Growling Sounds from My Whirlpool Refrigerator

Compressor

• As the compressor on the back of the refrigerator runs, you will hear a loud noise. It is a pulsating type of growling noise. This noise is normal and occurs as the compressor fans speed up and slow down as they adjust to optimize the refrigerator’s performance.

Flow of Refrigerant or Water

• If the growling sound resembles a hissing or rattling, that probably indicates things are normal. As refrigerant flows or water moves through the lines, it results in this type of noise. It is a completely normal noise and cannot be stopped.

Top of Refrigerator

• If you have something sitting on top of your refrigerator, it may be to blame for the noise. The item may be sitting on the metal door hinge and causing a low, rattling type of growl sound as a result of refrigerator vibrating. This noise can be stopped by removing the item that is on top of the unit.

Inside Walls

• As the unit cools, the inside walls naturally contract and expand. This process causes noises. You will most likely notice these noises when the unit is first installed and trying to cool down. However, you can hear them with regular usage of the refrigerator. The noise this makes is a low, popping sound that may sound like growling through the closed doors. This is a normal noise that you cannot stop.

Not Level

• If the refrigerator is not sitting level, it can vibrate or rattle and cause a growling sound. To determine if the unit sits level, grasp it on both sides and see if it will rock in place. If so, it needs to be adjusted to level. You have to take the bottom two grilles off so that you can access the front rollers for adjustment. A wrench is needed for the adjustment. Once the unit is level, you should not experience this growling sound any longer.