Thermoelectric mini fridges use a fan as part of their cooling system. Because the fan runs while the appliance is operating, some sound is normal and does not usually indicate a fault.
This model has a rated noise level of approximately 30 decibels (dB), placing it within the ultra-quiet range for this type of appliance. However, the fridge is not designed to operate completely silently.
Why the Fridge Makes a Fan Noise
Unlike some compressor-based appliances, smaller thermoelectric fridges rely on a fan to move air and remove heat from the cooling system.
Normal operating sounds may include:
A steady fan noise
A gentle humming sound
Light vibration
Changes in fan sound as the appliance warms up or cools down
The noise may be more noticeable in a quiet room, particularly at night.
Check for Fan Obstructions
Switch off and unplug the fridge before inspecting the fan and ventilation area.
Check for anything that may be obstructing the fan, including:
Dust
Hair
Packaging material
Debris
Foreign objects
Items placed too close to the rear vents
An obstruction can make the fan louder and may also reduce cooling performance.
Clean the Fan Area
With the fridge switched off and unplugged, carefully clean around the fan and ventilation openings using:
A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment
A clean, dry, soft brush
A dry cloth
Do not insert fingers or objects into the fan blades.
Do not spray water or cleaning products into the vents, fan, or electrical components.
Make Sure the Fridge Is Stable
A fan can cause additional vibration if the appliance is placed on an uneven, hollow, or hard surface.
Check that the fridge is:
Standing firmly
Level and stable
Not rocking
Positioned on a flat surface
Not touching a wall, cupboard, or nearby object
Items touching the fridge may vibrate and make the normal fan noise appear louder.
Reduce Surface Vibration
Hard surfaces such as laminate, tiles, wooden furniture, or hollow shelving can amplify vibration.
Placing a small piece of soft, stable material beneath the rear foot may help reduce transmitted noise.
Suitable options may include:
A small piece of carpet
A rubber anti-vibration pad
A suitable appliance mat
Make sure the material does not:
Cause the fridge to become unstable
Block any ventilation openings
Place the appliance at an excessive angle
Create a fire or heat risk
The fridge must remain secure and properly ventilated.
Allow Adequate Ventilation
Restricted airflow can cause the fan to work harder and may make the appliance appear noisier.
Make sure:
The rear ventilation openings are clear.
The fridge is not pushed tightly against a wall.
Nothing is covering the fan.
The appliance is not installed inside an enclosed cupboard.
There is enough space around the fridge for heat to escape.
Check the Contents of the Fridge
Sometimes the sound may appear to come from the fan when it is actually being caused by items vibrating inside the fridge.
Check that:
Bottles and cans are not touching each other.
Items are not resting against the internal walls.
Shelves are correctly fitted.
Loose accessories are securely positioned.
Nothing is rattling against the door.
Rearranging the contents may reduce vibration noise.
When Fan Noise May Indicate a Problem
Contact Subcold Customer Service if the fan produces:
Grinding
Scraping
Repeated clicking
Loud rattling
Squealing
Intermittent stopping and starting
A sudden increase in noise
Noise accompanied by reduced cooling
Also contact support if the fan does not appear to run at all.
Information to Provide to Customer Service
When contacting support, please provide:
The fridge model
The batch or serial number
Your order number or proof of purchase
A short video or audio recording of the noise
Whether the noise is constant or intermittent
Whether the fridge is cooling correctly
Where the appliance is installed
Whether the fan area has been checked and cleaned
This information will help the support team determine whether the sound is normal fan operation, surface vibration, an obstruction, or a fault with the fan or power supply.