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Error code reference

GE Refrigerator Error Code F713

Fresh food door open for 15 minutes without closing.

GE codesGE refrigerator codes

Fresh food door open for 15 minutes without closing.

First step from the service manual

Check door switch and door closure mechanism.

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

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What F713 means on a GE refrigerator

The F713 error code on a GE refrigerator indicates that the fresh food compartment door has remained open, or has been detected as open, for a continuous period of 15 minutes without closing. The refrigerator's control board monitors the door status through a door switch, which sends a signal to the main control indicating whether the door is open or closed. When that open-door signal persists beyond the 15-minute threshold, the F713 code is triggered and an alert is typically issued to prompt the user to check the door.

The most common root causes fall into two categories: actual door closure failures and door switch or sensor malfunctions. On the physical side, obstructions in the door gasket, misaligned door hinges, overloaded door shelves, or a worn and leaking door seal can all prevent the door from closing completely. On the electrical side, a faulty door switch that is stuck in the open position will continuously report an open door to the control board even when the door is physically shut, triggering the error incorrectly.

Diagnosis should begin by confirming whether the door is genuinely failing to close or seal, then move to testing the door switch for proper continuity. A functioning door switch should show continuity when the door is closed and no continuity when open. If the switch fails this test, it requires replacement. Gasket integrity can be checked with the paper test, sliding a sheet of paper along the seal with the door closed to feel for gaps or weak spots.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of F713

  1. 01

    Door left physically open

    Wiring / connection

    The door may have been left ajar by a household member or prevented from closing by an item sticking out from a shelf. Check the interior for any protruding food containers or items blocking the door path.

  2. 02

    Faulty or stuck door switch

    Part replacement

    The door switch may be stuck in the open position, causing the control board to continuously register an open door even when the door is closed. Test the switch for proper continuity with a multimeter to confirm whether it is functioning correctly.

  3. 03

    Worn or damaged door gasket

    Part replacement

    A deteriorated or torn door gasket can prevent the door from sealing fully, leaving a gap that allows warm air in and keeps the door technically open. Inspect the gasket around the full perimeter of the door for cracks, tears, or flattened sections.

  4. 04

    Misaligned or damaged door hinges

    Part replacement

    If the door hinges are bent, loose, or out of alignment, the door may sag and fail to close or latch properly. Check whether the door sits evenly in the frame and swings without resistance or binding.

  5. 05

    Overloaded door shelves

    Wiring / connection

    Excessive weight on door shelves can cause the door to sag slightly over time, preventing a proper seal. Redistribute items to interior shelves and test whether the door closes and seals correctly afterward.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about F713

What does F713 mean on a GE refrigerator?
The F713 code means the fresh food compartment door has been detected as open for 15 continuous minutes without closing. The refrigerator's control board monitors door status through a door switch, and triggers this alert when the open-door signal persists past that threshold. The cause can be a door that is physically open or not sealing, or a faulty door switch reporting an open door incorrectly.
How do I fix the F713 error code on my GE refrigerator?
Start by confirming the fresh food door is fully closed and that nothing inside the refrigerator is blocking it from shutting completely. Check the door gasket for damage or gaps, and test the door switch for proper continuity using a multimeter. If the switch is stuck in the open position or shows no continuity when the door is closed, it will need to be replaced.
Is the F713 error on a GE refrigerator a safety concern?
An open or poorly sealed fresh food door allows warm air to enter the compartment, which can raise internal temperatures and compromise food safety over time. If the door has genuinely been open or unsealed for an extended period, check that food temperatures are still within safe ranges. If the error is caused by a faulty door switch rather than an actual open door, the safety risk is lower, but the underlying problem should still be addressed promptly.
Will resetting my GE refrigerator clear the F713 error code?
Resetting the refrigerator by unplugging it or cycling the power may temporarily clear the F713 code, but the error will return if the underlying cause is not resolved. If the door switch is faulty or the door is not sealing properly, the control board will detect the same open-door condition and trigger the code again. A permanent fix requires addressing the physical or electrical cause of the fault.
How much does it cost to repair a GE refrigerator F713 error?
Repair costs depend on the root cause. Replacing a door switch is typically a lower-cost repair, with parts generally ranging from $15 to $50 and professional labor adding $75 to $150 or more depending on your area. A door gasket replacement can cost between $30 and $100 for the part, with similar labor rates. Hinge repairs or adjustments vary based on severity and whether replacement parts are needed.

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