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Error code reference

Amana Refrigerator Error Code High Temp Alarm

Freezer temperature exceeded 15°F for 2 hours or refrigerator temperature exceeded 60°F for 2 hours; High…

Amana codesAmana refrigerator codes

Freezer temperature exceeded 15°F for 2 hours or refrigerator temperature exceeded 60°F for 2 hours; High Temp indicator light illuminates and affected compartment indicator flashes with audio alarm.

First step from the service manual

Press ALARM OFF key to discontinue alarm; check thermistors, sealed system, and airflow.

The complete diagnostic procedure includes additional test steps, resistance specifications, wiring diagram references, and component test points.

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What High Temp Alarm means on a Amana refrigerator

The High Temp Alarm on an Amana refrigerator activates when the freezer compartment temperature rises above 15°F for a sustained period of 2 hours, or when the fresh food compartment temperature climbs above 60°F for 2 hours. When either threshold is breached, the control board triggers a multi-part alert: the High Temp indicator light illuminates, the indicator light for the affected compartment flashes, and an audible alarm sounds. This alarm is a protective warning system designed to alert users before food safety becomes a critical issue.

The three primary systems to evaluate after silencing the alarm are the thermistors, the sealed refrigeration system, and internal airflow. Thermistors are temperature-sensing resistors that report compartment temperatures to the control board. If a thermistor has drifted out of calibration or failed, it may report inaccurate temperatures or trigger false alarms. The sealed system includes the compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant circuit. A refrigerant leak or compressor failure will result in genuine temperature rise across one or both compartments. Airflow problems, such as a failed evaporator fan motor or blocked vents, prevent cold air from circulating properly and can cause localized or widespread temperature elevation.

Before assuming a component failure, consider external factors that can trigger a legitimate high-temperature event. A door left ajar, a heavy load of warm groceries, or a recent power outage can all cause temporary temperature rises that recover on their own. Pressing the ALARM OFF key silences the audible alert and allows the system to resume normal operation. If temperatures normalize afterward, no repair may be needed. If the alarm returns repeatedly without an obvious external cause, further diagnostic work on the thermistors, sealed system, and airflow components is warranted.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of High Temp Alarm

  1. 01

    Door Left Open or Poor Door Seal

    Wiring / connection

    A door that was not fully closed or a worn gasket allows warm air to enter continuously, raising compartment temperatures over the 2-hour threshold. Inspect the door gasket for tears, warping, or gaps and confirm the door closes and latches fully.

  2. 02

    Failed Evaporator Fan Motor

    Part replacement

    The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the evaporator coils into the compartments. If the motor stops running, temperatures will rise even if the compressor is operating normally. Listen for fan operation when the doors are closed and check for airflow at the interior vents.

  3. 03

    Faulty Thermistor

    Part replacement

    A thermistor that has failed or drifted out of range will send incorrect temperature readings to the control board, potentially triggering a false alarm or masking a real cooling problem. Thermistors can be tested with a multimeter to verify their resistance matches expected values at a known temperature.

  4. 04

    Sealed System Issue or Refrigerant Loss

    Part replacement

    A refrigerant leak or compressor failure will prevent the unit from reaching or maintaining target temperatures, resulting in genuine high-temp conditions in both compartments. Signs include the compressor running constantly without adequate cooling or the compressor not starting at all.

  5. 05

    Frost-Blocked Evaporator Coils

    Part replacement

    If the defrost system is not functioning correctly, ice can build up on the evaporator coils and block airflow entirely, causing temperatures to rise in both compartments. Inspecting the evaporator coils for excessive frost buildup after removing the freezer back panel will confirm this condition.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about High Temp Alarm

What does High Temp Alarm mean on a Amana refrigerator?
The High Temp Alarm means the freezer exceeded 15°F for 2 hours or the fresh food compartment exceeded 60°F for 2 hours. The control system responds by illuminating the High Temp indicator, flashing the affected compartment indicator, and sounding an audible alarm. It is designed to alert you to a cooling problem before food spoilage becomes severe. Pressing the ALARM OFF key silences the alarm while you investigate the cause.
How do I fix the High Temp Alarm on my Amana refrigerator?
Start by pressing the ALARM OFF key to silence the alarm and then check for simple causes such as a door left open or a heavy load of warm food recently placed inside. If temperatures do not recover, inspect the evaporator fan for operation, check that vents are not blocked, and examine the door gaskets for damage. Persistent alarms after these checks point toward a thermistor failure, a defrost system problem, or a sealed system issue that may require professional diagnosis.
Will resetting the alarm clear the High Temp Alarm permanently?
Pressing ALARM OFF silences the audible alert and clears the immediate alarm notification, but it does not resolve whatever caused the temperature rise. If the underlying problem is still present, the alarm will return once the compartment temperature again exceeds the threshold for 2 hours. A permanent resolution requires identifying and correcting the root cause, whether that is a component failure, airflow blockage, or door sealing issue.
Is my food safe after the High Temp Alarm goes off?
Food safety depends on how high temperatures climbed and for how long. The alarm triggers at 15°F in the freezer or 60°F in the fresh food compartment after 2 hours at those levels. Partially thawed freezer items that still contain ice crystals are generally considered safe to refreeze or use promptly. Refrigerated items that have been above 40°F for more than 2 hours, especially proteins and dairy, should be evaluated carefully using USDA food safety guidelines.
How much does it cost to repair a High Temp Alarm issue on an Amana refrigerator?
Repair costs vary widely depending on the root cause. Replacing a thermistor is typically a lower-cost repair, often in the range of $75 to $200 including parts and labor. An evaporator fan motor replacement generally falls in the $100 to $300 range. Sealed system repairs involving refrigerant or compressor work are the most expensive, commonly ranging from $300 to $600 or more, and may make replacement of an older unit worth considering.

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