mypros+
Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code F303

Fresh food temperature exceeded 75°F

GE codesGE refrigerator codes

Fresh food temperature exceeded 75°F. Sets if defrost has not run for 1 hour, doors closed for 1 hour, and FF temp is above 50°F.

First step from the service manual

Check sealed system operation, compressor, fans, and thermistors.

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

MyPros+ Max

Get the full diagnostic procedure for F303.

  • Step-by-step tests with expected resistance, voltage, and continuity values
  • Wiring diagram references and connector pinouts from the OEM service manual
  • Verified part numbers when replacement is required
Get the full procedure

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass

What F303 means on a GE refrigerator

The F303 error code on a GE refrigerator indicates that the fresh food compartment temperature has exceeded 75°F under specific conditions. The control board sets this fault only after three criteria are simultaneously met: defrost has not run for at least one hour, the refrigerator doors have remained closed for at least one hour, and the fresh food thermistor is reading above 50°F. This combination of conditions confirms the temperature rise is not due to door-open warm air infiltration or a post-defrost thermal recovery period, meaning the cooling system itself is failing to maintain safe food storage temperatures.

The primary systems involved in this fault are the sealed refrigerant system, the compressor, the evaporator and condenser fans, and the thermistor network. If the compressor is not running or is running but not pumping refrigerant effectively, the evaporator will not cool. A failed evaporator fan motor will prevent cooled air from circulating into the fresh food section even if the evaporator coil itself is cold. Similarly, a condenser fan failure causes the compressor to overheat and cycle off on thermal protection, reducing or eliminating cooling capacity.

Thermistor faults can also trigger this code. If the fresh food thermistor has drifted out of calibration or has failed to a high-resistance reading, the control board will interpret the compartment as warmer than it actually is. However, a thermistor fault alone would typically not align with the sealed system appearing healthy. Diagnosis should begin with verifying compressor operation and refrigerant pressure, then checking fan motor function, and finally confirming thermistor resistance values fall within the expected range for the sensed temperature.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F303

  1. 01

    Compressor failure or weak compressor

    Part replacement

    A failed or failing compressor cannot circulate refrigerant through the sealed system, resulting in rapid temperature rise in both compartments. Listen for the compressor attempting to start, and check for the unit short-cycling or running silently when it should be on.

  2. 02

    Sealed system refrigerant loss

    Part replacement

    A refrigerant leak reduces the system's ability to absorb heat at the evaporator, causing temperatures to rise even when the compressor runs. This is indicated by a compressor that runs continuously without achieving normal temperatures, and requires leak detection and recharge by a certified technician.

  3. 03

    Evaporator fan motor failure

    Part replacement

    The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the evaporator coil into the fresh food and freezer sections. If this motor fails or seizes, the evaporator may be cold but air will not move into the compartments, causing temperatures to rise. Check for airflow at the interior vents and listen for fan operation.

  4. 04

    Condenser fan motor failure

    Part replacement

    Without condenser fan airflow, heat cannot be rejected from the refrigerant circuit, causing the compressor to overheat and cut out on thermal overload protection. This results in intermittent or complete loss of cooling. Inspect the condenser fan for obstructions and verify the motor spins freely.

  5. 05

    Fresh food thermistor failure or drift

    Part replacement

    A thermistor that has failed or shifted out of its correct resistance range can cause the control board to misread the compartment temperature and log the F303 fault. Measure the thermistor resistance and compare it against the expected value for the current ambient temperature to confirm accuracy.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F303

What does F303 mean on a GE refrigerator?
F303 means the fresh food compartment temperature has exceeded 75°F under conditions that rule out door openings or recent defrost cycles as the cause. Specifically, the fault sets when defrost has not run for one hour, the doors have been closed for one hour, and the fresh food temperature is above 50°F. This points to a genuine cooling system problem rather than a temporary warm-up event. The compressor, fans, sealed system, and thermistors should all be evaluated.
Can I fix the F303 error code myself?
Some causes of F303, such as a seized evaporator fan motor or a failed thermistor, are accessible repairs for a knowledgeable DIYer with basic tools and a multimeter. However, sealed system issues involving refrigerant require EPA certification to service legally and should be handled by a licensed technician. Start by checking whether the condenser and evaporator fans are running, then test thermistor resistance before assuming a sealed system fault.
Will resetting the refrigerator clear the F303 code?
Resetting the control board may temporarily clear the F303 fault code, but if the underlying problem is not repaired, the code will return once the fault conditions are met again. A reset is not a fix and should only be used as part of diagnostics, such as after a component replacement to confirm the repair resolved the issue. Continuing to run the refrigerator with unresolved cooling failure risks food spoilage.
Is it safe to keep food in the refrigerator when F303 is displayed?
No, it is not safe to assume food is at a safe temperature when this code is active. The F303 code indicates the fresh food compartment has reached or exceeded 75°F, which is well above the FDA-recommended maximum storage temperature of 40°F. Perishable items should be moved to another refrigerator or cooler with ice until the unit is repaired and confirmed to be holding temperature correctly.
How much does it cost to repair a GE refrigerator with an F303 error code?
Repair costs vary significantly depending on which component has failed. A thermistor or fan motor replacement typically falls in the range of $100 to $300 including parts and labor. Compressor replacement is substantially more expensive, often ranging from $400 to $700 or more depending on the model and labor rates in your area. A sealed system refrigerant repair involving leak detection and recharge can also fall in the higher range and requires a certified technician.

Related GE refrigerator codes

All GE refrigerator codes
View all 540 GE refrigerator codes

78,000+ service manuals · 160,000+ error codes · 55+ brands

Get Started

$29/month · Cancel anytime · Or $9.95 3-day pass