While it can be a shock to see a refrigerator fault code on its display panel, it’s not always bad news. In fact, it can be a blessing in disguise. The fault code will tell you which part of the fridge is faulty and consequently, what needs to be repaired or replaced.
In many cases, faults only require a simple fix you can manage by yourself but in some instances, you may need to call for professional help. If you do, the fault code will make diagnosing and repairing your refrigerator a faster and more efficient process, which will help to reduce your costs.
In this article, we explain the most common refrigerator fault codes for leading brands including Whirlpool, Samsung and GE, so you can identify exactly what’s wrong with your fridge.
Whirlpool refrigerator fault codes
|
Error Code |
The Fault |
The Likely Fix |
|
d - refrigerator display |
A stuck air damper |
The air damper is responsible for controlling the airflow. A ‘d’ error code means that it is damaged and needs to be replaced. |
|
C - refrigerator display |
A refrigerator temperature sensor (or compartment thermistor) failure |
The refrigerator temperature sensor harness may have come loose. If that’s not the case, the entire temperature sensor will need to be replaced. |
|
C - freezer display |
A freezer temperature sensor (or compartment thermistor) failure |
The freezer temperature sensor harness may have come loose. If that’s not the case, the entire temperature sensor will need to be replaced. |
|
CF - freezer display |
Failure in communication between the user interface control and control board |
The wire connections on the main control board and user interface control may have come loose. If that’s not the case, the entire board will need to be replaced. |
|
18 degrees F or -8 degrees C temperature reading - freezer display |
An over-temperature condition |
An over-temperature condition can be the result of a power failure, so make sure the refrigerator is plugged in securely. After the freezer has cooled to its usual temperature, reset the display through the freezer temperature keypad. |
Samsung refrigerator fault codes
|
Error Code |
The Fault |
The Likely Fix |
|
22E or 22C |
A fridge fan error - can happen if the refrigerator door is left open for too long |
Unplug the fridge and leave the door open for a few hours. Then plug the fridge back in and close the door. Normal operations should resume after that. |
|
41/42 and interior blue lights flashing |
An issue specific to Samsung Family Hub fridges |
Restart the Family Hub with the power button at the upper right hand corner of the fridge door. If the error does not disappear, your fridge needs servicing. |
|
41C |
A problem with Samsung French door refrigerators |
Download the latest refrigerator software update and press OK. If the error does not disappear, your fridge needs servicing. |
|
76C (blinking autofill indicator) |
Water has been detected in the autofill compartment |
Drain the autofill compartment and inspect the pitcher and lid for cracks. If they are damaged, get them replaced. If there is no damage, dry all the pieces and return to their respective places. If the leak continues, give us a call. |
|
85C |
Low voltage on the power source of Family Hub refrigerators |
Press and hold the OK button for 3 seconds. |
|
88, 83E, 85E or 86E |
Lost power or the power indicator is blinking on and off |
Unplug your refrigerator and wait a minute before plugging it back in. |
|
5E, 1E or SE |
These error codes are caused by a power outage and may prevent the fridge from dispensing water or ice |
Press the Lighting and Energy Saver button at the same time, holding for a few seconds. |
|
Flashing OF OF or O FF |
The fridge door has been left open and it’s entered Cooling Off Mode |
Close the fridge doors and allow the entire fridge to cool. |
|
PC ER |
Interference between refrigerator doors and refrigerator body |
Check for any obvious signs of interference. If the problem continues, unplug the fridge. After which, disconnect the wire door harness before reconnecting it and restoring the power. |
|
All icons are flashing |
This is the Samsung diagnostic code |
This error usually occurs after initial plugging or a power outage. It’s nothing to worry about – just a self-diagnostic running itself. |
GE refrigerator fault codes
|
Error Code |
The Fault |
The Likely Fix |
|
FF/CC |
The temperature is rising excessively |
Make sure the refrigerator and freezer doors have been closed properly and replace the door seals (or gaskets) if necessary. Then press the system check button to clear the error code. If the PF code appears, the error was caused by a power failure. Keep the doors closed and the temperature should return to its normal level. |
|
PF |
The power has been interrupted |
Make sure the fridge is securely plugged in. If the power cord is damaged, get it replaced. Press the System Check button to clear the error code and check for any other failures. |
|
CI |
The ice maker is not working properly |
Check for jammed ice cubes in the ice mold and remove them. After which, ensure that there is water in the ice maker. Press the System Check button to clear the error message. If the CI code reappears, the ice maker assembly will need to be replaced. |
|
DF |
Defrost system error |
If you see this error code, it means that the defrost cycle has not been operating properly for at least 48 hours. Check if there are loose wires in the defrost system and get a new wire harness if it is damaged. Similarly, replace the defrost heater if it has been damaged, resetting the system by pressing the System Check switch. If there’s an ambient temperature of lower than 55 degrees F, it may be understandable that the fridge has not defrosted itself for 48 hours or more. |
|
dE |
Defrost system error |
This means that the defrost system has not been operating properly for the last 24 hours. Take the same steps as listed above (error code DF) and press the System Check button. If the problem persists, your refrigerator needs servicing. |
Seek professional help
These potential fixes to common refrigerator fault codes should be treated as a guide only. Attempting anything other than the simplest fix without professional help can do more harm than good. The best course of action would be to get in touch, by telling us your refrigerator brand and the error message you see, and we will send you a free quote.