Noise From Refrigerant Pipes

Hot Gas Line

• The purpose of a hot gas line on your refrigerator is to prevent oil from trapping in the upper portion of the part-load operation. Despite this, if your hot gas line is not working properly, hot gas pulsations may occur, resulting in excessive noise and vibrations from the hot gas line. In addition to making a disturbing noise, this problem could be preventing a natural flow of gas through your refrigerator. While you could repair this yourself, it is advised to call a professional repairman to fix your hot gas line.

Gas Velocity

• In addition to the hot gas line itself, the velocity at which gas travels in and out of your refrigerator varies depending on make and model. An acceptable speed that will keep noise from refrigerant pipes down is approximately 4,000 fpm. If you are hearing excessive noise from these pipes, another possibility is that the the gas is traveling at too high of a speed through these pipes. Having a repairman come and slow down the gas velocity will help keep the noise down.

Reciprocating Compressors

• Reciprocating compressors are designed to deliver both gas and coolant at high pressures into your refrigerator. While these compressors cause noise and vibration, they can be minimized with steel braided refrigerant lines. These lines help to reduce vibration and improve efficiency. If your compressors are not securely installed, or installed in a way that rubs them against solid objects, you will have an increase in noise and wear to your compressors.

Wrapping

• Properly wrapping and protecting your refrigerant pipes will help reduce vibration and noise as well as reduce the risk of damage to the pipes themselves. For pipes that route outdoors, placing weatherproof tape tightly around them will help minimize wear and tear. In addition, missing line insulation can result in additional noise as well as exposure to the elements. Repairing the insulation properly will help reduce noise from the refrigerant pipes in your house.