Purchased a Kenmore bottom-freezer refrigerator (Model 596.6931…) (19 cu ft) about 2 weeks ago. Functionally and space-wise, it is very good. But it is the noisiest refrigerator we have ever been around. About half the time when it is running, it makes popping and crackling noises – almost like it is making popcorn. We thought this might be a "start-up" thing as described in the manual, but it is still continuing. If you expect to have this refrigerator in an area that you use frequently (like a kitchen), do NOT buy this model. It might be fine in a basement or garage, but not in your living space. Much too noisy for a normal household kitchen.
