Safety first: Slightly warm cabinet walls are normal; excessively hot surfaces may indicate a problem.

Check ventilation: Ensure there is adequate clearance around the freezer (per GE specs, typically several inches at sides, back, and top).
Clean condenser coils: Unplug the unit and vacuum dust from the condenser coils and grille.
Monitor temperature: If the sides are too hot to touch comfortably and the compressor runs constantly, have a technician inspect for airflow or sealed system issues.

Freezer cabinet sides feel very hot to the touch

Possible Causes