Refridgerator Error Codes: Is Professional Service Needed?
New technology in refrigerators makes it a lot easier to diagnose issues when a problem has occurred. Instead of guessing or listening for strange noises, a display indicator on a fridge will show an error message or a variety of flashing lights. Taking a few minutes to diagnose and determine the exact problem will help you decide whether you should call for refrigerator repair service or attempt a solution on your own. By breaking down the different problems, you can prepare and understand why the code appeared in the first place.
Communication Errors
When using panels and custom refrigerator settings, the appliance often uses computer boards and circuits to relay information. When there is a problem relaying this information, the fridge will display a communication error. For example, on a some fridges, communication errors appear as "F-10." Sometimes these errors occur randomly due to a short in the electronic components.
Before calling a service technician, you should unplug the fridge for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and then see if the error message appears again. If the error message continuously appears, you should contact a technician for repairs. One of the upsides of this error is that the basic functions of your fridge will work. There's no need to clear out food or stop the appliance from operating normally.
Frost Errors
As frost builds up in the freezer compartment, the appliances have built in alerts and error codes to make you aware of this problem. Frost errors are one of the more basic problems and often do not need a service call unless the frost is occurring on a daily basis. Error codes like "IF" or "FRST" represent different issues with frosting. Error codes are different for each manufacturer, so it's important to diagnose the codes through the manual or a troubleshooting website for your specific model.
Along with removing the build-up from fans and other areas, you can also improve the issue by properly leveling the refrigerator. When the appliance is tilted, water and moisture can flow to a specific area and create the extra frost.
Sensor Errors
Refrigerators are filled with all types of sensors to gauge temperatures and properly control different compartments of the appliance. These sensors are sensitive and can easily malfunction. A wire can break, a sensor can die, or the mechanism can become pinched within the components of the fridge. Along with the error, you may notice that items are too cold or not cold enough. This problem is commonly associated with sensors not reading temperatures correctly.
With all the different sensors located inside a fridge, it's not a good idea to mess with them when an error occurs. By calling a repair technician, they can order the proper sensor and replace it. New sensors will also help give you more accurate readings and settings for the fridge.
Power Failures
During a power glitch or full outage, you may experience a power failure on the fridge. This can display in a number of different ways including "PF," "E-0," or "F-1." This is one of the easiest errors to fix and will usually clear up within just a few minutes. Unplug your fridge for 30 seconds to clear the code. This will help reset the circuits and return your fridge to a normal state. Once you plug the fridge back in, everything should reset and go back to normal. Some of the newer appliances will even let you clear the code without unplugging the fridge. Check your manual to find the proper operation buttons that will clear the go and return the appliance to a normal state.
Ice Maker Errors
If your refrigerator makes ice, then there are number of errors that may occur. A water line could be clogged or leaking. The fans and technology used in the ice maker could be malfunctioning. To help prevent major issues with your fridge, you should contact a service technician. Do not attempt to make more ice or mess with any of the parts. A lot of ice makers include large blades that are used for chopping ice down. This is a dangerous area that only professionals should handle and deal with.
If you have additional questions or concerned, you can call a service technician to express these issues. Often, a lot of questions can be answered over the phone and you can easily determine whether you should have them come for repairs.