Siemens Refrigerator: temperature sensor issue

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Experiencing issues with your Siemens refrigerator's temperature sensor? This can lead to incorrect internal temperature readings, inconsistent cooling, and alarming error codes like E1. If the temperature indicator light is flashing, your control system may not be receiving accurate data from the sensor. Addressing these symptoms promptly can prevent food spoilage and improve appliance performance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Siemens Models

  • Siemens refrigerators often use NTC sensors and display error codes like E1 for temperature sensor faults; sensor locations vary by model and are documented in service diagrams.

Possible Causes

Faulty refrigerator temperature sensor (NTC thermistor)

How to Identify: Error codes (e.g., E1, flashing temperature lights, readings outside expected resistance ranges when tested, or incorrect internal temperature behavior

Part: Refrigerator NTC temperature sensor/thermistor

Loose, damaged, or corroded sensor wiring/connectors

How to Identify: Intermittent temperature errors, visible damage or corrosion on wiring or connectors, inconsistent readings even after power reset

Part: Sensor wiring harness and connectors

Incorrect sensor placement or obstruction

How to Identify: Sensor blocked by food items or frost buildup leading to inaccurate readings without actual sensor failure

Part: Sensor placement within fridge compartment

Control board communication or failure

How to Identify: Persistent errors and alarms after sensor replacement or correct readings on sensor tests, requiring professional diagnosis

Part: Main control board input circuit for sensor

DIY Solutions

Power Reset and Self-Test

Easy 10 minutes
  1. Unplug the refrigerator for 5–10 minutes to reset control electronics.
  2. Plug back in and monitor if the temperature alarm clears.
  3. If model supports self-test, run per manual instructions (refer to user manual).
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure refrigerator is unplugged before handling controls

Visual Inspection of Sensor and Wiring

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, Flashlight
  1. Unplug the refrigerator.
  2. Locate the temperature sensor, often clipped to the rear wall or air channel.
  3. Check wiring and connectors for damage, corrosion, or loose connections.
  4. Reseat connectors firmly and ensure no visible damage.
  5. Restore power and test operation.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before accessing internal wiring

Test Sensor Resistance with Multimeter

Advanced 20–40 minutes
Tools Needed: Multimeter
  1. Unplug the refrigerator and access sensor.
  2. Set multimeter to resistance mode and measure sensor resistance at ambient temperature.
  3. Compare reading to model-specific expected range.
  4. If reading is far outside expected range, sensor likely faulty.
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure power is off before testing

Professional Repairs

Replace Temperature Sensor (Thermistor)

Estimated Cost: $25 - $100

Control Board Diagnosis and Repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Sensor error persists after DIY tests and replacement, control board suspected faulty
Signs of electrical damage, burning smell, or other serious faults

Preventive Maintenance

  • Ensure sensor area is unobstructed: Inaccurate sensor readings due to blocked airflow
    Frequency: Weekly
  • Clean condenser coils: Cooling inefficiency that may affect internal temperatures
    Frequency: Every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Siemens Refrigerator temperature sensor issue?
Common causes include a faulty temperature sensor, damaged wiring, or incorrect sensor placement.
How do I fix Siemens Refrigerator temperature sensor issue myself?
You can reset the power, inspect the sensor and wiring, or test the sensor resistance with a multimeter.
How much does it cost to fix temperature sensor issue?
Replacing the temperature sensor costs between $25 - $100; control board repairs can range from $150 - $400.
When should I call a technician for temperature sensor issue?
If DIY solutions do not resolve the issue or if you suspect control board failure, it’s time to contact a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty temperature sensor
  • Wiring issues between the temperature sensor and control board
  • Faulty control board affecting sensor readings

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Replace the faulty temperature sensor: 1) Unplug the refrigerator. 2) Locate the temperature sensor (usually found in the fresh food compartment). 3) Disconnect the old sensor from the wiring harness. 4) Install the new sensor and reconnect the wiring. 5) Plug the refrigerator back in and monitor the temperature.

  2. Check and repair wiring connections: 1) Unplug the refrigerator. 2) Inspect the wiring between the temperature sensor and the control board for any signs of damage or disconnection. 3) Repair or replace any damaged wires. 4) Reconnect everything and plug the refrigerator back in.

  3. Test and replace the control board if necessary: 1) Unplug the refrigerator. 2) Access the control board (usually located at the back or bottom). 3) Use a multimeter to test for continuity and proper voltage. 4) If faulty, replace the control board following the manufacturer's instructions.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Siemens refrigerator

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