Troubleshooting GE refrigerator error code F105

Is your GE refrigerator displaying error code F105? 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

The error code F105 indicates that there is an issue with the condenser fan in the machine compartment. The condenser fan is responsible for circulating air over the condenser coils to dissipate heat from the refrigeration system. The condenser fan motor may have failed, preventing the fan from running and properly circulating air over the condenser. This can lead to the refrigeration system overheating and triggering the error code.

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: 7 refrigerator tips to keep your food & family safe

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: A Complete Guide to Refrigerator Organization   

Troubleshooting steps

Condenser fan access

1. The condenser fan is located in the machine compartment on the back of the appliance between the 3-way valve and the condenser.
2. The machine compartment cover is held to the rear of the refrigerator with six 1/4 in. hex head screws.
3. After removing the screws, the cover can then be lifted from the two bottom tabs.
4. When re-installing the machine compartment cover, make sure to place the two cover tabs behind the chassis before installing the screws. The machine compartment cover must be properly installed to ensure air passes through the condenser.
5. Remove the 1/4 in. hex head screw that attaches the 3-way valve bracket and rubber grommet to the refrigerator.
6. Carefully reposition the 3-way valve and drier to gain better access to the condenser fan and valve wire harnesses.
7. Disconnect the wire harness attached to the back of the 3-way valve coil.
8. Disconnect the fan and valve wire harness from the cabinet.
9. Remove the 1/4 in. screw to dismount the water valve from the right rear of the machine compartment, then move it to the side. The water line can stay connected.
10. Remove the 1/4 in. screw from the right side of the condenser.
11. Slide the condenser to the right to disengage it from the shroud.
12. Carefully pull the discharge tube from the notch at the bottom of the shroud.
13. Pull the shroud outward and over the discharge tube to disengage the 4 tabs at the bottom to remove it from the base pan.

Test the fan motor

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the appliance needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

1. Check for any physical damage to the motor, fan blades and wiring harness.
2. Check for any debris or ice preventing the fan blade from turning.
3. Set your multimeter to measure voltage (AC). With the refrigerator plugged in and running, measure the voltage at the motor terminals.
4. The voltage should be between 100-130 VAC when the motor is running.
5. If there is correct voltage and the fan does not run, the fan motor will need to be replaced.
6. If the voltage is not within this range, check for issues with the wiring to the fan motor, otherwise the control board will need to be replaced.

Read more: Causes of condensation around a refrigerator’s French doors

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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