitched squealing sound followed by a cracking noise may point to ice on the interior coils of the refrigerator. As the ice begins to melt from the inside out, cracks form along the surface, making high-pitched noises as the solid ice is stressed and broken. In this case, the sound means the defrost cycle is removing the ice from the coils and preserving proper operation of the unit.

Fan Obstruction

• Another problem that may cause a high-pitched squeal is a freezer vent fan obstruction. This is especially possible on a refrigerator with a top-mounted freezer box. A bit of paper or plastic on top of the vent or even on one of the fan blades can cause a disturbing high-pitched noise. Clearing the vent and fan of debris will solve this problem.

Refrigerant Leak

• The refrigerator is a closed system, meaning the refrigerant is enclosed in a recycling loop and very little, if any, escapes into the atmosphere. This changes, however, if the exterior coils are punctured and the refrigerant begins to leak out. Because refrigerant is stored under pressure, the escaping gas causes a high-pitched noise as it leaks out of the coils. If a refrigerant leak is suspected, shut the refrigerator down immediately and ventilate the room. Contact a service professional for repair options.