RCA countertop ice maker beeps and shows E1 on the display; unit will not start ice-making cycle.

Safety first: Unplug the ice maker before removing any panels. Do not work on the unit while it is connected to power.

• Step 1 – Power reset: Unplug the RCA ice maker for 10 minutes, then plug it back in and try again. Sometimes E1 is a temporary sensor reading error.
• Step 2 – Check installation environment: Ensure the unit is in a room between 50°F and 90°F (10–32°C), away from direct sunlight, ovens, or heating vents. Extreme temperatures can trigger E1.
• Step 3 – Access the sensor: Remove the rear or side cover (varies by RCA model) to locate the small thermistor clipped to the evaporator area or cabinet wall. It usually has two thin wires going to the control board.
• Step 4 – Inspect wiring and connector: Check for loose plugs, corrosion, or broken wires between the thermistor and the main PCB. Reseat the connector firmly.
• Step 5 – Test the thermistor (if you have a meter): At room temperature, the thermistor should show a stable resistance (often 5–20 kΩ depending on model). If it reads open (OL) or short (0 Ω), it is defective and must be replaced.
• Step 6 – Replace faulty parts: If the thermistor is bad, replace it with an OEM RCA ambient temperature sensor/thermistor. If the sensor tests good but E1 persists, the main control board may be defective and should be replaced or inspected by a technician.