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Error code reference

Fisher & Paykel Refrigerator Error Code 10

Evaporator outlet sensor hot

Fisher & Paykel codesFisher & Paykel refrigerator codes

Evaporator outlet sensor hot - faulty evaporator outlet temperature sensor with resistance out of normal range (resistance less than 660 Ohms).

First step from the service manual

Check the resistance of the evaporator outlet temperature sensor. If faulty, replace.

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

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What 10 means on a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator

Error code 10 on a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator indicates that the evaporator outlet temperature sensor is reading a resistance value below 660 Ohms, which falls outside the acceptable operating range. The evaporator outlet sensor is a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor positioned at the exit point of the evaporator coil. Its job is to report the temperature of the refrigerant or air leaving the evaporator, allowing the control board to monitor cooling performance and manage defrost cycles accurately.

When the sensor resistance drops below 660 Ohms, the control board interprets this as an abnormally high temperature reading at the evaporator outlet, triggering the fault code. This condition can result from a failed thermistor that has internally short-circuited, damaged wiring in the sensor harness, or a poor connection at the sensor plug or board connector. Because NTC thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature rises, a reading below 660 Ohms would suggest either an extremely high temperature or a sensor that has failed in a shorted state.

Diagnosing this fault requires measuring the resistance of the evaporator outlet sensor directly with a multimeter. If the measured resistance is below 660 Ohms under normal refrigerator operating temperatures, the sensor is confirmed faulty. The wiring harness between the sensor and the control board should also be inspected for shorts, chafing, or damaged insulation before replacing the sensor. If resistance checks confirm a defective sensor, replacement is the correct repair.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 10

  1. 01

    Failed evaporator outlet sensor (internal short)

    Part replacement

    The NTC thermistor has degraded internally and is producing a resistance reading below 660 Ohms, indicating a short-circuit failure within the sensor itself. This is the most common cause and is confirmed by measuring the sensor resistance directly with a multimeter.

  2. 02

    Damaged or shorted sensor wiring harness

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring between the evaporator outlet sensor and the control board may have chafed against a sharp edge, been pinched, or sustained moisture damage, causing a short that pulls the resistance reading below the 660 Ohm threshold. Inspect the full length of the harness for visible damage or insulation wear.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded connector at the sensor plug

    Wiring / connection

    A poor connection at the sensor plug or the control board connector can cause erratic or out-of-range resistance readings. Check both connector ends for corrosion, bent terminals, or incomplete seating.

  4. 04

    Moisture or ice contamination at the sensor

    Wiring / connection

    Ice buildup or moisture ingress around the sensor body or connector can create unintended electrical paths that lower the measured resistance below the acceptable range. A manual defrost cycle followed by drying the sensor area may be needed before retesting.

  5. 05

    Faulty control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring check out within specification, a faulty control board input circuit could be misreading a normal sensor signal as out of range. This is the least likely cause and should only be considered after all other components have been ruled out.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 10

What does 10 mean on a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator?
Error code 10 means the evaporator outlet temperature sensor is reading a resistance below 660 Ohms, which is outside the normal operating range. The control board flags this as a faulty sensor condition because the reading suggests an abnormally high temperature or a sensor that has failed in a shorted state. The evaporator outlet sensor is a thermistor that monitors the temperature at the exit of the evaporator coil, and accurate readings from it are essential for proper cooling and defrost control.
Can I fix error code 10 on my Fisher & Paykel refrigerator myself?
If you are comfortable using a multimeter, you can test the resistance of the evaporator outlet sensor to confirm whether it is faulty. Accessing the sensor typically requires removing the evaporator cover panel inside the refrigerator compartment. If the resistance measures below 660 Ohms, replacing the sensor is a straightforward repair for someone with basic appliance repair experience, though unfamiliarity with the evaporator area may make professional service a safer option.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator when error code 10 is showing?
A faulty evaporator outlet sensor can affect the refrigerator's ability to manage defrost cycles and monitor cooling performance accurately, which could lead to inadequate cooling or excessive frost buildup over time. While the refrigerator may continue to run in the short term, it is not advisable to ignore the fault for an extended period. Food safety could be compromised if cooling performance degrades as a result of the sensor fault.
Will resetting my Fisher & Paykel refrigerator clear error code 10?
A power reset may temporarily clear the error code display, but if the evaporator outlet sensor resistance remains below 660 Ohms, the code will return once the control board performs its next sensor check. A reset does not address the underlying hardware fault. The sensor or wiring must be tested and repaired or replaced to resolve the error permanently.
How much does it cost to repair error code 10 on a Fisher & Paykel refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on whether only the sensor needs replacement or if additional components such as wiring or the control board are involved. The evaporator outlet sensor itself is a relatively low-cost part, and a DIY repair may cost between $20 and $60 for the part alone. Professional repair including labor typically ranges from $100 to $250 depending on your location and the technician's rates.

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