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35
Normal operating sounds. GEAppliances.com
Newer refrigerators sound different from older refrigerators.
Modern refrigerators have more features and use newer
technology.
HUMMM...
WHOOSH...
The new high efficiency compressor may run faster and
longer than your old refrigerator and you may hear a
high-pitched hum or pulsating sound while
it is operating.
Sometimes the refrigerator runs for an extended period,
especially when the doors are opened frequently. This means
that the Frost Guard
™
feature is working to prevent freezer
burn and improve food preservation.
You may hear a whooshing sound when the doors close. This
is due to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.
You may hear the fans spinning at high speeds.
This happens when the refrigerator is first plugged in,
when the doors are opened frequently or when
a large amount of food is added to the refrigerator or
freezer compartments. The fans are helping to maintain
the correct temperatures.
If either door is open for over 3 minutes, you may hear
the fans come on in order to cool the light bulbs.
The fans change speeds in order to provide optimal
cooling and energy savings.
You may hear the fans running after selecting one
of the CustomCool
™
settings.
CLICKS, POPS,
CRACKS and CHIRPS
You may hear cracking or popping sounds when the
refrigerator is first plugged in. This happens as the
refrigerator cools to the correct temperature.
Electronic dampers click open and closed to provide
optimal cooling and energy savings.
The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping sound
when attempting to restart (this could take
up to 5 minutes).
The electronic control board may cause a clicking sound
when relays activate to control refrigerator components.
Expansion and contraction of cooling coils during and
after defrost can cause a cracking or popping sound.
On models with an icemaker, after an icemaking cycle,
you may hear the ice cubes dropping into
the ice bucket.
WATER
SOUNDS
The flow of refrigerant through the freezer cooling coils
may make a gurgling noise like boiling water.
Water dropping on the defrost heater can cause a sizzling,
popping or buzzing sound during the defrost cycle.
A water dripping noise may occur during the defrost cycle
as ice melts from the evaporator and flows into the drain
pan.
Closing the door may cause a gurgling sound due to
pressure equalization.
Do you hear what I hear? These sounds are normal.
For additional information on normal
icemaker and dispenser operating sounds,
see the About the automatic icemaker
and About the ice and water dispenser
sections.