Compressor shut-off klunking sound

[garyford]

I have a 2001 Kenmore (Whirlpool) 108.71194100 (top freezer) that makes a loud "ka-KLUNK" noise when the compressor shuts off; the noise can be heard throughout the house. When standing close to the refrigerator, the sound is "ka-KLUNK-thud-thud-thud", like dropping an orange that bounces a couple of times. I live in a rural area where the repair people want $300 to $400 just to come to look at it. Are there any repairs I can do myself? Thanks.

[HayZee518]

unfortunately no. the klunking is the compressor shutting off against a back pressure inside the unit. it could be lack of refrigerant lubrication that a home owner cannot replace

[LazyPup]

That klunking sound is a common problem that usually indicates one of the internal compressor/motor mounting springs has broken.

The bad news is that the entire motor/compressor assembly is built into a welded steel can and it is not accessible for repair.

This then leaves you with two choices.

1. You can have the compressor changed out, but that will probably cost more than the refrigerator is worth.

Or

2. You can live with the klunking noise. Aside from the noise there is no real problem.

I personally have a Whirlpool upright freezer that started making that klunking noise when it was 14 months old. It is now 16yrs old and still working fine.

[Dan O.]

internal compressor problems

.
LazyPup is correct, clunking at start up or shutdown is most often caused by an internal compressor suspension problem. It (the compressor) is not repairable.

You can put up with it until it dies completely (it could continue to function for years) or have the compressor replaced which would be an expensive repair (maybe $350+) if no longer covered by a warranty. It is not a job that just anyone can do, special training and tools are required.

In the mean time you might want to keep your eye out for a good sale on fridges unless it is an expensive model and in good condition worth putting that kind of money into eventually.

JMO

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~

[garyford]

Thanks for the helpful replies

Thanks to all who replied to my post. I plan to learn to ignore the noise.