A practical homeowner’s guide to what's normal—and what’s not—when it comes to appliance noise.
Let’s be honest—most of us don’t give our appliances much thought until they stop working altogether. But what if they’ve actually been dropping hints all along? Clanks in the laundry room, buzzes in the kitchen, and even subtle hisses can be signs that something’s not quite right.
Think of it as appliance whispering. By learning to listen for what’s normal—and what definitely isn’t—you can stop small issues from snowballing into big, expensive repairs. Below, we break down the sounds and smells your appliances might be using to ask for a little TLC.
Refrigerator Noises
What’s Normal
A well-running fridge doesn’t sound like a library. Expect a low, steady hum as the compressor kicks in, a soft click when the defrost cycle starts, and an occasional gurgle or hiss from the refrigerant doing its job. If your ice maker is active, you’ll also hear periodic buzzing as it fills.
What’s Worrisome
If the usual hum turns into more of a growl, or the buzz starts sounding like a bee on a mission, your fridge could be working overtime. Repeated clicking might mean the defrost system is glitching, and constant gurgling might hint at a refrigerant issue that’s worth watching.
What’s a Red Flag
Courtesty USDA.
Hear a grinding sound? That could be ice building up near the evaporator fan. A rattling noise might mean the condenser fan or compressor is loose—or on its way out. And a squeal coming from behind the fridge? That’s your cue to call a technician, stat.
Freezer Noises
What’s Normal
Expect a quiet whir as fans circulate cold air, along with the occasional pop or crack as the interior expands and contracts with temperature changes. Soft hissing or gurgling from the refrigerant is also totally normal.
What’s Worrisome
If your freezer sounds like it’s trying too hard—loud clicking, persistent buzzing, or a whine—something may be stressing the motor or fan. These aren’t full-blown emergencies, but they do deserve a closer look.
What’s a Red Flag
Sharp squealing often means a fan motor is giving out. Grinding could mean something’s stuck or broken inside. And any hissing accompanied by reduced cooling could be a refrigerant leak, which calls for professional help.
Dishwasher
What’s Normal
A working dishwasher is a symphony of soft, productive sounds: gentle swishing of water, light clicks as it changes cycles, and a low hum when it drains.
What’s Worrisome
If you hear a grinding or deep humming, it may be debris stuck in the pump—or a pump that’s wearing down. Longer-than-usual cycles can point to a clogged filter or a sensor that's struggling to do its job.
What’s a Red Flag
Pooling water on your floor is never a good sign. Neither is a burning smell, loud clanging, or the kind of rattle that makes you step back mid-load. If your dishes are still dirty after a cycle, that’s another signal your dishwasher is due for a checkup.
Oven / Stove / Range
What’s Normal
Clicking as your gas burner lights is perfectly expected. So is a quiet fan hum during and after cooking—especially with newer convection ovens.
What’s Worrisome
When that clicking doesn’t stop, it’s time to investigate. The igniter may be failing or the burner could be dirty. And if your food is suddenly cooking unevenly, your heating element might be the culprit.
What’s a Red Flag
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If you smell gas but nothing’s turned on, stop reading and turn off the main gas valve. Then call your gas company. Other big warnings: buzzing noises, burning smells, or a door that won’t close properly (especially if your oven seems to be struggling to stay hot).
Washing Machine
What’s Normal
Expect a lot of sloshing, a few clicks, and maybe a light thump if the load is slightly off-balance. The hum of the motor and a gurgle as the machine drains are all standard fare.
What’s Worrisome
A loud thump that doesn’t stop could mean a suspension rod is worn out. Grinding might mean something’s stuck between the tubs. And a hissing sound could indicate a leaky water hose.
What’s a Red Flag
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If your washer is screeching, vibrating violently, or leaking, don’t press your luck. Shut it off and take a closer look—or better yet, call someone who can.
Dryer
What’s Normal
You’ll hear a steady whir as the drum turns, a few clicks as the timer advances, and maybe a soft thud when zippers or buttons hit the inside.
What’s Worrisome
If it’s taking multiple cycles to dry your clothes, you might be dealing with a clogged vent or a failing heating element. A new rattle could mean a belt is wearing out or something’s loose inside.
What’s a Red Flag
Courtesy of Planet care
Any kind of burning smell or overheating sensation should be treated seriously—it could be a lint blockage or faulty coil, and that’s a fire risk. If your clothes are coming out scorched, shut it down and unplug it.
The truth is, your appliances are always talking to you. The question is—are you listening? Whether it’s a squeak, a buzz, or a thud, unusual sounds and smells are often your first clue that something’s not quite right. Catching these red flags early means fewer breakdowns, lower repair costs, and way less stress.
And when things go from “huh, that’s weird” to “okay, that’s bad,” Appliance Rescue Service is just a call away. Our expert team can diagnose the issue, make the fix, and get your home back to humming (the normal kind).
Call: (214) 599-0055