Danby refrigerator display shows dF or DF and cooling may pause periodically.

Safety: No immediate hazard; however, unplug the unit before opening panels if you suspect a fault.

Steps to interpret and respond to dF/DF:

• Check manual: On many Danby models, dF simply indicates that the unit is in a normal defrost cycle. Cooling will resume automatically after several minutes.
• Monitor duration: If dF remains on the display for more than 30–60 minutes and the compressor does not restart, there may be a control or sensor issue.
• Power reset: Unplug the refrigerator for 5 minutes, then plug back in. If it immediately returns to dF and never cools, suspect a stuck defrost relay or faulty control board.
• Check defrost sensor: A failed evaporator thermistor can cause the board to mis-time defrost. Test and replace the sensor if needed (see defrost sensor entry).
• Control board replacement: If the unit is stuck in defrost despite good sensors, the main control board may need replacement by a technician.