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Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code F104

FF icemaker mold heater not heating (mold thermistor does not detect a 3°F temperature rise within 120 seconds).

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What the F104 error code actually means

Your GE refrigerator's icemaker is having trouble releasing ice because the small heater that warms the ice tray is not working properly. The refrigerator checked whether the tray warmed up within two minutes and it did not, so it stopped the ice-making cycle and displayed this code. Until the problem is fixed, your icemaker will not produce ice.

Diagnostic procedure

The full F104 procedure

Step 1 is visible so you can confirm you are on the right page. The remaining steps, the ones that tell you whether to actually replace a part, unlock with any pass.

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1
Confirm the fault
Power cycle the unit: switch off the breaker for 60 seconds, then restore power. If the code returns, the fault is persistent and the procedure below isolates the cause.
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Most common causes of F104

Ranked by how often they cause this code
  1. 1Failed mold heater element
  2. 2Faulty mold thermistor
  3. 3Damaged or loose wiring harness
  4. 4Defective icemaker module
  5. 5Control board fault

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Questions people ask about F104

What does F104 mean on a GE refrigerator?
F104 indicates that the freezer icemaker mold heater is not heating properly. The control board runs a check during the harvest cycle and expects the mold thermistor to detect a temperature rise of at least 2°F within 120 seconds of the heater activating. When that rise is not detected in time, the board stores F104 and stops the harvest cycle. Ice production will not resume until the underlying fault is resolved.
Is it safe to keep using my refrigerator with an F104 code?
The refrigerator itself will continue to cool and freeze food normally while displaying F104, so food safety is not immediately at risk. The icemaker harvest cycle will be interrupted, meaning ice production stops. It is advisable to address the fault reasonably soon to avoid prolonged strain on the icemaker mechanism and to restore ice production.
Will resetting my GE refrigerator clear the F104 error code?
A power reset may temporarily clear the F104 code from the display, but the code will return if the underlying hardware fault has not been corrected. The control board will re-run the harvest cycle check and log the error again as soon as it detects that the mold thermistor is not registering the required temperature rise. A permanent fix requires diagnosing and replacing the defective component.
Can I fix the F104 error myself?
Some aspects of this repair are within reach for a knowledgeable DIYer. Inspecting and reseating wiring connectors, and testing the mold heater for continuity with a multimeter, are straightforward tasks. Replacing the mold thermistor or the icemaker module is also manageable with basic tools. However, if the control board is suspected, board replacement or repair is more complex and may warrant a professional technician.
How much does it cost to repair an F104 error on a GE refrigerator?
Repair costs vary depending on the failed component. A mold thermistor is typically an inexpensive part, often in the range of $10 to $30. A replacement icemaker module or mold heater assembly can range from $40 to $120 in parts. If a professional technician is needed, labor fees will add to the total, with complete repairs commonly falling in the range of $100 to $300 depending on the specific components replaced and local labor rates.

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