Summit freezer shows E8 and may not maintain set temperature; compressor operation seems abnormal.
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the freezer before accessing the rear service panel or compressor area. High voltage is present when energized.
Steps to troubleshoot E8:
- Access rear compartment: Move the freezer away from the wall and remove the rear lower access panel to expose the compressor and control board (if located there).
- Inspect compressor wiring: Check that all wires to the compressor, start device, and overload are firmly connected and not burnt or melted.
- Listen for relay clicking (after restoring power briefly): Plug in the freezer and listen for the control relay clicking on and off rapidly. Then unplug again. Rapid clicking can indicate a failing relay or compressor.
- Check the control board: Look for burnt spots or damaged components near the compressor relay on the main PCB. If present, the board should be replaced.
- Test compressor windings (advanced): With power disconnected and start device removed, measure resistance between compressor terminals. Extremely low or shorted readings indicate a failing compressor.
- Replace main control board or relay module: If the compressor tests normal but the relay is burnt or the board is damaged, install a Summit-compatible control board or relay module.
- Reassemble and test: Reinstall the rear panel, restore power, and monitor compressor operation and temperature. The E8 code should clear if the fault is resolved.
Important: If compressor windings are shorted or the compressor overheats and trips repeatedly, a sealed system repair is required and should be performed by a licensed refrigeration technician.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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