The Whirlpool refrigerator air filter is a mechanism located within the fridge at the back panel.
It aids in keeping the air in the refrigerator clean, clear of harmful toxins and odor-free.
The filter is constructed of activated carbon and charcoal that has been processed to eliminate contaminants. The air filter works by capturing the airborne particles that are released into the air every time the fridge is opened.
These particles can include dust, mold spores, and germs.
The air filter allows air to move past it actively, which helps to neutralize odors and microorganisms.
Sometimes there is a noise produced by the air filter which causes different problems.
In this article, different sources of air filter noise are discussed along with potential solutions.
What Does the Air Filter Do in the Refrigerator?
It is essential to properly install the air filter.
An air filter is 15 times more powerful than baking soda to eliminate common food odors inside the refrigerator.
On some models, your refrigerator’s accessory packet contains an air filter, which must be installed preceding to use.
The air filter is located on the back wall near the top of the refrigerator compartment.
Causes of Whirlpool Refrigerator Air Filter Noise
Different sources of noise in air filter are discussed below:
Clogged air filter
It is critical to keep the refrigerator air filter clean to keep running smooth operations of the refrigerator. Because when the air filter is not clean then it produces noise and also affects on the cooling process.
A clogged air filter might cause the refrigerator to work harder and consume more energy, resulting in increased electricity bills.
The dirty air filter also reduces the performance of the compressor which ultimately results in the low cooling process with the passage of time.
The fridge’s compressor will not work properly, creating many new issues.
So, the dirty air filter is the main cause that produces the noise.
Inappropriate installation
When the Whirlpool refrigerator produces a noise after changing the air filter, it usually sounds like a grinding noise.
Because when the air filter is not properly installed it does not work properly and as a result, it starts noise.
This might happen if a filter is destroyed or improperly placed.
If it is not installed in a proper way, it will start disturbing the working of the refrigerator as it will produce noise.
It will create disturbance and disrupt the refrigerator operations.
Overloaded filter
Another possible source of noise from the air filter is related to the size and capacity of the air filter.
It is quite possible that the air filter has reached its capacity.
Different air filters are required for different-sized areas.
Larger spaces necessitate more powerful filtration products.
Because of poor selection or poor judgment, many customers use little goods in broad areas.
This will inevitably maintain the filter’s power at its maximum functioning level, and the noise will increase dramatically.
The size of the filter is necessary to be considered for the desired refrigerator model.
Obstacles
There are chances that objects get caught in the air filter.
During use, some objects may accidentally fall inside the air filter, which then causes a blockage.
Hence disrupt the functionality and start producing loud which cause noise to people.
Over the meal, some leftovers are common things that may hinder the air filter way which then starts producing different rattling noises which is not desirable.
Hence, this is one of the possible reasons.
Compressor failure
It is quite possible that the changes in the compressor speed disturb the working of the air filter.
There are different scenarios where the compressor speed changes.
For example, different operating conditions require different rpm, of the compressor.
The compressor may stop spinning at high speed.
In other cases, a stopping compressor may increase its speed quickly which in turn disturbs the air filter too.
Thus, producing a noise.
Circulation fan issue
The circulation fan in the refrigerator moves air through the freezer and refrigerator areas.
The circulation fan is positioned on the rear of the refrigerator, directly behind an access panel.
It is quite possible that this fan stops working normally which in turn creates problems for the air filter.
The circulation fan may get disturbed either by a compressor or the motor not working normally.
Thus, they will disturb the circulation fan which in turn disturbs the air filter and noise will be produced.
Solutions to Tackle Whirlpool Refrigerator Air Filter Noise
Cleaning of Air filter
It is vital to keep the air filter clean since if dust particles or other material got stuck in the filter, then it would start producing noise.
Hence, it is necessary to avoid clogging of the air filter in order to avoid any noise from the air filter.
Air filters must be kept cleaned periodically for the smooth functioning of the refrigerator.
Over the time, it is necessary to replace them after a few months to avoid the issues caused by air filter.
Proper Installation
It has been observed that unusual or loud noises may occur during the operation of the air filter, which is unusual for the equipment and is usually the result of poor installation.
Every refrigerator should be able to stand flat and stable on a solid surface, without touching the wall or other objects.
If a person hears rattling noises, make sure the interior equipment is in place; it’s possible that the cans, bottles, or other containers are touching each other and producing the rattle.
Hence, proper installation is mandatory for the proper working of the air filter.
Keeping check the requirements
It is essential that the air filter of proper size and dimensions is installed in the refrigerator since improper sizing of the air filter tends to produce noise.
For proper sizing of the air filter, one should check the manual before installation of the air filter.
Once understand the requirements, then it will be installed in a proper way.
It is better to seek professional help for a proper understanding of the requirements of air filter in order to avoid problems later.
Proper placement of eatables
As discussed above that there are chances of improper placement of eatables which prove to be a hindrance in the working of air filter.
Hence it is essential to keep the eatables in a proper order.
Efficient use of things and equipment in the refrigerator is vital for the smooth working of the refrigerator.
It is necessary to keep the check and balance on the air filter periodically to check if there resides some unnecessary thing.
This issue cannot prevail if a person uses the refrigerator in an effective manner.
Compressor
The compressor may cause issues in the working of the air filter.
This essential component compressor circulates and condenses refrigerant in order to provide cool air for the refrigerator.
To avoid irregularities and noise in the air filter, then it is necessary to make sure that the compressor is running smoothly.
However, if the Whirlpool refrigerator makes a louder buzzing noise than usual, the compressor may be malfunctioning.
When this happens, it may continue to be loud for an extended amount of time with the noise in the air filter.
To resolve this issue, it should be addressed by an expert as soon as possible to avoid a sudden breakdown that puts stored items in peril.
Circulation Fan
For the smooth operation of the air filter, it is essential that the circulating fan must be working efficiently.
The smooth working of the circulating fan ensures the working of the air filter.
One must keep an eye on the working of the circulating fan for the proper working of the air filter.
References:
https://www.whirlpool.com/blog/kitchen/why-is-my-refrigerator-making-noise.html
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