Ticking noise from fan in refrigerator?

Question

Hi

A few days ago, my refrigerator (Bauknecht which has an 8 year warranty on parts) started making a ticking noise everytime the fan ran.

Now I took off the back panel and heard the noise is definitely coming from the fan.

I vacuumed out all the dust and replaced the panel.

It will cost me $50 to have the service guy come out to replace this fan.

The fan itself is free but the service call costs.

BUT, how long can I safely use my refrigerator before I need to call him?

$50 is a lot of money right now.

And the fridge is working fine.

Can I safely use it until the fan stops working or should I not risk it since maybe the noise means I only have 1-2 weeks before it dies?

I do not want to lose all my food.

So I guess the question is: Anyone know how long I can safely use my refrigerator with this loud ticking noise before I need to replace the fan?

Thanks

Answer 1

This is a shot in the dark, did you try unscrewing the fan and rescrewing it back in; this can solve the problem sometimes.

Answer 2

hi just make sure the fan isnt catching on something before waiting for it to die.. its quite unlikely that the fan it self is  making the noise..good luck

Answer 3

This is the evaporator fan, usually when they wear out, they emit a sound like a bird call, (seriously) as the sleeve bearings bind.   Will they send the part without the service-man?

You might find it cheaper to buy the part and put it in yourself.

Two screws, and unplug the snap-connector wiring.

It sounds like you already know how to dismantle it!