For Service; Troubleshooting Tips; Before You Call; Normal Operating Sounds - GE 20 Manuel D'utilisation

Normal operating sounds.

Newer refrigerators sound different from older refrigerators. Modern refrigerators have more features
and use newer technology.
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.
Sometimes the refrigerator runs for an extended period,
especially when the doors are opened frequently. This
means that the Frost Guard™ feature is working to
prevent freezer burn and improve food preservation.
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.
Electronic dampers click open and closed to provide
optimal cooling and energy savings.
The compressor may cause a clicking or chirping
sound when attempting to restart (this could take
up to 5 minutes).
The electronic control board may cause a clicking
sound when relays activate to control refrigerator
components.
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.
Before you call for service...

Troubleshooting Tips

Save time and money! Review the charts on the following
pages first and you may not need to call for service.
Problem
Refrigerator does not
operate
Refrigerator or freezer
compartment too warm
14
Do you hear what I hear? These sounds are normal.
HUMMM...
WHOOSH...
Possible Causes
Refrigerator in defrost cycle.
Freezer control
in 0 (off) position.
Refrigerator is unplugged.
The fuse is blown/circuit
breaker is tripped.
Energy Smart™ feature is
altering refrigerator performance
Temperature control not set
cold enough.
Warm weather or frequent
door openings.
Door left open.
Energy Smart™ feature is
altering refrigerator performance
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.
If either door is open for over 3 minutes, you may hear
the fans come on in order to cool the light bulbs.
The fans change speeds in order to provide optimal
cooling and energy savings.
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.
What To Do
• Wait about 30 minutes for defrost cycle to end.
• Move the freezer control to a lower temperature setting.
• Push the plug completely into the outlet.
• Replace fuse or reset the breaker.
• Wait about 2 hours for normal operation to continue.
• See About the controls.
• Set the temperature control one step colder.
See About the controls.
• Check to see if package is holding door open.
• See About Energy Smart™ Models.