Troubleshooting GE refrigerator error code F713

Is your  GE refrigerator displaying error code F713? Don’t worry, this is a problem that you can fix yourself without the need for a costly service call and we’re here to help you do it!

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your appliance while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The error code information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. The disassembly information is based on GE models Adora, Cafe, and Profile french door refrigerators from 2014-2015. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What the error code means

The error code F713 indicates that the refrigerator door has been open for 15 minutes or more without being closed. This error code is triggered by the door switch, which is designed to detect when the refrigerator door is open.

This error code is the refrigerator’s way of alerting the user that the refrigerator door has been left open for too long. To resolve the error, check that the refrigerator door is closing properly and the door switch is functioning correctly.

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it.
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts.

Read more: How To Deep Clean Your Refrigerator

Tools and materials needed

• 1/4”, 5/16” and 3/8” Nut drivers, sockets or wrenches
• T15, T20 and T27Torx bits
• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Multimeter

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: How to clean and maintain your refrigerator’s water dispenser

Troubleshooting steps

Check for obstruction

1. Carefully inspect the refrigerator door and the surrounding area, including the inside cabinet, for any objects or debris that may be preventing the door from closing properly.
2. Look for things like boxes, containers, or even small items that may have fallen in front of the door.
3. Gently try to close the door and identify if there is any resistance or interference.
4. Remove any obstructions found and ensure the door can close freely.

Check the hinges and door

1. Examine the door hinges, both the upper and lower ones, for any signs of wear, damage, or misalignment.
2. Check if the hinges are securely fastened to the refrigerator cabinet and the door.
3. Assess if the door is sagging or not closing flush with the refrigerator cabinet. This could be a sign of issues with the hinges.
4. If the hinges appear worn or damaged, or the door is noticeably sagging, you may need to adjust the hinges or replace them altogether.

Check the door gasket

1. Thoroughly inspect the door gasket (also known as the door seal) around the entire perimeter of the door.
2. Look for any cracks, tears, or areas where the gasket is no longer providing a tight seal.
3. Check if the gasket is clean and pliable, or if it has become stiff or brittle over time.
4. Run your fingers along the gasket to feel for any gaps or areas where the seal is not making consistent contact with the refrigerator cabinet.
5. If the gasket is damaged or no longer providing an effective seal, replace it with a new one designed for your specific refrigerator model.

Check wiring

1. Locate the door switch wiring, which is usually routed through the hinge cover or along the top of the refrigerator cabinet.
2. Inspect the wiring for any loose, damaged, or disconnected connections.
3. Ensure the wiring is properly routed and secured, without any kinks or tight bends that could cause issues.
4. If you find any damaged or problematic wiring, carefully repair or replace the affected sections.

Test the door switches

1. Remove the hinge cover to gain access to the door switches. The cover is typically secured with several ¼ inch hex head screws.
2. Identify the right door switch (with two terminals) and the left door switch (with three terminals).
3. Disconnect the wiring from the switches and press the switch plungers fully inward to lift the switches out of the hinge cover guides.
4. Use a multimeter to test the door switches and verify their proper functioning. The switches should register a change in continuity when the door is opened and closed.
5. For the two-terminal right door switch, touch one probe to each terminal.
6. For the three-terminal left door switch, touch one probe to the common terminal (usually the middle one) and the other probe to each of the other two terminals.
7. With the door open, the multimeter should indicate an open circuit (no continuity or high resistance).
8. With the door closed, the multimeter should indicate a closed circuit (continuity or low resistance).
9. Replace the switches if they test bad.

Read more: The inner workings of refrigerators explained

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your GE refrigerator working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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