E1 Moderate Easy DIY

GE Refrigerator E1 — Freezer temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

GE Refrigerator · Error code E1

What E1 Means

Freezer temperature sensor (thermistor) fault.

Most Likely Fix

Freezer temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

PartFreezer thermistor
Typical cost$10-25
Difficultyeasy
Time30 min

Tools: screwdriver, multimeter

Diagnose first: Thermistor reads out of spec or open. Test resistance per service sheet (~16k ohms in ice bath). Replace if open, shorted, or wildly off.

Find this part on Amazon →

If the primary fix doesn't resolve it:

PartMain control board
Typical cost$120-300
Find this part on Amazon →

Symptoms

  • E1 shown on the display
  • Freezer temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

Common Causes

1
Most likely: Freezer thermistor

Thermistor reads out of spec or open. Test resistance per service sheet (~16k ohms in ice bath). Replace if open, shorted, or wildly off.

2
Next most likely: Main control board

If the primary fix does not resolve the code, this is the next part to test.

How to Fix It

  1. Thermistor reads out of spec or open. Test resistance per service sheet (~16k ohms in ice bath). Replace if open, shorted, or wildly off.
  2. If diagnosis confirms the fault, replace the freezer thermistor (typical cost $10-25, about 30 min, easy DIY).
  3. Still throwing E1? Test the main control board next ($120-300).

Parts You May Need

If diagnosis points to a failed part, these are the common replacements. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Common replacement Freezer thermistor View on Amazon→ Common replacement Main control board View on Amazon→

More GE Refrigerator Codes

AF AF — Air filter replacement reminder CC CC — Fresh-food temperature out of range CI CI — Check Ice Maker dE dE — Defrost system fault dF dF — Defrost cycle failure E2 E2 — Fresh food temperature sensor (thermistor) fault

All GE codes → All refrigerator codes →

Always unplug an appliance before servicing it. This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for a qualified technician.