Upright & Chest Freezer - Normal Sounds

The types of sounds made by newer freezers differ from those of older freezer models. Modern freezers have many features that older models do not have. Because of this, it is necessary to have a more powerful, higher speed compressor than the older model freezers.

 

In addition to the compressor, other operating components perform the modernized functions found in the newer models. These components will also have sounds associated with them.

 

Generally, once you get accustomed to the sounds of a modern freezer, it is no longer noticeable.

 

These sounds are all considered normal:

 

• Boiling, gurgling, knocking, moaning, groaning, popping

These normal operating sounds occur while the unit is cooling: (Placing more food in the freezer can dampen the noise and diminish the compressor's run time. The cold foods insulate each other and help keep the interior temperature colder.)

 

• Compressor running or whining

• Sizzling, popping, crackling, hissing

These sounds occur normally during the automatic defrost cycle of your freezer. This cycle normally lasts between 30 and 40 minutes and can occur at various times of the day. (Manual defrost freezers should not experience these sounds except for the normal expansion and contraction of the freezer liner in which the condenser is located.)

 

• Whooshing sound

When the door or lid is opened, cold air rushes out of the freezer and warm air rushes in. This causes a temporary vacuum until the freezer temperature equalizes. You may hear a whooshing or air flow noise for up to one minute while the pressure inside the freezer equalizes with the surrounding environment. The sound you hear is normal and is simply confirmation that the freezer is sealing tightly.