GE Café
Overheating Electrical Component
Refrigerator has a chemical or burning plastic smell.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Overheating main control board, Shorted wiring harness, Failing fan motor, Debris on defrost heater
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Immediately unplug the refrigerator if you smell burning or see smoke.
A burning smell indicates a potential fire hazard.
- Inspect rear components: With power disconnected, remove the rear panel and inspect the main control board and wiring for burn marks.
- Check fan motors: Smell near the condenser and evaporator fans for signs of overheating motors.
- Inspect defrost area: Remove the freezer rear panel and check for melted plastic near the defrost heater.
- Do not operate: Do not continue using the refrigerator until the source is identified and repaired.
- Professional service: Contact a qualified technician to replace any burnt components and inspect for safety.
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Repair Difficulty
Professional Required
5/5
Required Part
Main Control Board
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