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Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code 42

The icemaker fill tube nozzle heater current is high

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The icemaker fill tube nozzle heater current is high. Only seen with data download using Smart Tool.

First step from the service manual

Check the connections to the controller. Check the resistance of the heater.

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

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What 42 means on a GE refrigerator

Error code 42 on a GE refrigerator indicates that the control board has detected an abnormally high current draw through the icemaker fill tube nozzle heater circuit. This small heater is positioned at the fill tube nozzle to prevent water from freezing in the tube before it reaches the ice mold, which would cause ice bridging and icemaker failure. The controller continuously monitors current flow through this heater, and when that current exceeds the expected operating range, code 42 is triggered and logged.

This code is not displayed on the refrigerator's user interface under normal operating conditions. It is only accessible through a data download using GE's Smart Tool diagnostic equipment, meaning a technician with that tool must retrieve it from the control board's fault log. The heater itself is a resistive heating element, and high current conditions typically point to a short circuit within the heater, a wiring harness fault, or a failed control board output driving the circuit below expected resistance.

Diagnosis begins at the controller connections, where loose, corroded, or damaged pins can cause erratic current readings. After confirming the connections are secure and clean, the resistance of the fill tube nozzle heater should be measured with a multimeter and compared against the expected specification. A shorted heater will read significantly lower resistance than normal, causing the overcurrent condition. If the heater and wiring check out correctly, the control board itself may be misreading the circuit or supplying incorrect voltage to the heater.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of 42

  1. 01

    Shorted fill tube nozzle heater

    Part replacement

    A failed heater element with an internal short circuit will draw excessive current. Measure the heater's resistance with a multimeter; a reading significantly below the normal specification confirms a shorted heater that needs replacement.

  2. 02

    Damaged or pinched wiring harness

    Part replacement

    Wiring leading to the heater can become pinched, abraded, or melted, creating a short to ground or between conductors. Inspect the harness along its full length for visible damage, especially near sharp edges or heat sources.

  3. 03

    Loose or corroded connector at the controller

    Wiring / connection

    Poor connections at the control board can cause abnormal current readings even if the heater itself is functioning correctly. Inspect the connector pins for corrosion, pushed-back terminals, or loose fit and reseat the connector firmly.

  4. 04

    Failed control board

    Part replacement

    If the heater resistance measures within normal range and the wiring and connections are intact, the control board may be outputting incorrect voltage or misreading the circuit current. Board replacement would be required in this scenario.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about 42

What does 42 mean on a GE refrigerator?
Error code 42 on a GE refrigerator means the control board has detected a high current condition in the icemaker fill tube nozzle heater circuit. This heater prevents water from freezing in the fill tube before it enters the ice mold. The code is not shown on the display panel and can only be retrieved using GE's Smart Tool diagnostic equipment. It indicates an electrical fault in the heater, its wiring, or the control board.
Can I fix error code 42 on my GE refrigerator myself?
Some steps, like checking and reseating the wiring connections at the control board, are accessible to a skilled DIYer. However, retrieving this code in the first place requires GE's Smart Tool, which is typically only available to certified technicians. Measuring heater resistance with a multimeter is also a manageable DIY step, but replacing the heater or control board may require disassembly of the freezer compartment and is best handled by a qualified technician.
Is error code 42 on a GE refrigerator a safety concern?
A high current condition in a heater circuit can indicate a short circuit, which carries a risk of electrical damage to the control board or, in rare cases, overheating of wiring. While the refrigerator may continue operating, it is advisable to have the fault diagnosed promptly. If you notice any burning smell or signs of melted wiring near the icemaker area, discontinue use and call a technician.
How much does it cost to repair error code 42 on a GE refrigerator?
Repair costs depend on the faulty component identified during diagnosis. Replacing the fill tube nozzle heater is generally a lower-cost repair, with parts and labor typically ranging from around 100 to 250 dollars. If the control board is the cause, costs can rise to a range of 300 to 600 dollars or more depending on the specific model and labor rates in your area.
Will resetting my GE refrigerator clear error code 42?
Resetting the refrigerator by unplugging it or cycling the breaker may temporarily clear the stored fault code, but the code will return if the underlying electrical problem is not repaired. Because this code is only accessible via the Smart Tool data log, clearing it without fixing the root cause simply delays proper diagnosis. The heater circuit fault must be identified and corrected to resolve the condition permanently.

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