Why Does My Fridge Click But Not Start?

What the clicking usually means

That clicking sound is often the compressor's start relay or overload protector trying to engage the compressor and failing, then resetting and trying again. It's a symptom, not a diagnosis on its own — a few different underlying issues can cause it.

Common causes behind the click

• A failing start relay or capacitor that can't get the compressor running
• An overload protector repeatedly tripping because the compressor is drawing too much current
• A compressor motor winding that's beginning to fail internally
• Low voltage reaching the unit, which can prevent a normal compressor from starting properly

Why we don't recommend testing this yourself

Diagnosing which of these is actually happening requires testing the relay, capacitor, and windings with the right equipment. Repeatedly power-cycling a fridge that's clicking can add further strain to a compressor that's already struggling, so it's worth having it looked at rather than leaving it to keep cycling on its own.

See our compressor repair page for what a diagnostic visit covers, and read about other signs your compressor may be failing.