What’s That Noise? A Guide to Common Appliance Sounds

Your home appliances communicate with you through a series of clicks, hums, and whirs. Most of these sounds are perfectly normal, but some noises are clear warning signs that something is wrong. Learning to distinguish a normal operational sound from a cry for help can help you catch a problem early and prevent a major breakdown.

Here’s a guide to decoding the sounds your appliances are making.

Refrigerator Noises

• Normal: Humming or buzzing (the compressor), clicking (the thermostat), and gurgling or dripping (refrigerant moving).
• Problem: A loud, persistent buzzing or rattling from the back could be a failing condenser fan. A loud clicking or grinding sound from the bottom could signal a problem with the compressor—a serious and expensive repair.

Dishwasher Noises

• Normal: Whirring and sloshing (water circulating), clicking (detergent dispenser opening), and a gentle hum (the drain pump).
• Problem: A loud grinding or scraping noise often means a hard object like a piece of glass or a fruit pit is stuck in the chopper blade or pump. A loud thumping sound could mean a spray arm is blocked and hitting the racks.

Washer and Dryer Noises

• Washer – Problem: A loud thumping or banging during the spin cycle usually means the load is unbalanced. If it happens with every load, it could be a problem with the suspension rods or shock absorbers. A high-pitched squealing or grinding sound points to a failing motor or worn-out tub bearings.
• Dryer – Problem: A rhythmic thumping sound could be caused by a worn-out drum roller. A loud scraping or metallic grinding noise is a serious warning that something is wrong with the drum glides or motor bearings. Turn the dryer off immediately.

Oven Noises

• Normal: A “whoosh” sound when a gas oven ignites, and clicking as the metal expands and contracts with temperature changes.
• Problem: A loud, continuous buzzing or humming from an electric oven often indicates a problem with the convection fan motor. For a gas oven, if you hear repeated clicking without ignition, you have a faulty igniter.

When in Doubt, Call the Experts

While some noises can be fixed with a simple adjustment, many indicate a failing mechanical or electrical part. Continuing to run an appliance that’s making a problem noise can cause more extensive damage.

The licensed technicians at Appliance Surgeon are experts at diagnosing problems by sound. We can quickly pinpoint the source of the noise and perform a precise repair to get your appliance running quietly and efficiently again.

Heard a strange noise? Don’t ignore it. Contact Appliance Surgeon for a professional diagnosis.