Whirlpool Refrigerator Clicking Noise – 6 DIY Steps To Fix It Fast

ByJim Boslice Home & Kitchen

A clicking sound in a Whirlpool refrigerator is usually caused by a failing start relay, a dirty condenser coil, or a malfunctioning fan motor. To fix it, first unplug the unit, clean the coils, and then test the start relay located on the side of the compressor for a rattling sound or visible burn marks.

If the clicking persists, inspect the condenser fan for obstructions and check the electronic control board for clicking relays. Replacing a bad start relay is a 15-minute DIY task that solves the majority of these noise issues.

You have just finished a long day in the workshop, your hands are dusty, and you head to the kitchen for a cold drink. That is when you hear it—a rhythmic, metallic snapping sound coming from the corner of the room. Hearing a persistent whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise is enough to drive any DIYer crazy, especially when you realize your food might be at risk.

You might be worried that your expensive appliance is headed for the scrap heap, but don’t reach for the phone to call a repairman just yet. Most of the time, this clicking is a symptom of a specific, replaceable part that has reached the end of its lifespan. It is a problem we can solve right here in the “Jim BoSlice Workshop” style with a few basic tools.

In this guide, I will walk you through the diagnostic process to identify exactly where that sound is coming from. We will cover everything from the compressor components to the cooling fans, ensuring you have the confidence to tackle this repair safely. Let’s grab our multimeters and nut drivers and get to work on silencing that fridge.

Diagnosing Your Whirlpool Refrigerator Clicking Noise

Before we start tearing things apart, we need to understand what that sound actually represents. In the world of appliance repair, a click is usually the sound of a relay trying to engage or a thermal overload switch cutting power to a motor. It is the machine’s way of protecting itself from electrical damage.

When your whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise occurs every few minutes, it usually means the compressor is trying to start but failing. The clicking you hear is the start relay clicking on, followed quickly by the overload protector clicking off because the compressor is drawing too much current.

Start by pulling the refrigerator away from the wall so you can access the back panel. Make sure you have enough light to see into the machine’s “engine room.” This is where we will find the primary suspects for that annoying snapping sound.

Safety First: Pre-Repair Checklist

As with any project in the workshop, safety is our number one priority. Refrigerators use high voltage and contain capacitors that can hold a charge even after the unit is disconnected. You must follow these steps before touching any internal wiring.

First, always unplug the power cord from the wall outlet. Never work on a live appliance, as the risk of electrical shock is significant. If your refrigerator is built-in, locate the circuit breaker in your home’s main panel and flip it to the “off” position.

Second, give the components a few minutes to cool down. The compressor and the discharge lines can become extremely hot during operation. You don’t want to burn your hands while trying to reach the start relay or the fan motor.

Essential Tools for the Job

  • A multimeter for testing electrical continuity.
  • A 1/4-inch nut driver or socket set.
  • A flat-head screwdriver for prying clips.
  • A vacuum with a brush attachment or a coil brush.
  • Work gloves to protect against sharp metal edges.

The Most Common Culprit: The Start Relay

If you had to place a bet on what is causing your whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise, the start relay would be the favorite. This small plastic component is plugged directly into the side of the compressor. Its job is to provide an extra boost of electricity to get the compressor motor spinning.

Inside the relay is a small ceramic disk called a PTC thermistor. Over time, this disk can crack or shatter due to heat and age. When it breaks, the relay can no longer complete the circuit, and the compressor stalls, causing the overload protector to “click” as it shuts down.

To check this, remove the rear access panel and locate the black box on the side of the compressor. Pop the metal wire clip off and pull the relay straight out. Give it a gentle shake near your ear; if it sounds like a box of broken glass, the internal disk is shattered and the part must be replaced.

Testing with a Multimeter

Sometimes a relay looks fine but has failed internally without rattling. Set your multimeter to the lowest ohms setting or continuity mode. Place the probes into the terminal holes on the relay to see if there is a path for electricity.

If the meter shows “OL” (Open Loop) or infinite resistance, the relay is dead. Replacing this part is incredibly simple and usually costs less than $20. It is a classic DIY win that saves you a $200 service call.

Checking the Condenser Fan Motor

While the start relay is the most likely cause, the condenser fan is a close second. This fan is located near the compressor at the bottom of the unit. Its job is to pull air across the condenser coils to remove heat from the refrigerant.

If the fan motor is failing or if something is stuck in the blades, it can make a clicking or ticking sound. Sometimes, a piece of debris like a stray wire or a bit of plastic gets caught in the fan’s path. As the blades hit the object, it creates a repetitive noise.

Check for obstructions by looking at the fan while the fridge is running (carefully). If the fan is struggling to turn, it can also cause the compressor to overheat. This overheating triggers the whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise as the compressor’s thermal protector shuts the system down.

Cleaning the Condenser Coils

Since you are already back there, take a look at the coils. If they are matted with pet hair and dust, the fridge can’t breathe. This puts immense strain on the compressor and can lead to premature failure of the start relay.

Use your vacuum and a coil brush to gently remove the buildup. Keeping these coils clean is the best way to extend the life of your appliance. I recommend doing this at least twice a year as part of your home maintenance routine.

Evaluating the Evaporator Fan in the Freezer

If the clicking sound seems to be coming from inside the freezer rather than the back of the unit, the evaporator fan is the likely source. This fan circulates cold air throughout the refrigerator and freezer compartments.

Sometimes, ice buildup around the fan blades causes a clicking or chirping sound. This usually happens if there is a problem with the defrost system. The ice grows until the fan blades begin to strike it, creating a rhythmic noise.

To inspect this, you will need to remove the back panel inside the freezer. Look for any signs of frost or ice accumulation. If the fan motor itself is clicking, it likely has a worn-out bearing or a failing internal winding, and you will need to swap it for a new one.

Control Board and Electrical Glitches

Modern Whirlpool refrigerators rely on a main control board to manage the cooling cycles. This board contains several small mechanical relays that click when they open or close. While a faint click is normal, a rapid-fire clicking sound usually indicates a failing board.

If the control board has a “bad spot” or a failing capacitor, it may struggle to send a steady signal to the compressor. This results in the whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise coming from the top or back of the cabinet where the board is housed.

Examine the control board for any visible burn marks or “puffed up” capacitors. If you see any signs of heat damage on the circuit board, the entire board usually needs to be replaced. This is a more expensive part, but it is still a straightforward DIY swap.

When the Compressor is the Problem

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but sometimes the clicking is a sign that the compressor itself has failed. The compressor is the heart of the cooling system, and if its internal mechanical parts seize up, it will draw excessive current.

When a compressor is “locked,” the start relay tries to kick it over, but the motor won’t budge. The overload protector then clicks to prevent an electrical fire. If you have replaced the start relay and the whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise persists, the compressor might be dead.

Checking for a grounded compressor involves using a multimeter to check the resistance between the three pins on the compressor and the metal housing. If you find continuity between a pin and the housing, the compressor is shorted. This is a “pro-only” repair because it involves handling refrigerant.

Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Clicking

The best way to handle a whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Most refrigerator components fail because they are working harder than they were designed to. Clean your coils regularly to reduce heat. Ensure there is at least two inches of space between the back of the fridge and the wall for proper airflow. Also, check your door seals; if they are leaking, the fridge runs constantly, wearing out the relay and compressor.

Finally, consider using a high-quality surge protector designed for appliances. Power surges are a leading cause of control board and relay failure. A small investment in protection can save you from a major repair down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions About Whirlpool Refrigerator Clicking Noise

Why does my fridge click but still stay cold?

If the clicking is occasional and the fridge is cooling, it might be the defrost timer or the plastic housing expanding and contracting. However, if the clicking is frequent, a part is likely on the verge of total failure, and you should investigate before it stops cooling entirely.

Can I bypass the start relay to test the compressor?

While some pros use a “hard start kit” to jumpstart a compressor, I do not recommend this for beginners. It involves live voltage and can be dangerous. It is much safer to test the relay with a multimeter or replace it with a known good part.

How much does it cost to fix a clicking noise?

If it is the start relay, you are looking at $15 to $50 for the part. A fan motor might cost $60 to $100. If the compressor is dead, the repair can exceed $500, at which point you might consider a new refrigerator.

Is it normal for a new Whirlpool fridge to click?

Newer high-efficiency models use linear compressors and various solenoid valves for the ice maker and water dispenser. These can make clicking sounds that are perfectly normal. Check your owner’s manual to see which sounds are considered standard operation.

Closing Thoughts from the Workshop

Tackling a whirlpool refrigerator clicking noise is a fantastic project for any DIYer. It teaches you about electrical circuits, mechanical cooling, and the importance of routine maintenance. Most importantly, it gives you the satisfaction of fixing a major appliance with your own two hands.

Remember to take your time, keep your workspace clean, and always work safely. If you find that the repair is beyond your comfort level—especially if it involves the sealed refrigerant system—don’t hesitate to call in a professional. There is no shame in knowing when to hand the wrench to an expert.

I hope this guide helps you get your kitchen back to its quiet, functional self. For more DIY tips on everything from carpentry to home repair, keep tinkering and keep learning. You’ve got this!

Jim Boslice
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