E3
KitchenAid Defrost Thermistor or Defrost Sensor Fault

Diagnostics show E3; refrigerator may run too long or not defrost properly.

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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

Open or shorted defrost thermistor on evaporator, Broken sensor clip or poor contact with evaporator, Damaged wiring to sensor, Failed main control board defrost circuit

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before removing the freezer rear panel. Beware of sharp fins on the evaporator coil.

Steps to resolve:

  • Access the evaporator: Remove freezer drawers and the rear interior panel to expose the evaporator coil.
  • Locate the defrost sensor: It is usually clipped to the top or side of the evaporator tubing with two wires leading to it.
  • Check attachment: Ensure the sensor is firmly clipped to the tubing; a loose sensor can misread temperature.
  • Inspect wiring: Look for brittle, cracked, or iced-over wires. Gently clear ice with warm air (hair dryer on low, kept at a distance) if needed—do not chip ice with tools.

If E3 persists, the defrost thermistor should be replaced. If a new sensor does not correct the fault, the main control board may not be initiating defrost correctly and should be checked by a technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Defrost Thermistor
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