Troubleshooting GE refrigerator error code F3

Is your GE refrigerator displaying error code F3? 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 F3 indicates a problem with the freezer cabinet thermistor which is responsible for monitoring the temperature inside the freezer compartment 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.

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.

Read more: Refrigerator Not Defrosting: Top 6 Reasons & How to Fix

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
• Bell connectors
• Silicone grease
• Foil sensor cover

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: Refrigerator or Freezer That’s Too Warm: Top 6 Reasons and Fixes  

Troubleshooting steps

Testing the thermistor

1. Unplug the refrigerator and remove the shelves in the freezer to access the sensor grille cover on the right wall of the freezer section.
2. Insert a small flat blade screwdriver under the thermistor cover and gently lift the edge until it releases from the ceiling. The thermistor grille uses an alignment tab to ensure proper grille placement, and it also uses two snap tabs to lock it into the liner.
3. Peel back the foil insulation from the cover.
4. Pull the thermistor out from the four tabs in the cover.
5. Place the thermistor in a glass of ice water (approximately 33°F) for several minutes.
6. Using a multimeter, check the resistance of the thermistor. It should read approximately 16k ohms when in the ice water.
7. After testing in the ice water, check the resistance at room temperature. It should read approximately 6k ohms.
8. If the thermistor does not read the expected resistance values, it is faulty and needs to be replaced.
9. If the thermistor tests within the normal range at both temperatures and the error code continues, replace the main control board.

Replacing the thermistor

1. Cut the thermistor wiring as close to the thermistor as possible.
2. Strip the outer insulation from the thermistor case harness back 1 inch. Strip the two internal wires back 3/16 inch for splicing.
3. Prepare the replacement thermistor by cutting the wiring 4 inches back from the thermistor and strip the wires back 3/16 inch.
4. Using two bell connectors, splice the wiring. After the splices are complete, fill the bell connectors full with silicone grease.
5. Snap the thermistor into the grille and replace the foil insulation inside the cover. Place excess wiring into the thermistor pocket, then snap the grille back into the liner, taking note of the alignment pin.
6. Plug in the refrigerator and test the new thermistor to ensure it is working correctly.

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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