Atwood Refrigerator Error Code CHECK FLASH + TEMP1-5 FLASH

The CHECK FLASH combined with TEMP1-5 FLASH error code indicates that the Atwood refrigerator's control board has detected a fault in one of the thermistors (numbered 1 through 5 depending on which sensor is affected). A thermistor is a temperature-sensing resistor whose resistance changes predictably with temperature. When the control board reads a resistance value that falls outside the expected range, either because the circuit is completely open (broken wire or disconnected sensor) or shorted (two conductors making unintended contact), it flags this error. The specific TEMP number displayed identifies which thermistor circuit is involved.

When this fault is detected, the Atwood control board does not simply shut down. Instead, it switches to a backup temperature control mode using the temperature setting selected by the user. This means the refrigerator continues to operate, but without the precision feedback the thermistor normally provides. The backup mode is a failsafe, not a long-term solution, so the underlying thermistor fault should be diagnosed and corrected promptly to restore accurate temperature regulation.

The first diagnostic step is to inspect the thermistor connections at connector J10-1 on the control board. Loose, corroded, or damaged pins at this connector are a common source of open-circuit readings. After confirming the connection is secure, measure the thermistor's resistance directly and compare it against the expected value for the current ambient temperature. A properly functioning thermistor will show a resistance that varies smoothly with temperature. An open circuit will read infinite resistance, while a shorted thermistor will read near zero ohms.