Display shows E3 and freezer may not defrost, leading to frost buildup on the evaporator.

Safety First: Unplug the freezer before accessing the evaporator or defrost components.

E3 indicates the control detects a defrost system problem.

• Step 1 – Inspect evaporator: Remove the rear interior panel. If the evaporator is encased in solid frost, the defrost system is not working.
• Step 2 – Test defrost heater: Disconnect the heater leads and measure resistance. A typical Frigidaire defrost heater will show a finite resistance (often 20–100Ω). If open (OL), replace the heater.
• Step 3 – Check defrost thermostat: With the coil cold (below freezing), test continuity across the defrost thermostat. It should read closed (0Ω). If open when cold, replace the thermostat.
• Step 4 – Inspect wiring: Check the harness from heater and thermostat back to the control board for burns, breaks, or loose connectors.
• Step 5 – Control board: If heater and thermostat test good and wiring is intact, the defrost relay or logic on the control board is likely faulty. Replace the electronic control board.
• Step 6 – Manual defrost (temporary): To restore cooling temporarily, defrost the evaporator with a hair dryer on low, keeping the heat moving and away from plastic. Do not use sharp tools to chip ice.