If you own a GE refrigerator, you may have experienced a blinking green light on the control board. This can indicate a problem with the control board, which can affect the performance of your refrigerator. Before calling a professional technician, it’s worth trying to reset the control board yourself.
In this blog post, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to reset your GE refrigerator control board when the green light is blinking.
How to reset the GE refrigerator control board when the green light is blinking
If the green light on your GE refrigerator’s control board is blinking, it may indicate a problem that requires a reset.
Step 1: Unplug the Refrigerator
The first thing you need to do is to unplug your GE refrigerator from the power source. This will ensure your safety and protect your appliance from any electrical damage.
Step 2: Wait for 30 Minutes
Wait for at least 30 minutes before proceeding to the next step. This is to give enough time for the control board to reset itself.
Step 3: Plug in the Refrigerator
After 30 minutes have passed, plug the refrigerator back into the power source. Make sure that the outlet is functioning correctly.
Step 4: Check the Control Board
Check the control board to see if the green light is still blinking. If it is, proceed to the next step.
Step 5: Press and Hold the Reset Button
Locate the reset button on the control board and press it down for three seconds. This will reset the control board and hopefully stop the blinking green light.
Step 6: Wait for a Few Minutes
After pressing the reset button, wait for a few minutes for the control board to reboot. This will give it enough time to process the reset and get back to its normal state.
Step 7: Check the Control Board Again
Finally, check the control board again to see if the green light has stopped blinking. If it has, congratulations! You have successfully reset the GE refrigerator control board.
If the light is still blinking, you may need to repeat the process or seek assistance from a professional.
Reasons why the green light on the control board may blink
Here are some common reasons why the green light may blink:
Power Interruption
A power interruption can cause the control board to malfunction, resulting in a blinking green light. In this case, you may need to reset the control board to restore proper function.
Door Ajar
If the refrigerator door is not closed properly, the control board may detect this and cause the green light to blink. Ensure that the door is closed tightly to prevent this issue.
Dirty Condenser Coils
Dirty condenser coils can cause the refrigerator to overheat and the control board to malfunction. If you suspect that this may be the cause, clean the coils and reset the control board.
Faulty Thermostat
If the thermostat is faulty, it may not signal the control board to regulate the temperature properly, resulting in a blinking green light.
A professional technician can diagnose and replace the faulty thermostat.
Malfunctioning Control Board
If none of the above reasons seem to be the cause of the blinking green light, the control board itself may be malfunctioning.
In this case, you may need to seek assistance from a professional technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
Safety precautions to take before resetting the control board
Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind before resetting the control board:
Unplug the Refrigerator
Before doing anything, unplug the refrigerator from the power source. This will protect you from electrical shock and prevent any damage to the appliance.
Wear Gloves
When handling electrical components, it’s always a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or potential hazards.
Use Proper Tools
Make sure you have the proper tools on hand before starting the reset process. This may include a screwdriver or pliers to access the control board.
Follow Instructions Carefully
Be sure to carefully follow the instructions for resetting the control board. Skipping steps or rushing through the process can result in additional damage or safety hazards.
Don’t Force Anything
If you encounter resistance while accessing the control board, don’t force anything. This can cause damage to the appliance or the control board itself. Instead, seek assistance from a professional technician.
Common issues after resetting the control board and how to fix them
Resetting the control board on your GE refrigerator can solve many issues, but it’s important to be aware of potential problems that may occur after the reset. Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
Cooling Issues
If the refrigerator is not cooling properly after the reset, it could indicate a problem with the temperature sensor or evaporator fan.
Check the sensor and fan to ensure they are working properly, and replace them if necessary.
Error Codes
After the reset, you may see error codes on the control board display. These codes indicate specific issues that require further diagnosis and repair.
Check the user manual for information on how to interpret errors codes and address the issue.
Damaged Control Board
In some cases, resetting the control board may reveal a deeper issue with the appliance, such as a damaged control board. If this is the case, a professional technician may need to diagnose and repair the issue.
Water Dispenser Issues
If the water dispenser is not working properly after the reset, it could indicate a clogged or frozen water line.
Check the water line and dispenser components to ensure they are clear of any obstructions.
Ice Maker Issues
If the ice maker is not working properly after the reset, it could indicate a problem with the water supply or ice maker motor.
Check the water supply and motor to ensure they are working properly, and replace them if necessary.
Tips for maintaining your GE refrigerator
Maintaining your GE refrigerator is essential to ensure its longevity and proper function. Here are some tips for maintaining your refrigerator:
Keep it Clean
Regularly cleaning your refrigerator, both inside and out, can help prevent odors and keep it functioning properly.
Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the interior, and a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior.
Check the Temperature
Check the temperature settings on your refrigerator regularly to ensure they are set correctly.
Keeping your refrigerator at the recommended temperature can help prevent spoilage and keep your food fresh.
Organize Your Food
Organizing your food inside the refrigerator can help improve airflow and prevent the buildup of condensation.
Use designated areas for certain types of food, and avoid overpacking the refrigerator.
Check the Door Seals
Make sure the door seals on your refrigerator are in good condition and free from any cracks or damage.
Damaged door seals can allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, causing it to work harder and potentially increasing your energy bill.
Change the Water Filter
If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or ice maker, make sure to change the water filter regularly.
This can help prevent contaminants from entering your drinking water and keep your ice tasting fresh.
Keep the Coils Clean
The coils on the back or underneath your refrigerator can collect dust and debris, which can impact its efficiency.
Clean the coils regularly with a vacuum or brush to improve its performance and energy efficiency.
FAQs
Will Resetting The Control Board On My GE Refrigerator Cause Me To Lose Any Settings Or Stored Information?
No, resetting the control board on your GE refrigerator should not cause you to lose any settings or stored information. Any issues that were present before the reset may still need to be addressed.
What Should I Do If My GE Refrigerator Is Still Not Functioning Properly After Resetting The Control Board?
If your GE refrigerator is still not functioning properly after resetting the control board, there may be a deeper issue that requires further diagnosis and repair. Consider seeking assistance from a professional technician.
How Often Should I Reset The Control Board On My GE Refrigerator?
You should only reset the control board on your GE refrigerator when there is an issue that needs to be addressed. Resetting the control board too often can potentially damage the appliance or cause more problems to arise.
Conclusion
Resetting the control board on your GE refrigerator when the green light is blinking can often resolve any issues with the appliance.
By following the simple steps outlined in this guide, you can easily reset the control board yourself and restore proper function to your refrigerator.
Practicing good maintenance habits can help prevent issues from occurring in the first place and ensure the longevity of your appliance.
