Display shows E4 and the unit may not defrost properly or may run continuously.
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.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Disconnect power before accessing the evaporator or control board. Risk of electric shock and sharp edges.
E4 is commonly associated with a defrost sensor or defrost circuit problem.
- Step 1 – Inspect for heavy frost: Remove internal panels to view the evaporator. If it is encased in ice, the defrost system is likely not working.
- Step 2 – Check defrost sensor: Locate the defrost NTC (often clipped to the evaporator tubing). Inspect for damage and secure mounting. Test resistance and replace if out of spec.
- Step 3 – Test defrost heater (advanced): With the unit unplugged, disconnect the heater leads and measure continuity. An open circuit indicates a failed heater that must be replaced with a EuroCave-compatible defrost heater.
- Step 4 – Inspect wiring and connectors: Look for burnt connectors, melted insulation, or loose plugs between heater, sensor, and control board.
- Step 5 – Control board check: If sensor and heater test good, the defrost relay or triac on the main control board may be faulty. This typically requires board replacement.
- Step 6 – Manual defrost: As a temporary measure, fully defrost the unit, then restart and monitor. If E4 returns, proceed with component replacement.
Warning: Do not bypass the defrost safety devices. Improper modifications can cause overheating and fire risk.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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