Quiet refrigerators?

A number of refrigerators have "quiet packages" and cost under $1,000. Check out the GE or Maytag websites for example. You may be able to get an actual db reading on those sites. I tried to get to my Consumer Reports website for specific info but can't get in for some reason -- I'm a member and tried to resubscribe and they wouldn't let me. Well, I'm not voting for Ralph Nader!!!! ;-)

I went through this process about 3 years ago. At the time the Maytag top freezer models were supposed to be about the quietest conventional types. The side by sides are noisier. I bought a Maytag 24 cu. ft. unit for about $1000. It's pretty quiet, but the main reason it's quiet is it doesn't run much. It can make some wierd sounds when it's self-defrosting, though. I think the key to getting a quiet refrigerator is getting an efficient one. They all make some noise, but are nearly silent when idle.

My fridge is about 12 feet behind my listening chair, in a semi-enclosed kitchen, and I rarely notice the noise, and I don't play my music loud at all (65dB avg). My HVAC system is far noisier than the fridge.

I've read that if you can spend big bucks, you can get remote compressor models that are very quiet, but I've never heard them.

I know you said you have a limited budget, but if you hit the lottery and get a chance to buy a SubZero-DON'T!!

Mine underwent more than six service calls in less than a year. Repairman determined it was incorrectly wired at the factory. Also many repairmen told me the units are prone to problems.

After too much negotiating, I got a replacement from the company.

It is dead quiet, though.