GE freezer shows E6 and may not cool or may shut down unexpectedly

Safety warning: Always disconnect power before accessing the control board. Avoid touching board components with bare hands to reduce static damage.

Steps to address E6:

• Power reset: Unplug the freezer for at least 10 minutes to fully discharge the control. Plug back in and observe if E6 reappears.
• Check power supply: Verify the outlet provides a stable 120V AC using a multimeter. Avoid using extension cords or power strips.
• Access the main control board: On many GE freezers, the main board is located behind a rear exterior panel or in a control box on the back. Remove screws and carefully open the cover.
• Inspect the board: Look for burnt components, bulging capacitors, or signs of arcing. Check that all harness connectors are fully seated and not damaged.
• Check for shorts: Inspect wiring leading to the compressor, fans, and heaters for obvious shorts to ground that could be overloading the board.
• Replace if defective: If there is visible damage or E6 persists after checks, replace the GE main control board with the exact part number specified for your model. Transfer any jumpers or settings as indicated in the installation instructions.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall the control cover, restore power, and monitor operation. Confirm that the E6 code is cleared and the compressor and fans cycle normally.

Note: Control board replacement involves handling live circuits if miswired. If you are not comfortable with electrical work, contact a qualified technician.