How To Fix A GE Refrigerator Making A Loud Humming Noise

GE manufactures some of the finest household appliances available on the market, including an extensive range of refrigerators. However, at times, these appliances may develop defects and require maintenance. A common issue that individuals encounter with their GE refrigerators is the emergence of undesirable noises, such as humming sounds.

If you notice that your GE refrigerator is producing a loud humming noise, it is likely due to a malfunctioning component within the appliance. To pinpoint the specific part responsible for the humming noise, you will need to inspect each of the components outlined in this manual. Once you identify the problematic component, you should be able to rectify the issue and restore your refrigerator to its proper working condition, eliminating the bothersome humming sound.

This guide encompasses a comprehensive range of GE refrigerator models, including:

• 1993LPO
• 90280JC
• 90280JD
• 90280JE
• 90280JF
• 90288JC
• GSS25QGSCBB
• GSS25QGSCCC
• GSS25QGSCWW
• GSS25QGTBBB
• GSS25QGTBCC
• GSS25QGTBWW
• PSF26NGNABB
• PSF26NGNACC
• PSF26NGNAWW
• PSS25MGNABB
• PSS25MGNACC
• PSS25MGNAWW
• PSS25NGNABB
• PSS25NGNACC
• PSS25NGNAWW

Inspect the evaporator fan blade

To begin troubleshooting, the most logical starting point is examining the evaporator fan blade, as it can sometimes become obstructed, leading to the development of a loud humming noise. Here’s how to go about inspecting the evaporator fan blade:

1. Unplug your refrigerator from the electrical outlet for safety.
2. Open the freezer door and locate the evaporator fan unit.
3. Remove the cover from the fan, then attempt to manually turn the fan 360 degrees to check if it rotates smoothly without any obstructions. If the fan turns freely, you can proceed to inspect the next component.
4. If you discover any obstructions impeding the fan blade’s movement, carefully remove the obstruction and reattach the cover to the fan unit.
5. Reconnect your refrigerator to the power source and turn it back on. Listen to determine if the humming noise has ceased. If the issue persists, you’ll need to proceed with inspecting the next component in the troubleshooting process.

Inspect the condenser fan blade

Another potential source of a loud humming noise in your refrigerator is a malfunctioning condenser fan blade. The condenser fan is situated at the rear of your fridge and plays a crucial role in cooling the condenser coils. If the fan blade is obstructed by loose objects or becomes iced over, it can result in the generation of a loud humming noise. Here’s how to examine the condenser fan blade:

1. Unplug your refrigerator to ensure your safety during the inspection.
2. Gently pull your refrigerator away from the wall to gain access to the condenser fan.
3. Locate the condenser fan and, if it’s covered, remove the fan unit’s cover. Try to manually rotate the fan 360 degrees to verify if it moves freely without any obstructions. If the fan spins without any issues, you can proceed to the next troubleshooting step.
4. If you find any obstructions on the fan blade or notice that it’s iced over, remove the obstruction or allow it to defrost before reattaching the cover.
5. Plug your refrigerator back in and listen to see if the humming noise has disappeared. If the problem persists, you should move on to inspecting the water inlet valve.

Inspect the water inlet valve

When the humming noise becomes particularly noticeable during the ice maker’s water-filling cycle, the culprit may be the water inlet valve. The water inlet valve is responsible for allowing water into the ice maker unit, and over time, mineral deposits can accumulate within the valve, causing improper water flow and leading to a loud humming noise. Here’s how to inspect the water inlet valve:

1. Locate the water inlet valve on your refrigerator. If you’re unsure about its location, consult your GE fridge user manual for guidance.
2. Check if the water inlet valve is emitting a humming noise. If you hear a loud noise coming from the valve, it’s a good indication that the valve is the issue and should be replaced. However, if there is no loud noise coming from the valve, you can proceed to examine the next component.
3. If you decide to replace the water inlet valve, follow these steps:
   • Unplug your refrigerator.
   • Turn off the water supply to the fridge.
   • Remove the old water inlet valve and install the new one.
   • Turn on the water supply and plug in your fridge.
   • Check to see if the noise has been resolved. If the humming noise persists, you’ll need to move on to testing the evaporator fan motor (as outlined below).

Test the evaporator fan motor

Even if the evaporator fan appears to be functioning, there might be an issue with the motor controlling it, which could be the source of the loud noise generated by the fan. To test the evaporator fan motor, you’ll require a multimeter. Here are the steps to test it:

1. Unplug your refrigerator to ensure your safety during the testing process.
2. Locate the evaporator fan motor and disconnect the wires that are attached to it.
3. Utilise a multimeter to test the motor for continuity.
4. If the multimeter test indicates that the motor doesn’t have continuity, it is an indication that the motor is malfunctioning and needs to be replaced. However, if the motor demonstrates continuity, it means the motor is working correctly, and you can proceed to examine the next component.
5. After replacing the evaporator fan motor unit, plug your refrigerator back in and listen to see if the humming noise has ceased. If the issue persists, proceed to inspect the next component.

Read Also: Maytag Washer Stuck On Wash Cycle

Pros and Cons of GE Refrigerator

Pros

• Reliability
• Variety
• Innovative Features
• Energy Efficiency

Cons

• Price
• Noise Levels
• Limited Warranty
• Repairs and Maintenance

Differences Between GE Refrigerators and Bosch Refrigerators

GE

GE refrigerators come with a variety of features, including water and ice dispensers, adjustable shelving, temperature controls, and some models with smart technology for remote control and monitoring.

Bosch

Bosch refrigerators are known for their innovative technologies, such as VitaFresh compartments that maintain optimal humidity levels for food freshness and freshness sensors that keep track of food quality.

Alternative to GE Refrigerator

Viking

Viking offers premium refrigerators with a focus on both style and performance, often preferred by those who want a professional-grade kitchen.

Test the condenser fan motor

If the evaporator fan motor has been ruled out as the source of the issue and the humming noise persists, the next component to examine is the condenser fan motor. To test the condenser fan motor, follow these steps:

1. Unplug your refrigerator to ensure your safety during the testing process.
2. Locate the condenser fan motor and disconnect the wires that are connected to it.
3. Use your multimeter to test the condenser fan motor for continuity.
4. If the multimeter test indicates that the motor doesn’t have continuity, it is an indication that the condenser fan motor is malfunctioning and should be replaced. However, if the motor demonstrates continuity, it means the motor is functioning correctly, and you can proceed to inspect the next component.
5. After replacing the condenser fan motor unit, plug your refrigerator back in and listen to see if the humming noise has ceased. If the issue persists, move on to examine the next component.

Replace the compressor

The last potential culprit responsible for the loud humming noise could be the compressor. Over time, the internal components within the compressor unit can wear out, leading to a loud noise emanating from it. To determine if the compressor is indeed the source of the noise, follow these steps:

1. Gently pull your refrigerator away from the wall, creating some space for you to access the compressor.
2. Listen carefully to see if you can hear a loud noise originating from the compressor.

If you detect a loud noise coming from the compressor, it’s an indication that the compressor unit may be the issue, and it might need to be serviced or replaced. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a professional technician to further diagnose and address the problem, as compressor issues can be complex and require specialised expertise to resolve.

Conclusion

When faced with a loud humming noise in your refrigerator, it’s essential to systematically troubleshoot the potential causes to identify and resolve the issue. Start by examining the evaporator fan blade for obstructions, and if that doesn’t solve the problem, move on to the condenser fan blade, followed by the water inlet valve, the evaporator fan motor, and the condenser fan motor.

If none of these components appears to be the source of the noise, the final component to check is the compressor. However, compressor issues are complex and may require professional servicing.

By following a structured approach to diagnose and address the source of the loud humming noise, you can increase the likelihood of resolving the problem and restoring your refrigerator to its quiet and efficient operation. If you encounter difficulties or are unsure about any step in the process, it’s advisable to consult a qualified technician for further assistance.