Diagnosis Guide
Tools Needed:
- Multimeter
- Screwdrivers (flat and Phillips)
- Nut drivers set
- Pliers (needle nose and regular)
- Refrigerant manifold gauge set
- Leak detector
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Initial Assessment: Check if refrigerator is plugged in and receiving power. Listen for compressor operation.
- Temperature Check: Use thermometer to verify actual temperatures in both refrigerator and freezer compartments.
- Visual Inspection: Look for frost buildup, water leaks, or visible damage to components.
- Component Testing: Test compressor, evaporator fan, condenser fan, and defrost system components.
- Electrical Testing: Check voltage at various points, test relays, overload protectors, and control boards.
- Refrigerant System Check: Check refrigerant pressure and look for leaks if system appears undercharged.
- Final Verification: After repairs, monitor temperatures for 24 hours to ensure proper operation.
Specifications
| Common Series | GTS, GTE, GTH, Profile, Café, Monogram |
| Type | French Door, Side-by-Side, Top Freezer, Bottom Freezer |
| Capacity Range | 18 - 30 cubic feet |
| Refrigerant Type | R-134a or R-600a (Isobutane) |
| Compressor Type | Variable Speed Inverter or Standard PSC |
| Defrost System | Adaptive Defrost or Time Initiated/Temperature Terminated |
| Energy Rating | ENERGY STAR® Certified Models Available |
| Voltage Requirements | 120V, 60Hz, 15A Dedicated Circuit |
| Dimensions (Typical) | 66-70" H x 32-36" W x 30-34" D |
| Water Filter Type | RPWFE, MWF, XWFE (Model Dependent) |
| Ice Maker Types | In-Freezer, In-Door, Craft Ice® |
Warranty Information
- Full Warranty: 1 year parts and labor
- Sealed System Warranty: 5 years (compressor, condenser, evaporator)
- Additional Coverage: Optional extended warranty available
For warranty service, contact GE Appliances at 1-800-432-2737 or visit GEAppliances.com
Key Components
Inverter Compressor
Variable speed compressor that adjusts cooling output based on demand, improving energy efficiency and maintaining more consistent temperatures.
Adaptive Defrost System
Intelligent defrost system that monitors usage patterns and only defrosts when needed, reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency.
Triple Evaporator System
Separate evaporators for refrigerator, freezer, and convertible compartments allow independent temperature control and humidity management.
SmartHQ Technology
Wi-Fi enabled for remote monitoring, temperature adjustment, and filter status alerts through smartphone app.
Water Filtration System
Advanced filtration with electronic monitoring that tracks filter life and alerts when replacement is needed.
Door Alarm System
Audible and visual alerts when doors are left open, helping to prevent energy waste and food spoilage.
Cooling System Components Explained
Compressor
Pumps refrigerant through the system. Common failures include electrical issues and mechanical failure.
Condenser Coils
Release heat from refrigerant. Require regular cleaning to maintain efficiency.
Evaporator Coils
Absorb heat from refrigerator interior. Frost buildup indicates defrost system issues.
Expansion Device
Controls refrigerant flow into evaporator. Can be capillary tube or TXV type.
Evaporator Fan
Circulates air over evaporator coils. Failure causes inadequate cooling.
Condenser Fan
Cools condenser coils. Failure leads to high pressure and compressor overload.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator not cooling | Compressor failure, defrost system issue, low refrigerant | Test compressor, check defrost components, verify refrigerant charge |
| Freezer too cold, refrigerator warm | Damper door issue, air flow obstruction, control board failure | Check damper operation, clear air passages, test control board |
| Excessive frost in freezer | Defrost heater failure, defrost thermostat, timer or control issue | Test defrost components, check defrost cycle operation |
| Water leaking on floor | Clogged drain tube, frozen drain line, water filter leak | Clear drain system, thaw drain line, check filter connections |
| Ice maker not working | Water supply issue, frozen fill tube, faulty ice maker assembly | Check water supply, thaw fill tube, test ice maker components |
| Loud noises during operation | Fan obstruction, compressor issues, loose components | Check fans, inspect compressor mounts, tighten components |
Error Codes
- FF / FF: Freezer sensor failure - Replace freezer temperature sensor
- RR / RR: Refrigerator sensor failure - Replace refrigerator temperature sensor
- PF / PF: Power failure - Reset by unplugging for 5 minutes
- dL / dL: Door left open - Check door alignment and switches
- SF / SF: Side by side function error - Check damper and fan operation
- CF / CF: Communication failure - Check wiring and control board connections
Manual Downloads
Current Model Manuals
GTH22KSLSS
22 cu. ft. Top Freezer Refrigerator
PFE28KYNFS
28 cu. ft. French Door Refrigerator
GSE25GSHSS
25 cu. ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator
GWE19JGLWW
19 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Popular Previous Models
GTS22KBPBB
22 cu. ft. Top Freezer (2018-2020)
PSS28MSHSS
28 cu. ft. French Door (2017-2019)
GSE25GSHCC
25 cu. ft. Side-by-Side (2016-2018)
GWE19JGLDS
19 cu. ft. Bottom Freezer (2015-2017)