Display shows E5 and the unit may not defrost properly, leading to ice buildup and poor cooling.

Safety: Unplug the refrigerator. The defrost circuit is high voltage; do not test live unless you are trained and equipped.

• 1. Access evaporator and heater: Remove freezer contents and the rear interior panel to expose the evaporator and defrost heater (often a metal or glass-encased element at the bottom or woven through the coil).
• 2. Test heater continuity: Disconnect heater leads. Use a multimeter on the Ω setting. A typical heater will show low resistance (10–100Ω). OL indicates an open heater that must be replaced.
• 3. Check defrost thermostat/fuse: Locate the small round thermostat or inline thermal fuse clipped to the evaporator. Test for continuity when cold (it should be closed). Replace if open when cold.
• 4. Inspect wiring: Look for burnt connectors or brittle wires. Repair with high-temperature-rated wire and proper connectors.
• 5. If heater and thermostat are good: The issue may be the main control board not sending power to the heater. This requires board diagnosis or replacement.
• 6. Replace failed parts: Install a new defrost heater or defrost thermostat as needed. Ensure all connections are tight and insulated.
• 7. Fully defrost: Melt all existing ice before reassembly to prevent immediate reoccurrence.