tC
GE Monogram Temperature Sensor (Thermistor) Fault

Display shows tC or TC; temperatures may be inaccurate or fluctuating; unit may run longer than normal.

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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

Fresh food thermistor failure, Freezer thermistor failure, Loose thermistor connection at control board, Control board temperature circuit fault

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before removing interior panels or accessing the control board. Use caution when working around sharp metal edges.

Step 1 – Confirm temperature readings:

  • Place thermometers in both the fresh food and freezer compartments.
  • Compare actual temperatures to the setpoints on the display.
  • Large discrepancies suggest sensor or control issues.

Step 2 – Locate and inspect thermistors:

  • Fresh food thermistor: typically behind a small plastic cover on the rear or side wall of the refrigerator section.
  • Freezer thermistor: often clipped to the evaporator or behind a cover in the freezer.
  • Check for broken clips, damaged wires, or moisture intrusion.

Step 3 – Test thermistors:

  • Disconnect the thermistor from its harness.
  • Measure resistance at a known temperature (e.g., room temperature and ice water) and compare to GE specifications.
  • Replace any thermistor with readings significantly out of range.

Step 4 – Check control board connections:

  • Access the main control board compartment (rear or top of the unit).
  • Ensure all sensor connectors are fully seated and free of corrosion.

Step 5 – Replace control board if needed:

  • If all thermistors test correctly and wiring is intact, the main control board may be misinterpreting sensor data.
  • Replace the main control board with a GE-approved part.

When to call a technician: If you are not comfortable with resistance testing or board replacement, schedule professional service.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Fresh Food Thermistor
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