Troubleshooting GE refrigerator error code F5

Is your GE refrigerator displaying error code F5? Don’t worry, this is a problem that you can troubleshoot and fix yourself without the need for a costly service call. 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

Error code F5 indicates a problem with the deli pan thermistor which is responsible for monitoring the temperature of the deli pan and providing that information to the refrigerator’s control board. When the control board detects an invalid or out-of-range reading from the thermistor, it will trigger the error code.

Read more: Noisy Refrigerator Fixes: Top 7 Reasons & Ways to Troubleshoot

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
• Wire strippers
• Multimeter
• Silicone grease
• Bell connectors

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 fix your refrigerator when it’s too cold

Troubleshooting steps

Access the deli pan thermistor

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the outlet.
2. Remove the vegetable bins, vegetable bins cover, and deli pan.
3. Remove the two 1/4 in. hex head screws from the top of the deli pan covers.
4. Lift the front deli pan cover, disconnect the wire harness, and place the cover on a protective surface. On 22 cu. ft. models, the connector is on the right.
5. Locate the shield over the circuit board, which is attached to the cover with 7 tabs.
6. Simultaneously press each of the three bottom tabs while lifting the bottom of the circuit board shield.
7. Slide the circuit board shield out from the four top tabs.
8. Remove the two T-15 Torx screws from the circuit board.
9. Turn the circuit board shield over to access the thermistor.
10. Pull the thermistor out from the four tabs in the circuit board shield.

Test the thermistor

1. Remove the thermistor and place it in a glass of ice water (approximately 33°F) for several minutes.
2. Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the thermistor. It should read approximately 16k ohms when in the ice water.
3. After testing in the ice water, check the resistance at room temperature. It should read approximately 6k ohms.
4. If the thermistor does not read the expected resistance values, it is faulty and needs to be replaced.
5. If the thermistor tests within the normal range at both temperatures and the error code continues, replace the main control board.

Reassembly steps

1. Place the replacement thermistor next to the original thermistor.
2. Cut the wiring at a location that will match the original length when the replacement thermistor is spliced to it.
3. Use plastic bell connectors. Fill each connector with silicone grease, then splice the new thermistor into the harness.
4. Slide the circuit board shield back into the four top tabs and secure the three bottom tabs.
5. Reattach the circuit board using the two T-15 Torx screws.
6. Reconnect the wire harness and replace the front deli pan cover, securing it with the two 1/4 in. hex head screws.
7. Reinstall the vegetable bins, vegetable bins cover, and deli pan.
8. Plug the refrigerator back into the outlet.

Read more: Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling?  

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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