Error code Er dS is displayed. The unit may short-cycle the defrost process or show inconsistent cooling and frost patterns.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before testing sensors or removing panels.

Procedure:

• 1. Access the evaporator area: Remove the interior rear panel in the freezer or fresh food section (depending on the model) to expose the evaporator and attached sensors.
• 2. Locate the defrost thermistor: It is usually a small plastic-encased sensor clipped to the evaporator tubing with two wires leading to a connector.
• 3. Perform a physical inspection: Check for broken wires, a cracked sensor housing, or a loose clip that prevents good contact with the tubing.
• 4. Test the resistance: Disconnect the thermistor from the harness. Measure the resistance with a multimeter at a known temperature (e.g., room temperature ~25°C). Typical NTC thermistors read around 5k–10k ohms at room temp (check service data for your model). A reading of 0 ohms (short) or OL (open) indicates failure.
• 5. Test at a cold temperature: Place the sensor tip in a cup of ice water for several minutes and recheck the resistance. It should increase significantly compared to room temperature. No change suggests a bad sensor.
• 6. Replace the thermistor: If readings are out of spec, install a new OEM defrost thermistor. Clip it firmly to the same location on the evaporator tubing and route wires away from sharp edges.
• 7. If the thermistor tests as good: The main control board may be misreading the sensor. Inspect and, if necessary, replace the board.