Refrigerators Medium Severity
F1 Appliance Error Code

Fisher & Paykel Refrigerators F1 Error: Fridge thermistor fault

Fisher & Paykel refrigerator error code F1 is a mid-severity fault meaning Refrigerator compartment thermistor fault. Short-term use is acceptable while you arrange service, but cooling may be inconsistent. A 5-minute power-cycle will clear the code if the underlying sensor issue was transient.

By Denis Yuzhaev Lead Appliance Repair Specialist & Technical Writer

~55%

DIY Fixable

From $110

Typical Repair Cost

1–2 hrs

Pro Repair Time

Quick Assessment

Answer to continue safely

Is it safe to keep using?

Maybe. Short-term use is acceptable while you arrange service, but cooling may be inconsistent. If the compartment temperature exceeds 40°F (4°C) for more than 4 hours, move perishables to a cooler or alternate refrigerator.

Can I reset the code?

Yes. A 5-minute power-cycle will clear the code if the underlying sensor issue was transient. If F1 returns immediately after power is restored, the thermistor or wiring requires physical repair.

When to stop immediately?

Stop if you notice: Compartment temperature exceeds 40°F (4°C) for more than 4 hours, Code reappears within minutes of every power-cycle.

Symptoms You May Notice

F1 displayed on panel

The display panel shows F1 continuously or flashes the code at intervals.

Inconsistent cooling

Refrigerator compartment temperature drifts above or below the setpoint because the controller cannot accurately read conditions.

Compressor runs erratically

Without reliable sensor data, the ActiveSmart controller cycles the compressor at irregular intervals.

Possible Causes

1

Failed RC thermistor

The refrigerator compartment thermistor has failed open or short, returning an out-of-range resistance reading.

DIY Possible
2

Loose sensor connector

The wire harness connector between the thermistor and the main PCB has worked loose, breaking the signal path.

DIY Possible
3

Damaged wiring harness

Insulation chafing or a pinched wire has caused an intermittent open circuit in the sensor circuit.

DIY Possible
4

Faulty main control board

The PCB input circuit that reads the thermistor resistance has failed, giving a false fault even when the sensor is good.

Requires Professional

Safe Checks You Can Do

These checks are safe for homeowners. No disassembly required. Do not remove panels or access internal components.
  1. 1

    Power-cycle the refrigerator

    Unplug the unit from the wall socket for 5 minutes, then restore power and observe whether the F1 code clears.

    Transient sensor drop-outs caused by vibration or condensation often clear after a power-cycle.

  2. 2

    Check airflow around the sensor

    Remove items stored directly against the rear interior wall where the thermistor probe is located and ensure vents are unobstructed.

    Blocked airflow can cause the sensor to read extreme temperatures, triggering the code.

  3. 3

    Inspect the sensor connector

    After unplugging, remove the rear interior panel and confirm the thermistor connector is fully seated and free of corrosion.

    Press the connector firmly until you feel a click.

    Tools required
  4. 4

    Test thermistor resistance

    With the refrigerator unplugged, disconnect the thermistor and measure resistance with a multimeter. Fisher & Paykel RC thermistors typically read approximately 10 kΩ at 25°C.

    An open circuit (OL) or very low resistance confirms sensor failure.

    Tools required

When to Call a Professional

Contact a qualified technician if:

  • Thermistor tests faulty and replacement requires dismantling the interior liner
  • Code persists after a confirmed good replacement thermistor is installed (board fault)
  • Multiple temperature-related codes appearing simultaneously

Need Professional Help?

Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.

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2 1 5 DOOR ICE C1 FAN FF DEF F3 F2