Norcold Refrigerator Error Code Flashing Temperature Setting Icon

The flashing Temperature Setting Icon means the electronic control board has detected the fin thermistor as inoperable. The thermistor is a resistance-based temperature sensor located in the fin or evaporator area of the refrigerator. When the sensor signal is missing or out of range, the unit automatically switches to BOS (Backup Operating System) duty cycle mode and continues operating on a fixed cycle. The fault can appear in any operating mode, whether running on AC, DC, or LP gas.

The refrigerator will continue to run in BOS backup mode, so it is not an immediate safety hazard. However, because the unit is operating on a fixed duty cycle rather than responding to actual temperatures, it may not maintain consistent temperatures. Perishable foods should be monitored closely, and the fault should be diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible to ensure proper food safety.

If the fix is simply cleaning or reseating a connector, there may be little to no parts cost involved. Replacing a failed lamp-thermistor wire assembly typically costs anywhere from $20 to $80 or more depending on the specific model and where the part is sourced. If a control board replacement is ultimately needed, costs can range from $150 to $400 or higher. Having a technician perform the diagnosis and repair will add labor costs on top of any parts.

A simple reset is unlikely to permanently clear this fault because the control board will re-detect the thermistor as inoperable as soon as it resumes normal operation. The underlying cause, such as a loose connector, corroded contacts, or a failed thermistor, needs to be corrected first. Once the thermistor circuit is restored to proper working condition, the fault indication should clear on its own.

Start by locating the lamp-thermistor wire assembly and checking that its connector is fully plugged in and free of corrosion or damage. If the connection looks secure, use a multimeter to measure the resistance across the thermistor to determine whether it is within its normal operating range. If the thermistor resistance is out of specification, replacing the lamp-thermistor assembly is the likely fix. If the wiring and thermistor test correctly, the control board may need further evaluation.