Normal Operating Sounds - GE GTE21 Owner's Manual And Installation Instructions

Normal operating sounds.

Newer refrigerators sound different from older refrigerators. Modern refrigerators
have more features and use newer technology.
Do you hear what I hear? These sounds are normal.
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.
You may hear a whooshing sound when the doors close.
This is due to pressure equalizing within the refrigerator.
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.
The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping
sound when attempting to restart (this could take
up to 5 minutes).
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.
On models with a dispenser, during water dispense,
you may hear the water lines move at initial dispense
and after dispenser button is released.
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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.
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.