What Is the GE Refrigerator F13 Error Code?
The F13 error code on GE refrigerators indicates a Freezer Thermistor 2 fault. This means the control board is receiving an invalid signal from the freezer temperature sensor. If not resolved, this issue can lead to improper cooling, frost buildup, or erratic freezer temperatures.
Causes of the F13 Error Code on GE Refrigerators
- Faulty or damaged freezer thermistor
- Broken or loose wiring connections
- Defective control board
- Sensor out of expected resistance range
Pro Tip: Always check resistance values with a multimeter before replacing components.
How to Fix GE Refrigerator F13 Error Code
Step 1: Test the Freezer Thermistor
Choose one of the following methods to test thermistor resistance values.
Method 1: Thermistor Testing Without Removal
Tools Needed:
- Digital Multimeter
- Thermistor Resistance Chart (see below)
- Ice water (for calibration)
Instructions:
- Unplug the refrigerator to avoid electrical hazards.
- Access the main control board — usually on the back of the fridge.
- Locate the thermistor connector (often labeled J1). Refer to your model’s tech sheet or service manual.
- Set your multimeter to Ohms (Ω) or kiloohms (kΩ).
- Disconnect the thermistor connector from the board.
- Important: Do not insert probes into the connector terminals.
- Touch meter probes to the thermistor wires using the outer part of the terminals.
- Compare your reading to the resistance chart based on current compartment temperature.
- Optional Accuracy Check: Submerge the thermistor in ice water (32°F / 0°C) for 5 minutes, then measure again.
Method 2: Thermistor Testing With Removal
This method involves physically removing the thermistor.
Steps:
- Disconnect power to the appliance.
- Locate the thermistor — it may be clipped to the evaporator coil or mounted inside the compartment.
- Remove the sensor by unclipping or cutting the wire harness.
- Leave enough wire to reconnect if cutting.
- Use a multimeter to measure resistance across the thermistor terminals.
- Test in room temperature and again in ice water.
- Compare results with the appropriate thermistor chart.
GE Refrigerator Thermistor Resistance Chart
Use this chart when testing thermistors to determine if they fall within expected ranges.
| Resistance (kΩ) | Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| 168.8 | -40 | -40 |
| 120.5 | -31 | -35 |
| 88.0 | -22 | -30 |
| 65.0 | -13 | -25 |
| 48.4 | -4 | -20 |
| 36.4 | 5 | -15 |
| 27.6 | 14 | -10 |
| 21.0 | 23 | -5 |
| 16.3 | 32 | 0 |
| 12.7 | 41 | 5 |
| 10.0 | 50 | 10 |
| 7.8 | 59 | 15 |
| 6.2 | 68 | 20 |
| 5.0 | 77 | 25 |
| 4.0 | 86 | 30 |
| 3.2 | 95 | 35 |
| 2.6 | 104 | 40 |
| 2.2 | 113 | 45 |
| 1.8 | 122 | 50 |
| 1.5 | 131 | 55 |
| 1.2 | 140 | 60 |
Additional GE Thermistor Charts
Late-Model GE Refrigerator & Freezer Thermistor Readings
| Resistance (kΩ) | Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| 121.0 | -58 | -50 |
| 6.35 | 32 | 0 |
| 3.88 | 50 | 10 |
| 2.00 | 77 | 25 |
| 1.00 | 109 | 43 |
Ice Box Thermistor Chart
| Resistance (kΩ) | Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| 25.3 | -13 | -25 |
| 6.4 | 32 | 0 |
| 3.9 | 50 | 10 |
| 1.6 | 86 | 30 |
Ice Maker Mold Thermistor Chart
| Resistance (kΩ) | Temperature (°F) | Temperature (°C) |
|---|---|---|
| 205.0 | -40 | -40 |
| 27.7 | 32 | 0 |
| 10.0 | 77 | 25 |
| 3.0 | 140 | 60 |
| 1.67 | 176 | 80 |
Common Questions About GE Refrigerator Thermistors
Q: Can I bypass a faulty thermistor?
A: No. The thermistor sends vital temperature data to the control board. Bypassing it could cause the fridge to run continuously or not cool at all.
Q: What temperature should I test the thermistor at?
A: You can test at room temperature (~70°F/21°C) and also in ice water (32°F/0°C) for accuracy.
Q: My resistance reading doesn’t match the chart—what does that mean?
A: If your reading is significantly off, the thermistor is likely faulty and should be replaced.
I am a master Appliance Repair technician with over 35 years of experience in the field. I am passionate about helping people troubleshoot their appliances and fix common problems. My website, appliancemode.com, provides a wealth of information on troubleshooting common appliance issues and deciphering error codes. This website aims to empower people to tackle appliance repairs themselves and save money on service calls.
