Samsung Smart TVs are popular devices that combine internet connectivity and streaming capabilities with a high quality display. However, some users have reported hearing strange noises coming from their TV, which can be concerning and disruptive.
The noise manifests in different ways, from buzzing, humming, clicking, popping sounds and more. It may occur randomly, when turning the TV on/off, or persistently. The source of the noise can vary – from faulty hardware components like capacitors and fans, to software bugs and ambient interference.
Troubleshooting the root cause and implementing solutions is important for restoring normal audio function. This guide examines the common culprits behind Samsung Smart TV noise issues, and provides fixes to eliminate sounds and get your set working properly again.
Common Causes of Noise
There are a few common causes of noise that can occur in Samsung Smart TVs:
Bad Capacitors
One of the most typical reasons a Samsung TV may make abnormal noises is due to faulty capacitors. Capacitors help regulate power in the TV and can wear out over time. As they start to fail, you may hear odd noises from the TV like cracking, popping, buzzing, or humming sounds. This tends to happen when the TV is turned on or off as power fluctuates through the failing capacitors. Replacing bad capacitors is often an effective solution (Source).
Faulty Power Supply
The power supply inside the TV converts AC power to DC power to run the electronics. If it is damaged or defective, abnormal noises can occur from electrical feedback. Buzzing, crackling, popping or humming noises may come from a faulty power supply or loose connection. Replacing the power supply module often resolves these types of sounds (Source).
Fan Issues
Samsung TVs utilize internal fans to keep components cool. If a fan becomes dirty, obstructed or worn out, excess noise can occur as the fan struggles to operate. Cleaning or replacing the TV fan will typically stop fan-related noises.
Noise from Capacitors
One common cause of buzzing or clicking noises in Samsung Smart TVs is failed or faulty capacitors. Capacitors are electrical components that store and regulate power in the TV. However, some older Samsung TV models used lower quality capacitors that can degrade and fail over time.
Faulty capacitors may bulge or leak fluid. As they fail, they can cause interference and noise in the audio circuitry. This results in buzzing, clicking, humming or high pitched whining from the speakers. According to Witonics, common capacitor-related issues in Samsung TVs include powering on/off problems, no picture or sound, lines on the screen, and buzzing noises.
Replacing the bad capacitors with higher quality ones will typically resolve the noise. This repair requires soldering skills and can be complex depending on the TV model. In some cases, entire capacitor repair kits with replacement capacitors, solder and wick are available to fix noisy Samsung TVs.
Faulty Power Supply
The power supply is one of the main components that can be the source of humming or buzzing noises in Samsung Smart TVs. The power supply converts the AC electricity from the wall outlet into low voltage DC current that powers the TV’s internal components. If there are issues with the power supply, it can lead to audible coil whine or buzzing coming from the TV.
Coil whine is caused by vibrations in the coils and transformers of the power supply at certain frequencies. This occurs when the power supply is defective and operating outside normal parameters. Older power supplies may start to fail as capacitors wear out over time, causing the voltages to fluctuate and induce coil whine.1
Buzzing noises can also come from a faulty power supply fan. These fans help keep the power supply cool, but the bearings can wear out over time and cause buzzing as the fan spins. Alternatively, debris build up on the fan blades can lead to an imbalance and vibration. Replacing the power supply or fan is the definitive solution in these cases.
If the TV turns on but there is still a constant buzzing sound, the voltages being output by the power supply are likely unstable. Capacitors may need to be replaced to smooth out the power delivery. Any distortion or noise indicates the power supply should be repaired or replaced to stop the buzzing issue.
Fan Noise
One of the most common causes of buzzing or humming noises in Samsung Smart TVs is the internal cooling fans (https://eu.community.samsung.com/t5/tv/high-buzzing-sound-from-my-tv-maybe-a-fan-problem/td-p/6767193). Modern TVs have powerful processors that generate a lot of heat. To keep the internal components from overheating, TVs use internal fans to circulate air and dissipate heat.
Over time, as TVs age and accumulate dust, the fans have to work harder to keep the components cool. This extra effort by the fans can lead to louder humming or buzzing noises, especially when the TV has been on for an extended period. The pitch or volume of the fan noise may increase as the TV heats up during use. Placement of the TV in an enclosed space can also cause fans to work harder and make more noise.
The buzzing sound usually goes away once the TV cools down after being turned off. If the noise persists even when the TV is cool, then the fan may be failing and need replacement. Samsung authorized service centers can diagnose fan issues and replace any defective cooling fans if needed.
Software/App Noise
Certain apps or features on a Samsung Smart TV can sometimes cause buzzing or coil whine noises from the hardware. This is because demanding apps like Netflix or gaming apps require more processing power, which ramps up the CPU usage. The increased electrical current flowing through components like inductors and capacitors in the power circuitry can cause buzzing or whining noises[1].
Streaming high definition or 4K video content is particularly demanding and commonly leads to coil whine on Samsung TVs. Try switching to lower resolution streaming if the buzzing occurs during streaming apps. Turning off motion smoothing features like Auto Motion Plus can also help reduce buzzing from streaming apps by lowering CPU demand. Finally, closing out of any unneeded apps can alleviate software-related buzzing noises.
Ambient Noise
Ambient Noise from the TV comes from interference with other devices. Electrical devices and appliances that are plugged into the same outlet or in close proximity to the TV can cause buzzing, humming, or crackling noises through electromagnetic interference. The Ambient Mode on Samsung Smart TVs displays artwork and can pick up this interference and output it through the speakers.
Having too many devices plugged into the same power strip or outlet as the TV can cause an overload on the electrical circuit and lead to interference. Other household items like fans, lamps, microwaves, or air conditioners can also emit electromagnetic frequencies that get picked up by the TV. In apartment buildings, interference can even come from neighboring units.
To resolve ambient noise issues, first try unplugging nearby appliances and devices one by one and see if the noise goes away. Do not overload outlets and use surge protectors. Also make sure cables connecting to the TV like HDMI, ethernet, etc. are not bunched or wrapped together as this can induce hum. Maintain a 2-3 feet distance between the TV and any electrical appliances.
Diagnosing the Issue
Pinpointing the exact source of the noise is key to fixing it. Here are some steps to help diagnose where it’s coming from:
Perform a sound test directly through your TV’s settings. Go to Settings > Sound > Expert Settings > Sound Test. This will play various tones through the speakers so you can isolate if the noise occurs only at certain frequencies.
Determine if the noise occurs only during certain apps or sources. For example, switch between different HDMI inputs or try streaming vs live TV. If the noise goes away on certain inputs, that points to that source component as the culprit.
Listen closely to pinpoint where the noise emanates from. Getting very close to the back of the TV can help detect if it’s coming from a specific component like the power supply or a loose connection.
Finally, try rebooting the TV and listening again. Noise arising only during startup could indicate a faulty component like capacitors.
Fixes and Solutions
If your Samsung Smart TV is making an annoying humming or buzzing noise, there are a few potential DIY fixes to try before calling for professional repair:
First, try unplugging the TV from power for 30 seconds and then plugging it back in. This can reset any software issues causing the noise 1.
Next, check the connections between the TV and external devices like cable boxes, Blu-ray players, and game consoles. Loose connections can cause buzzing or humming. Securely re-connect any loose cables.
Another option is to try factory resetting the TV, which will restore its original software settings. This can eliminate any problematic customized settings causing noise 2.
If these DIY solutions don’t work, the issue likely requires professional repair. Common causes like faulty capacitors, power supply issues, and problems with internal cooling fans will require a technician to diagnose and replace hardware components.
Seek repair from an authorized Samsung service center. Technicians there are best equipped with the knowledge, parts, and tools to correctly identify and fix noise issues in Samsung Smart TVs.
Preventing Future Noise Issues
There are some tips for proper maintenance and care that can help prevent noise problems in your Samsung Smart TV:
Clean the vents – Use a can of compressed air to clear dust buildup from the ventilation ports on the back and sides of the TV every few months. Blocked vents can cause overheating issues that lead to noises.1
Keep the TV updated – Install the latest firmware updates for your TV model regularly. Firmware updates often include fixes for software bugs that can cause audio issues.2
Avoid overheating – Make sure your TV has adequate ventilation and is not confined in a tight space. Overheating can put strain on components. Position the TV away from direct sunlight or heating vents.1
Handle with care – Use care when moving or cleaning your TV to avoid damaging internal components. Drops, bumps or rough handling can loosen connections over time.2
Use a surge protector – Connect your TV to a surge protector to avoid power fluctuations that can stress the power supply and cause audible buzzing or humming.1
Replace old cables – If you notice new noises, try swapping HDMI or other aged, worn cables that may be failing.
