Whirlpool Refrigerator Error Code C — Refrigerator Compartment Thermistor Failure
What this means
The error code C displayed on the refrigerator compartment side of a Whirlpool refrigerator indicates the refrigerator compartment thermistor (temperature sensor) has failed. This sensor tells the control board the current temperature inside the fresh food compartment so it can regulate cooling cycles. When it fails, the refrigerator may not cool properly, may run continuously, or may not run at all.
Step-by-step fix
4 stepsUnplug the refrigerator
Disconnect the refrigerator from the power outlet. Wait 5 minutes before beginning work to allow any residual charge to dissipate.
Move perishable food to a cooler with ice to keep it safe while you work on the repair.
Locate the refrigerator compartment thermistor
Open the refrigerator door and locate the thermistor. It is typically mounted on the side wall or rear wall of the refrigerator compartment behind a small cover. Remove the cover by releasing clips or removing a small screw.
You may need to remove shelves to access the thermistor cover. The sensor itself is a small component with a two-wire connector.
Test the thermistor
Disconnect the wire harness from the thermistor. Use a multimeter set to ohms to test the resistance. At room temperature (77°F), the thermistor should read approximately 16,600 ohms. At 37°F (normal fridge temp), it should read approximately 32,000 ohms.
If the resistance reading does not change when you warm the sensor in your hand, the sensor is defective.
Replace the thermistor
If the thermistor is faulty, disconnect the old sensor from its wire harness and remove it from its mounting clip. Install the new thermistor, reconnect the wire harness, and replace the cover. Plug the refrigerator back in.
After replacing, allow 24 hours for the refrigerator to stabilize at the correct temperature before adjusting settings.
When to call a professional
If replacing the thermistor does not clear the error code, the main control board or the wire harness may be faulty. A technician can test the circuit to determine the root cause.
Related error codes
Information compiled from manufacturer service manuals, official troubleshooting documentation, and appliance repair industry resources. This guide is for informational purposes only — always consult a qualified technician for complex repairs.
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