GE freezer display shows dF or DF and unit may be in extended defrost or not cooling temporarily

Important: On some GE freezers, a dF indication is normal during a defrost cycle and will clear automatically. Only treat as a fault if the freezer stays warm and dF remains for an extended period (over 45–60 minutes).

Steps if dF persists and freezer is warming:

• Check interior temperature: If the freezer is above 20°F and not cooling, unplug the unit.
• Access evaporator area: Remove food and shelves, then the rear interior panel to expose the evaporator coil and defrost components.
• Inspect defrost thermostat: The defrost thermostat (bi-metal) is usually clipped to the evaporator tubing. Check for a bulged or cracked housing.
• Test defrost thermostat: With the thermostat cold (below freezing), disconnect its wires and test for continuity with a multimeter. It should read closed (0 ohms). If open when cold, it is defective.
• Test defrost heater: Disconnect heater leads and measure resistance. A typical GE defrost heater will show a finite resistance (often 20–100 ohms). If open (OL), the heater is bad.
• Replace faulty parts: Install a new GE defrost thermostat and/or GE defrost heater as needed. Clip the thermostat securely to the coil and route wires away from sharp edges.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall the panel, restore power, and monitor. The dF indication should clear once the control exits defrost and cooling resumes.

If dF never appears to clear: The main control board defrost circuit or relay may be stuck and should be evaluated by a technician.