Refrigerator displays E3 and may not defrost properly; frost accumulates on the rear wall of the freezer or fridge section.

Safety: Unplug the appliance before removing panels or touching wiring. Water from defrosting can create slip and shock hazards; keep towels handy.

Steps to address E3:

• Manual defrost: Empty the freezer, unplug the unit, and leave doors open for several hours to melt heavy ice. Place towels to catch water.
• Access the evaporator: Remove the inner rear panel of the freezer to expose the evaporator coil and defrost components.
• Locate the defrost/evaporator sensor: It is usually clipped directly to the evaporator tubing or mounted on a bracket touching the coil.
• Check placement and condition: Ensure the sensor is firmly attached to the coil and not hanging loose. Inspect for cracked housing or damaged wires.
• Test the sensor: Disconnect the sensor and measure resistance at the current temperature, then again after gently warming it with your hand. The resistance should change smoothly. If it is open, shorted, or erratic, replace it.
• Inspect wiring harness: Follow the harness from the sensor to the cabinet pass-through and to the main PCB. Look for pinched or corroded sections and test continuity.
• Replace the evaporator NTC sensor: Order the correct Gorenje evaporator/defrost sensor. Clip it securely to the coil in the original position and route the wiring as before.
• Reassemble and test: Refit the rear panel, restore power, and monitor operation over 24 hours. Frost buildup should stop and E3 should clear.

If E3 persists: The issue may be with the defrost heater or main control board logic; further diagnosis by a technician is recommended.