Side-by-Side Refrigerator Not Cooling — Display Shows H and F: What to Check and Which Parts Fail
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
Many side-by-side refrigerators use simple letters on the control panel to indicate temperature status or alarms. A flashing or steady H often stands for a "high temperature" alarm (HI) indicating one compartment is warmer than the setpoint, while F can indicate the freezer, "Fridge" section, or be part of a two-letter code depending on the brand. When you see H and F together (or alternating) it usually means the refrigerator detected an over-temperature condition in one or both compartments. A high-temperature condition can come from a number of failures: failed temperature sensors (thermistors), evaporator or condenser fans not running, a sealed-system problem (compressor or refrigerant leak), blocked airflow (icy evaporator coil or stuck damper), or a failed control/defrost system that allows frost to build up on the evaporator. The first step is to confirm whether the compressor and fans are running, check for frost on the evaporator coil, and measure compartment temperatures to narrow the cause.
Common Symptoms
Control panel shows H (high-temp) and F; freezer and/or fridge not reaching set temperatures; compressor running too long or not at all; heavy frost/ice on evaporator coil (inside freezer behind back panel); reduced or no cold airflow between compartments.
Common Causes
- Failed temperature sensor (thermistor) reporting incorrect temperatures
- Evaporator fan motor not running (no circulation of cold air)
- Condenser fan or compressor failure causing insufficient cooling
- Defrost system failure (defrost heater, timer, or control) causing ice buildup on the evaporator
- Stuck or malfunctioning air damper/vent between freezer and fridge restricting airflow
- Sealed-system problem (refrigerant leak or compressor mechanical failure)
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Power-cycle the refrigerator (unplug 60 seconds, plug back in) to see if the alarm clears. While it's powered, open the freezer and listen for the evaporator fan and check the back of the fridge for the condenser fan and compressor operation. If the evaporator coil is iced over, suspect a defrost failure or blocked airflow; if fans or compressor are silent, those are likely culprits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does H and F mean on my refrigerator display?
H commonly stands for a high-temperature alarm (HI) — the fridge has detected that one compartment is above the desired temperature. F may indicate the freezer or be part of a brand-specific code. Check your owner's manual or the manufacturer's service manual for the exact meaning for your model. In practice, H/F together usually means the fridge detected an over-temperature condition in the freezer and/or fridge sections.
Can I diagnose and fix this myself, or do I need a technician?
You can perform basic checks yourself: power-cycle the unit, listen for compressor and fans, inspect the freezer evaporator (remove interior back panel) for frost/ice, and confirm temperature readings with a fridge thermometer. If the evaporator fan or condenser fan isn't running, that’s often an easy replacement. If the evaporator coil is iced up or the compressor isn't running properly, the repair may be more advanced (defrost circuit, sealed system, or control board) and it's best to call a qualified appliance technician. Always unplug the refrigerator before disassembling electrical components and consult the model-specific service manual for diagnostic codes and safe procedures.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.