Refrigerator noise

[bluedog225]

My old kenmore (made by Amana) refrigerator is making a bit of a grindy type noise when the compressor turns on and shuts off. Pretty mild now but been going on for a month or more.

For some reason, I think it could be the capacitor. Mostly because that might be cheap and easily fixable. Though also because I think it’s a similar noise that my home air conditioner made when it has a bad capacitor.

I was trying to figure out how old it is. I’m guessing 20 years. But can’t find it on the machine.

Any wild speculation welcome. Thanks!

edit-well it turns out the capacitor is $48. But still a deal if it is the problem.

 

[oldmxracer]

At 20 years old I would start shopping! Do not ask how I know they die at a bad time!

 

[chris142]

More likely it's the fan going bad

 

[bluedog225]

Fan motor? Seems like an easy fix. I’ve been keeping it clean.

 

[pcmeiners]

"Fan motor? Seems like an easy fix. I’ve been keeping it clean."

Agree, the bushing/bearing goes and the noise just get worse, no permanent fix other than replace the fan

 

[tipsy]

Yep. Fan motor. I just replaced mine on my avocado green GE fridge. That's how old mine is.

 

[nadogail]

Could your business use another tax deduction? A refrigerator to keep your shop sodas cold is a reasonable expense; your tax accountant can call it shop equipment, just like a new compressor.

 

[James-W]

My guess is the refrigerator problem you have is the compressor is starting to die. The common noise that you hear is when the compressor starts it is quite loud and then quiets down after maybe 10 seconds or so,