Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Er IS

Er IS stands for icing sensor error. The control board has detected either a short circuit or a disconnection in the ice maker sensor circuit. This prevents the refrigerator from reading temperature conditions inside the ice maker correctly. The fault is in the icing sensor itself or the wiring connected to it.

The refrigerator section will typically continue cooling normally with an Er IS code active, so food safety is generally not an immediate concern. However, ice maker function will be disabled or unreliable until the fault is resolved. Leaving the fault unaddressed for an extended period is not recommended, as the control board cannot properly manage the ice-making cycle without a functioning icing sensor.

Unplug the refrigerator before testing. Locate the icing sensor wiring harness connector and disconnect it from the sensor. Set a multimeter to the resistance (ohms) setting and probe both Blue wire terminals in the harness-side connector. Compare the reading to the resistance specification in your model's service manual, which varies by temperature. A reading of zero ohms indicates a short, while an open line (OL) reading indicates a broken wire or disconnected sensor. Either condition is consistent with the Er IS fault.

Start by unplugging the refrigerator and locating the icing sensor connector inside the freezer or ice maker compartment. Unplug and firmly reseat the connector, then restore power to see if the code clears. If the code returns, use a multimeter to measure resistance across the Blue to Blue wires at the sensor connector. If resistance is out of range or reads open, the wiring harness or the sensor itself needs to be replaced.

If the fix is simply reseating a loose connector, there is no parts cost. A replacement icing sensor or ice maker sensor typically costs between $20 and $60 depending on the specific Kenmore model. If a section of wiring harness needs replacement, parts costs are similar. A professional appliance technician will add a service call fee, generally $75 to $150, plus labor. DIY repair is feasible for anyone comfortable using a multimeter and working inside a freezer compartment.