Refrigerator not cooling properly, display shows E01 or E1

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before removing any panels. Use insulated tools and avoid damaging refrigerant lines.

Step-by-step checks:

• Verify temperature settings: Ensure the fridge is set to 37–40°F (3–4°C) and freezer to 0°F (-18°C). Reset to factory defaults if unsure.
• Check door seals: Inspect gaskets for gaps, tears, or debris. Clean with warm soapy water and ensure doors close fully without obstruction.
• Clean condenser coils: Pull the unit away from the wall. Remove the lower rear access panel if present. Use a coil brush and vacuum to remove dust from the condenser coils. Do not bend the fins.
• Inspect condenser fan: With the rear panel off, plug the unit back in briefly and check if the condenser fan runs when the compressor is on. If the fan is not spinning or is noisy, the motor may be failing and should be replaced.
• Check airflow inside: Make sure vents inside the fridge and freezer are not blocked by food items. Rearrange contents to allow free airflow.
• Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug back in to clear transient control errors. If E01 returns quickly, a performance or sensor fault is likely.

When to call a technician: If coils are clean, fans run, and temperatures remain high, the issue may be low refrigerant or a failing compressor, which requires an EPA-certified technician.