GE Profile Refrigerator Temperature Control Problems & Solutions

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General Electric (GE) is a leading manufacturer of home appliances. The temperature of GE refrigerators and freezers is controlled by the user via a touchscreen display on many of these models, and this setting is maintained by the condenser. Internal problems can make it harder for your refrigerator to maintain the desired temperature.

GE profile refrigerator temperature control problems can be solved by detecting the responsible part and replacing it. You may have to install a new temperature control board, thermostat, or other malfunctioning components.

In this article, we’ll talk in-depth about the solution to this issue.

GE Profile Refrigerator Temperature Control Problems

Over time, your GE refrigerator may show many problems regarding the temperature control system. The refrigerator has two parts controlling the temperature, the hardware, and the control system.

One establishes the desired temperature and another one commands and maintains it. Problems can be associated with both these parts.

GE Profile Refrigerator Temperature Control Problems Solution

GE refrigerator Temperature Fluctuating

The temperature of your GE refrigerator can fluctuate for many reasons. It can go up and down frequently for the following reasons:

  • The start relay isn’t working properly.
  • Damaged thermostat
  • Temperature controls are not functioning.
  • The vents are blocked.
  • Frequent use of the refrigerator
  • Loose door seal

Fixing A Malfunctioning Start Relay In A GE Refrigerator

The compressor, which helps to cool the fridge, is controlled by the start relay. As a result, if there is any failure in the start relay, the refrigerator will not cool adequately. The temperature will not settle till the start relay is repaired.

Check the metallic portion with a voltmeter before installing a new starter relay. If you get a negative result on the test, follow these instructions to replace it:

  • Remove the plug from the refrigerator.
  • Take out the access panel with the help of a screwdriver.
  • Remove the container that accommodates the start relay. You will find it by the compressor.
  • Turn off the overload.
  • Disconnect the wires of the relay which securely attach it to the condenser. 
  • Attach the cables to the newly installed starter relay by hand.
  • Attach the overload, and then replace it.
  • Place the overload and start relays in the appropriate positions.
  • Put them into the overload box.

Fixing A Damaged Thermostat

A thermostat in the fridge, like one in our home, is primarily responsible for maintaining a consistent temperature. When this component fails, the temperature starts to fluctuate due to a malfunction in the system designed for cooling.

A faulty thermostat should be repaired by an expert. However, prior to calling a repairman, you must check your thermostat to make sure it’s the cause of your issues. 

To diagnose the malfunction of your thermostat, increase the internal temperature of the fridge from the lowest to the highest. A broken thermostat will fail to turn on after this quick change.

Clear Out The Clogs In The Vents

A refrigerator has two essential types of vents in the interior. One of them is designed to bring cold refrigerants from the condenser coils, and the other one helps with the passage of hot air. Both these vents are important for stabilizing the internal temperature by sustaining clear ventilation of cold and hot air.

If you suspect any blockage in the vents, you have to clear them. Clearing the passage of the vents tends to be one of the easiest tasks. Open your refrigerator door and move the food items that are blocking the vents.

Rearrange them in a manner that air can pass freely through. You can also check the inside of the vents to see if anything is blocking the air pathway.

Fixing The Door To Solve Temperature Control Problems

The doors and other gateways of the refrigerator are tightly sealed so that the cold air cannot leave the system and hot air cannot enter into it. Whenever any of these seals get loosened up, it allows the exchange of temperature between these two environments.

Also, when you open the door of a fridge, an exchange of air takes place, causing a fluctuation in the temperature, which is soon detected and compensated for by the cooling system. But the frequent opening of the door will lead to bigger problems.

If you detect any broken seals or loose doors, you need to replace the old products. GE supplies its customers with the accessories for solid replacements. Make sure to go through the setup guide to do it right.

Can’t Set The Temperature On My GE Profile Refrigerator Problem Solution

If you’re having difficulties adjusting your refrigerator’s temperature, there could be a problem inside the circuit controlling the temperatures. The temperature of most current GE refrigerators is controlled using a touchscreen thermal control.

If the thermal control circuit fails, the consumer will be unable to select their desired temperature, even by pressing the right buttons.

  • You can easily change the temperature control board by following these steps:
  • To replace a faulty temperature control board, follow these steps:
  • Unplug the wall-mounted power supply.
  • Remove the touchscreen pad from the fridge’s face. Peel the plastic cover off.
  • Disconnect the cables that link the system with the temperature controls.
  • In the same manner, connect the cables to the newly bought control board. Make sure that the links are a perfect fit.
  • Place the panel in its final position.
  • Start the refrigerator and the new control system will start working. 

GE Refrigerator Temperature Light Blinking Problem

If you notice the temperature light of your GE refrigerator is continuously blinking, that indicates the temperature settings are wrong. The standard temperature settings for GE refrigerators are 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

After setting the temperature, the refrigerator might require up to 24 hours to stabilize the temperature. So you should expect the lights to stop flashing within the next 24 hours.

If it doesn’t help, then the system might need a reset. Disconnect the power supply of your unit and plug it in after a minute or so. If the situation doesn’t improve, don’t hesitate to call a professional repairman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Where are the temperature controls on a GE refrigerator?

The location of the temperature controls on a GE refrigerator depends on the type of refrigerator. In some models, the temperature control is located in the back of the fridge section, or on the ceiling of the fridge.

In the French door GE refrigerators, it’s located at the brink of the door. Sometimes, it can also be found in the control panel or the water dispenser.

Q. How do I set the temperature on my GE Profile Side-by-Side refrigerator?

In many GE side-by-side refrigerators, the internal temperature is revealed on the digital display over the water dispenser. This display has made it quite easier to set the temperature. The default temperature for the fridge section is 37 degrees Fahrenheit, and 0 degrees for the freezer.

You can change the temperature of the fridge to range from 34 to 44 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer from -6 degrees Fahrenheit to +6. You can easily change it on the digital display.

Q. How do you reset the temperature on a GE Profile refrigerator?

GE Profile refrigerators come with a mode called self-diagnostic. To reset the temperature:

  • Go to the self-diagnostic mode by clicking on any temperature button in the control panel.
  • After the temperatures are displayed, click on “5” in the settings and press on the four buttons of adjustment, and hold them for three seconds.
  • This will drive the refrigerator into self-diagnostic mode. “0” will pop up on the display.
  • Press and hold 1 and 5 together to reset the temperatures.

Q. Why does my GE refrigerator’s temperature keep changing?

There are many reasons that might lead to temperature fluctuations in your GE refrigerator. They are:

  • Opening the doors too frequently
  • Wrong settings in the temperature control panel
  • The vents are blocked.
  • Dirty condenser coils
  • Broken thermostat
  • The door seals are broken.

Q. Does the fridge temperature remain constant or varies?

No, the temperature of a fridge doesn’t remain constant. It keeps fluctuating, but within a range that doesn’t affect the food. The food kept close to the coils will get colder faster.

And the ones kept on the lowest shelves will take longer because the hot gases from the vents pass below them.

Conclusion

GE profile refrigerator temperature control problems can be a big headache for any household. But like other electronic products, these refrigerators may get damaged. Temperature control problems are more common than any other problems in these appliances.

A temperature control system is an essential part of a refrigerator. It keeps the interior temperature of the fridge close to constant, making sure your stored food products remain fresh.

Any problem with the temperature control system will cause the temperatures to fluctuate and ruin the quality of your food. You can easily solve these problems by following the methods mentioned in this article.

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2 responses to “GE Profile Refrigerator Temperature Control Problems & Solutions”

  1. Michelle Nickerson Avatar
    Michelle Nickerson

    I didn’t exactly see the solution to my issue, so I’m writing instead. I have an older GE Profile refrigerator Model PWD22SISR SS. I noticed my favorite Coconut milk was not as cold as I like it. When I looked at the digital temp reading, it said 51. I hit the temp control button and turned it to 37, but within seconds, it jumps back to 51 degrees. Same with Freezer. Set at 0 and it reads 11 degrees. My stuff is still cold and freezer is still freezing, but I just ordered a new dishwasher, and wondering if I should be replacing my refrigerator too at the same time, since they are offering a rebate if I purchase more than one appliance. This fridge is about 18 years old now, and although I have no desire to spend more money right now, I also don’t want to be caught off guard with a fridge that’s ready to quit on me when I least expect it. I’m going to get a thermometer to gauge the actual temperature, but in the meantime, is there something I should be doing to reset this temp to stay on 37 degrees? Please email me a response, along with post. Thank you.

    1. Roswell Haley Avatar
      Roswell Haley

      Hi Michelle,

      Thanks for your comment. It sounds like your refrigerator might be having some issues. Here are a few steps you can try:

      Check the Condenser Coils: Dust and dirt can cause the fridge to overheat. Clean the coils if they’re dirty.
      Reset the Refrigerator: Unplug it for about 10 minutes, then plug it back in and set the temperature again.
      Test with a Thermometer: It’s good that you’re getting a thermometer. Check the actual temperature inside.
      If these steps don’t help, it might be a sign that your fridge is wearing out, especially since it’s 18 years old. Considering the rebate, it could be a good time to replace it along with your dishwasher.

      I hope this helps! Feel free to email me if you have more questions.

      Best of Luck!

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