KitchenAid Refrigerator Error Code SH + RC compartment sensor shorted or open

This code means the control board has detected an electrical fault in the RC compartment temperature sensor. The sensor is either shorted, producing a resistance reading that is too low, or open, producing no readable signal at all. Either condition prevents the refrigerator from accurately monitoring temperature in that zone. The fault can originate from the sensor itself, its wiring, or the control board.

Operating the refrigerator with an active sensor fault is not recommended for extended periods. Without accurate temperature data from the RC compartment, the control board cannot regulate that zone properly, which could result in food temperatures rising into unsafe ranges. It is best to address the fault promptly and store perishable items elsewhere in the meantime.

Repair costs vary depending on the root cause. A replacement compartment temperature sensor is generally an affordable part, typically in the range of $15 to $60, while a main control board can cost significantly more, often between $100 and $300 or higher for the part alone. Adding professional labor, total repair costs can range from around $100 to $400 or more depending on the specific failure and your location.

Some causes are accessible to a knowledgeable DIYer, such as reseating a loose connector, inspecting wiring for visible damage, or manually defrosting ice buildup around the sensor. However, accurately diagnosing whether the sensor or control board has failed requires a multimeter to measure sensor resistance and check wiring continuity. If the sensor itself needs replacement, it is a moderately involved repair that requires accessing the interior of the refrigerator compartment.

A power reset by unplugging the refrigerator for a few minutes may temporarily clear the displayed code, but if the underlying sensor or wiring fault still exists, the error will return once the control board re-evaluates the sensor circuit. A reset is useful for confirming whether the fault is intermittent, but it does not repair the root cause.