LG Refrigerator Error Code F-area defroster sensor open/short

This error means the control board has detected that the freezer evaporator defrost sensor is reading a temperature below -50°C or above +50°C, which indicates an open or short circuit in the sensor or its wiring. An open circuit typically means a broken thermistor or severed wire, while a short circuit means the sensor leads are contacting each other or a ground. The refrigerator flags this fault to alert you that the defrost cycle monitoring system cannot function correctly.

With this error active, the defrost cycle may not operate correctly, which can lead to ice buildup on the evaporator coil and reduced cooling performance over time. Food safety can be compromised if cooling is significantly impaired. It is best to address the fault promptly rather than continuing to run the refrigerator with a known defrost sensor fault.

If only the defrost sensor needs replacement, parts typically range from around $15 to $50 depending on the model, making it one of the lower-cost refrigerator repairs. If a service technician is needed, labor costs can bring the total to somewhere in the $100 to $250 range. If the main control board is at fault, parts alone can range from $100 to $300 or more, with labor added on top.

A knowledgeable DIYer can diagnose this fault by testing the defrost sensor's resistance with a multimeter and inspecting the wiring harness for damage or corrosion. If the sensor tests out of range, replacing it is a straightforward repair that involves accessing the freezer evaporator panel. However, if the wiring or control board is involved, the repair becomes more involved and may benefit from professional service.

A power reset may temporarily clear the error code from the display, but the fault will return if the underlying sensor or wiring problem is not repaired. The control board re-evaluates the sensor reading continuously, so if the sensor or circuit is still faulty, the code will reappear. A reset alone is not a fix and should only be used as a step during diagnosis.