Digital RCA upright freezer beeps and displays E1; temperature may not match setpoint.

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before removing any panels. Use insulated tools and avoid working on a wet floor.

Steps to check the temperature sensor:

• 1. Power reset: Unplug the freezer for 5 minutes, then plug it back in. If E1 clears and does not return, it may have been a control glitch.
• 2. Locate the thermistor: On most RCA uprights, the cabinet thermistor is a small plastic probe mounted on the rear interior wall or behind a small cover near the evaporator cover. Remove the interior panel if needed.
• 3. Inspect wiring: Check the thermistor wires from the sensor to the main control board (usually behind the rear lower exterior panel or in the control housing at the top). Look for pinched, cut, or chewed wires and loose connectors. Reseat the plug firmly.
• 4. Test the thermistor: With the unit unplugged, disconnect the thermistor from the harness. Measure resistance with a multimeter. At around 32°F (0°C), most RCA NTC thermistors read roughly 8–12 kΩ (check service sheet if available). If it reads open (OL) or 0 Ω, the sensor is bad.
• 5. Replace if faulty: If readings are out of range, replace the cabinet temperature sensor (thermistor) with an RCA-compatible part. Route the new sensor along the original path and secure it away from moving parts or sharp edges.
• 6. Reassemble and test: Reinstall panels, restore power, and confirm that the E1 code is cleared and the freezer begins cooling normally.

When to call a technician: If the thermistor tests good but E1 persists, the main control board may be defective and should be diagnosed by a professional.