A Noisy Maytag Refrigerator Fan

Blocked Vents

• The vents located throughout the refrigerator must be clear to keep air flowing through the refrigerator, and may be blocked by food items. A blocked vent is unable to distribute air in the refrigerator properly, and increases the fan's speed in an attempt to cool down the appliance. Keep the refrigerator's vents clear of food or containers to ensure proper cooling.

High Cooling Temperature

• The fan runs faster and frequently when the refrigerator's cooling thermostat is configured for a colder setting because the fan has to run continuously at a high speed to keep the refrigerator cold. A higher temperature reduces the need for the fan to run as often, and leads to a quieter fan.

Door Issues

• A frequently opened refrigerator door or a door left open causes the refrigerator's fan to run faster than normal because the cool air leaves the refrigerator and the environment's warm air enters the appliance. Reduce the number of times you open the refrigerator's door, and always check to make sure the door is sealed shut to stop the fan from running fast.

Stored Food

• Food that is gradually added to the refrigerator stabilizes the interior temperature, but a large amount of food added at once causes the refrigerator's temperature to dramatically rise. The fan runs at a high speed until the temperature returns to its programmed low setting, and may periodically run fast to maintain the temperature.