Error code E5 is displayed and the refrigerator may not defrost properly, leading to ice buildup and poor cooling.

Safety first: Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains. The defrost heater operates at mains voltage; do not test it live unless you are a trained professional.

Diagnostic procedure:

• 1. Access the evaporator: Remove freezer drawers and the rear inner panel to expose the evaporator and heater assembly.
• 2. Locate the defrost heater: It is typically a metal or glass-encased element clipped along the bottom or woven through the evaporator coil.
• 3. Visual inspection: Look for burnt spots, broken heater casing, or melted connectors.
• 4. Test heater resistance: Disconnect the heater wires. Measure resistance across the heater terminals. A typical reading is between 50–300 Ω depending on model. Infinite resistance indicates an open heater that must be replaced.
• 5. Check thermal fuse (if present): Some Fagor models include a thermal fuse in series with the heater. Test it for continuity; an open fuse must be replaced with the correct temperature-rated part.
• 6. Inspect wiring to PCB: Trace the heater wiring back to the main control board. Repair any burnt or loose connectors.
• 7. Replace faulty components: Install a new defrost heater and/or thermal fuse as required. Ensure all clips and insulation are reinstalled to prevent overheating of plastic parts.
• 8. Control board check: If the heater and wiring are good but E5 persists, the main control board may not be energizing the heater. Board replacement is recommended to be done by a qualified technician.