Quiet Bar Fridge: How to Choose a Low-Noise Model
A bar fridge in a living room, bedroom or home theatre needs to stay in the background. If the compressor hums or the fan whirs during a movie, you will notice. Here is how to choose a quiet bar fridge.
Understand the decibel rating
Noise is measured in decibels (dB). As a rough guide, models in the low to high 30s are very quiet, while forced-air commercial units can reach the mid-40s, which is fine behind a bar but noticeable next to a television. Compare the dB figure listed in the product specifications, and remember that a few decibels is a noticeable difference.
What makes a fridge noisy?
- Compressor: a standard compressor cycles on and off, and cheaper compressors can be louder.
- Fan: forced-air cooling is more even but adds fan noise.
- Vibration: a fridge on an uneven floor or touching a wall can rattle.
- Echo: hard surfaces make any noise louder.
Compressor vs thermoelectric
Thermoelectric mini fridges have no compressor and are very quiet, but they cool poorly when the room is warm and are not suited to Australian summers. A compressor bar fridge cools far better and, in a good quiet running model, is quiet enough for most rooms.
Look for quiet running models
Many bar fridges in our range are described as quiet running, including the Schmick HUS-RND70B, a compact rounded 68 litre model, and the front venting Schmick SK156R-HD. Browse the full single door bar fridge range and compare noise ratings on each product page.
Placement helps
- Level the fridge with the adjustable feet.
- Leave a small gap from walls so it does not vibrate against them.
- Keep it out of direct sun so the compressor runs less.
- Avoid placing it directly against a wall that backs onto a bedroom.
Quiet and efficient go together
A well-insulated fridge with good door seals runs its compressor less, which means less noise and lower running costs. See our guide to cutting bar fridge running costs.
Quiet bar fridge FAQs
How quiet is a quiet bar fridge?
Check the decibel rating in the specifications. Figures in the low to high 30s are very quiet, while forced-air commercial fridges can be louder. Even a few decibels is a noticeable difference in a quiet room.
Why is my bar fridge so noisy?
Common causes are an uneven floor, the fridge touching a wall or cabinet, dust on the condenser, or a fan or compressor working hard in a hot room. Levelling the feet and allowing ventilation space often helps.
Is a thermoelectric mini fridge quieter?
Thermoelectric fridges have no compressor and are very quiet, but they cool poorly in warm rooms. A quiet running compressor bar fridge is usually the better choice in Australian conditions.