Product review (3 stars): It *IS* noisy = Disappointed owner.
Like other reviewers have said, this IS a relatively noisy fridge. 'Makes even more noise than the 25 year old Kenmore that it replaced.

I was aware of this potential problem (and a few other problems related to door seals and Freezer being too warm) before buying, but disregarded the noise problem because of the size & cost. It stands alone in a small kitchen, and can be heard in all the upstairs rooms when the compressor is running.

As a built-in fridge, the problem may be diminished, but as a free-standing appliance in a small house, it IS loud.

This refrigerator has proven to be what I was hoping it was not:  Irritatingly Noisy.

UPDATE:  I posted this same review on the GE official Website, and my review "did not meet the guidelines for posting on our website". Presumably because I told the truth about the gasket/heat and noise problems. Way to go GE! Now I'm really impressed. <thumbs up>