My Refrigerator Fan Speeds Up & Slows Down With a Roaring Sound

Finding the Fan

• The format of the refrigerator determines where the refrigerator fan is located. On side-by-side models, the fan is centered on the back wall in the freezer. The fan is near the top of the freezer on the back wall for bottom-freezer models, and is centered in the freezer on top-freezer models.

Testing the Fan

• Start your investigation by opening the freezer door and pushing in on the fan or light switch. If the noise gets louder, the fan is the culprit and needs to be either cleaned or replaced. Start by performing a basic reset. Set the freezer temperature to “0” or “Off” and wait 15 minutes. Adjust the freezer temperature back to the desired setting and wait to see if the sound has quieted. If not, proceed with cleaning and inspection.

Cleaning the Fan

• Disconnect the power to the refrigerator and remove food items and ice cube trays from the freezer. You may also have to remove the shelves in the freezer to access the back panel. Remove the screws or clips holding the back panel in place with a small screwdriver and access the freezer fan. If the fan is covered in ice, use a hairdryer on low or hot and damp cloths to clean away the ice from the fan. Wipe away all remaining moisture and let the fan dry.

Repair

• Once the fan has been cleaned and dried, try to spin the fan and see if it moves easily. If the fan spins without obstruction, replace the back panel in the freezer and return the freezer items. Reconnect power and allow the freezer at least 12 to 24 hours to cool fully. If the noise does not return, the ice was the reason for the speed issues and sound. If the sound returns, contact a refrigerator service professional to have the continuity of the fan tested, as the fan may be damaged or broken and in need repair or replacement.