Kenmore freezer displays E5; unit may not defrost and may show uneven cooling or ice buildup.

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before testing the heater or removing panels. The defrost heater can be sharp and may have exposed terminals.

Steps to address E5:

• 1. Access the evaporator and heater: Remove interior rear panel to expose the evaporator coil. The defrost heater is typically a metal or glass-encased element at the bottom or woven through the coil.
• 2. Visual inspection: Look for broken heater tubes, burn marks, or disconnected wires. Check connectors for signs of overheating.
• 3. Test heater continuity: Disconnect the heater leads and measure resistance with a multimeter. A typical heater will show some resistance (e.g., 20–150 ohms). If it reads open (OL), the heater is bad.
• 4. Replace the heater: If open or visibly damaged, remove mounting clips or screws and install a new Kenmore-compatible defrost heater. Ensure all connections are tight and properly insulated.
• 5. Inspect wiring harness: Follow the heater wires back to the harness and control board, checking for brittle insulation or burnt connectors. Repair or replace damaged sections.
• 6. Reassemble and test: Reinstall the rear panel, restore power, and monitor for proper defrosting over the next few days. E5 should clear once the control detects normal heater operation.

When to call a technician: If the heater tests good but E5 persists, the main control board or defrost relay may be faulty and should be professionally diagnosed.