GE Ice Maker Error Code LED flashes 5 times

Five LED flashes on a GE ice maker indicate that the control board could not detect the evaporator thermistor during a Clean or Diagnostics cycle. The evaporator thermistor is a temperature sensor mounted on the evaporator assembly that the board uses to monitor and control the ice-making process. This fault must be resolved before the unit will operate normally.

It is not recommended to continue using the ice maker while this fault is active. Without a functioning evaporator thermistor, the control board cannot properly monitor evaporator temperature, which can disrupt freeze and harvest cycles and potentially cause the unit to operate outside its intended parameters. Resolving the fault before resuming use is the safest approach.

Repair costs depend on which component has failed. A replacement evaporator thermistor is generally an inexpensive part, typically in the range of $15 to $50, while a replacement control board can cost significantly more, often between $80 and $200 or higher depending on the model. If you hire a technician, expect to add a service call fee and labor costs on top of part prices.

Start by checking the wiring connector at the evaporator thermistor and at the control board, reseating any loose connections. Next, test the thermistor resistance with a multimeter to determine whether the sensor is within its acceptable range. If the connector and sensor both check out, inspect the wiring harness for damage and test for continuity. Replace whichever component the testing identifies as faulty.

A reset may temporarily clear the displayed fault, but the error will return during the next Clean or Diagnostics cycle if the underlying problem has not been fixed. The control board checks for the evaporator thermistor signal each time that routine runs, so a permanent fix requires repairing or replacing the faulty component rather than relying on a reset.