E4
Arctic King Defrost Sensor or Defrost Circuit Failure

Display shows E4 and the unit may not defrost properly, leading to ice buildup on the evaporator.

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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

Failed defrost sensor (NTC on evaporator), Open defrost heater circuit, Faulty defrost relay on main control board

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety warning: Always disconnect power before working inside the cabinet or near the evaporator and heater wiring.

Steps to address E4:

  • Inspect for heavy frost: Remove interior shelves and the rear panel to check the evaporator. If it is encased in ice, the defrost system is likely not working.
  • Manually defrost: With the unit unplugged, allow the ice to melt naturally or use a hair dryer on low heat, keeping it at a safe distance to avoid melting plastic. Do not use sharp tools to chip ice.
  • Locate the defrost sensor: It is usually clipped to the evaporator tubing near the top or middle. Inspect for damage or dislodging.
  • Test the defrost sensor: Disconnect the sensor and measure resistance at a known temperature (e.g., room temperature). Compare to NTC specs. If open or shorted, replace with an Arctic King defrost/evaporator sensor.
  • Check defrost heater (if equipped): With the unit unplugged, measure continuity across the defrost heater terminals. No continuity indicates a failed heater that must be replaced.
  • Inspect wiring and board: Check connectors from sensor and heater to the main PCB for burning, corrosion, or loose pins.
  • Reassemble and test: After replacing any faulty parts, reassemble the interior, restore power, and monitor for normal frost pattern and absence of E4.

Note: If all components test good, the main control board defrost circuit may be defective and require replacement.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Defrost Sensor
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