Symptoms
- Loud rushing or hissing sound during fill
- Banging or thumping in the walls when the valve opens or closes
- Noise happens at the same point in every cycle
- Noise seems louder than it used to be
Likely causes
- CommonNormal water valve operation amplified by house pipesSome fill noise is normal; older or unsecured pipes can resonate and seem louder.
- CommonHigh water pressure to the unitExcess pressure makes the fill valve open and close more forcefully, increasing noise.
- PossibleWater hammer from a fast-closing valveSudden valve closure can cause a banging shock wave in nearby pipes.
- PossibleLoose water line vibrating against the cabinetAn unsecured line can rattle against the fridge or wall during fill.
What to do
- Check if the noise happens at the very start or end of the fill cycle, which points toward valve opening or closing.
- Inspect the visible water line for contact points against the cabinet or wall and add a clip or padding if it's rattling.
- If house water pressure is unusually high (above 80 psi), consider having a plumber install a pressure regulator.
- Ask about installing a water hammer arrestor near the fridge's shutoff valve if banging is heard in the walls.
- Confirm the fill valve is fully functional and not partially stuck, which can cause erratic noise.
- If noise is a minor hiss during normal fill timing, this is likely just normal operation and no action is needed.
Tools and parts
- Cable clips or foam padding
Water hammer arrestorSearch: “water hammer arrestor for ice maker line”
When to call a pro
If banging in the walls continues, a plumber can install a water hammer arrestor or check house water pressure.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.