Home Fault Codes

Kenmore Refrigerator Error Code Er rF: Meaning and Fix

Er rF
How Er rF appears on a Kenmore refrigerator display.
Kenmore refrigerator evaporator fan motor part photo, the component usually involved when Er rF (refrigerator fan error (lg-built)) appears
AppliancePartsPros.com product photo

Also shown as: Er rF

Reading the refrigerator display

On a refrigerator the code shows on the control panel or dispenser display. Some models flash a letter or alternate two characters; hold the code in view and note both. Check the model-number prefix first: the same Kenmore code can mean different things depending on the manufacturer.

Kenmore is a private label, and the factory that built your unit decides which fault codes it shows. The first digits of a Kenmore model number (110, 417, 665, 795, 796 and so on) tell you whether Whirlpool, LG, Electrolux or Frigidaire made it. Check the model label on your unit before using any chart.

What causes Er rF

How to fix it

  1. Unplug the refrigerator and move freezer food into a cooler; leave the unit off for about 24 hours to thaw the ice fully.
  2. Remove the rear freezer panel and check the fan can spin freely by hand.
  3. Reseat the plug.
  4. Inspect the defrost heater, bimetal thermostat and sensor for continuity.
  5. Replace the fan motor or any failed defrost component.
  6. Reassemble, plug in and allow 24 hours to reach temperature before restocking.

Parts you may need

PartPart no.Buy
Refrigerator Evaporator Fan MotorWR60X31522Find part

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Some links are affiliate links; we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Questions

What does error Er rF mean on a Kenmore refrigerator?

The fan that moves air in the fresh-food section fails to report speed. Kenmore sells units built by several manufacturers, so the code table that applies depends on who made your model; use the model number to confirm.

Can I keep using my refrigerator while Er rF is showing?

Food stays cold for a day or so, but a dead fan or defrost fault lets temperatures drift up, so move perishables if you cannot repair it quickly.

How do I clear Er rF, and can I fix it myself?

Cancel the program, switch the appliance off and leave it unplugged (or the breaker off) for about five minutes, then restart. The code only stays cleared if the underlying problem is fixed, so work through the steps above. Parts here involve electronics, heating or sealed components, so consider a qualified technician if the basic checks do not clear it.

Other Kenmore refrigerator codes

Kenmore refrigerator evaporator fan motor part photo, the component usually involved when Er FF (freezer fan error (lg-built)) appearsEr FFFreezer fan error (LG-built)Kenmore refrigerator temperature sensor part photo, the component usually involved when Er rt (refrigerator thermistor error (lg-built)) appearsEr rtRefrigerator thermistor error (LG-built)Kenmore refrigerator temperature sensor part photo, the component usually involved when Er FS (freezer sensor error (lg-built)) appearsEr FSFreezer sensor error (LG-built)Kenmore refrigerator defrost heater part photo, the component usually involved when Er dF (defrost sensor error (lg-built)) appearsEr dFDefrost sensor error (LG-built)Kenmore refrigerator condenser fan motor part photo, the component usually involved when Er IF (ice maker fan error (lg-built)) appearsEr IFIce maker fan error (LG-built)Kenmore refrigerator control board part photo, the component usually involved when Er CO (communication error (lg-built)) appearsEr COCommunication error (LG-built)

Sources

Part numbers are OEM references; confirm fit by your model number before ordering. Meanings compiled from manufacturer and parts-retailer documentation; see sources below. Unplug the appliance before opening it.

Applies to models including Kenmore Elite 795 series (LG-built), Kenmore 106 series (Whirlpool-built), Kenmore 253 series (Frigidaire-built).