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Error code reference

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Er rt

Room temperature sensor error (displayed when ICE PLUS key and Freezer Temp key are pressed simultaneously…

Kenmore codesKenmore refrigerator codes

Room temperature sensor error (displayed when ICE PLUS key and Freezer Temp key are pressed simultaneously for one second).

First step from the service manual

Check room temperature sensor for open or short circuit.

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

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  • 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
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What Er rt means on a Kenmore refrigerator

Er rt is a room temperature sensor fault code. The control board monitors the signal from the room temperature sensor continuously, and when it detects either a short circuit or an open circuit (disconnection) in that sensor circuit, it sets this code. The room temperature sensor provides ambient temperature data that the refrigerator uses to adjust its cooling behavior based on the environment it is operating in. A shorted sensor pulls the resistance reading below the expected range, while a disconnected sensor sends no signal at all. Both conditions are out of spec and trigger Er rt.

For homeowners, this means the refrigerator has lost contact with one of its sensors, specifically the one that monitors the temperature of the room around the unit. This sensor helps the fridge compensate when your kitchen is unusually hot or cold. When the control board cannot read it, it logs this error. The refrigerator may still cool, but it is operating without complete information, which can affect efficiency and temperature stability.

The first place to check is the sensor itself and the wiring connector that links it to the control board. Connectors can loosen over time, corrode, or pull free from vibration. The sensor itself can also fail internally through a short or open condition in its thermistor element.

Source: manufacturer service documentation.

Common causes of Er rt

  1. 01

    Loose or disconnected room temperature sensor connector

    Wiring / connection

    The wiring connector joining the room temperature sensor to the control board harness can work loose over time due to vibration or movement of internal components. A disconnected connector breaks the circuit entirely, which the control board reads as an open condition and triggers Er rt.

  2. 02

    Failed room temperature sensor (open or shorted thermistor)

    Part replacement

    The room temperature sensor contains a thermistor that changes resistance with temperature. If the thermistor element internally shorts or opens, due to age, moisture, or physical damage, the sensor will send a signal that is out of the valid range, causing the control board to set Er rt.

  3. 03

    Damaged wiring harness to room temperature sensor

    Part replacement

    The wires between the room temperature sensor and the control board can be pinched, chafed, or corroded, creating either a short to ground or a broken circuit. Inspect the full length of the harness for visible damage, especially near edges, fasteners, or areas exposed to moisture.

  4. 04

    Faulty main control board

    Part replacement

    If the sensor and all wiring check out within spec, the control board itself may have a failed input circuit for the room temperature sensor signal. This is the least common cause and should only be suspected after the sensor and harness have been tested and confirmed good.

See the test procedure for each cause

Frequently asked questions about Er rt

What does the Er rt error code mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?
Er rt indicates a room temperature sensor error. The control board has detected either a short circuit or a disconnection in the room temperature sensor circuit and is no longer receiving a valid signal from it. This sensor monitors the ambient temperature surrounding the refrigerator to help regulate cooling performance.
How do I fix Er rt on a Kenmore refrigerator?
Start by unplugging the refrigerator and locating the room temperature sensor, then check that its connector is fully seated and free of corrosion. If the connector is secure, use a multimeter to measure the sensor's resistance and compare it against the spec in your service manual. A shorted or open reading confirms a failed sensor that needs to be replaced. If the sensor tests good, inspect the entire wiring harness between the sensor and the control board for damage before considering a board replacement.
Can I still use my Kenmore refrigerator while Er rt is showing?
The refrigerator will likely continue to run and maintain cooling with Er rt active, but it is operating without accurate ambient temperature data, which can cause it to cool inefficiently or behave erratically in extreme room temperatures. It is safe to use temporarily to preserve food, but the underlying sensor fault should be diagnosed and repaired promptly to avoid long-term performance issues.
How much does it cost to fix the Er rt code on a Kenmore refrigerator?
If the fix is simply reseating a loose connector, there is no parts cost. A replacement room temperature sensor typically costs between $10 and $40 depending on the specific Kenmore model. If the main control board turns out to be the cause, board replacement can run $100 to $300 or more for parts alone. A technician visit adds a diagnostic fee and labor, commonly $75 to $150 per hour, so attempting the connector and sensor checks yourself first is a reasonable approach before calling for service.
How do I test the room temperature sensor to diagnose Er rt?
Disconnect the room temperature sensor from the wiring harness and use a multimeter set to measure resistance (ohms). At typical room temperature, around 77°F or 25°C, most refrigerator thermistors read in the range of 5,000 to 10,000 ohms, but confirm the exact spec for your model in the service manual. A reading near zero ohms indicates a short; a reading of infinite resistance (OL) indicates an open. Either result means the sensor needs to be replaced.

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