GE freezer display shows HI or High Temp and an alarm sounds; interior temperature is warm

Safety: No internal electrical work is required for basic checks, but unplug the freezer before removing interior panels.

Immediate steps:

• Check door closure: Ensure the door is fully closing and the gasket is not obstructed by food packages or ice. Clean gasket surfaces with warm soapy water and dry.
• Silence alarm: Use the alarm reset or mute button on the control panel (if available). This does not fix the cause but stops the beeping.
• Check for recent loading: If you recently added a large quantity of unfrozen food, allow 24 hours for temperature to recover. Keep the door closed as much as possible.
• Verify fan operation: With the unit running, open the door briefly and listen for the evaporator fan behind the rear interior panel. You should hear air movement. If silent while the compressor is running, the fan may have failed.
• Inspect evaporator fan: Unplug the freezer, remove shelves and the rear interior panel, and check the GE evaporator fan motor for ice blockage or broken blades. Clear any ice and spin the blade by hand; it should turn freely.
• Test/replace fan: If the fan is not running when powered and not blocked, replace the evaporator fan motor with a GE-compatible part.
• Monitor temperature: After corrections, allow several hours and verify that the HI alarm clears and temperature drops below 0°F.

Note: If the compressor runs continuously, the fan runs, and the unit still cannot reach set temperature, a sealed system issue (leak, restriction, weak compressor) is likely and requires a professional technician.