FIXED GE GFE28HGHEBB Not holding the fridge temp. Freezer seems ok

[ebgefix]

Model Number

GFE28HGHEBB

Brand

GE

Age

1-5 years

So, I have the GE fridge and it has been working well for years. Now, from time to time the fridge temperature gets warm, while freezer remains frozen.
With temperature data logger, you can see how it varies (when set to 34). Sometimes for days on end temperature rises and remains above safe levels.

I've gotten into the diagnostic mode, disassembled the back and verified that all of the fans work. Coil appears clean and clear of ice.
Green graph is humidity, black is temperature. Temperature units on the left, humidity on the right.
Large spikes with slow die off, such as one at 14:00, are likely from us opening the door to use the fridge.

What could be failing? What diagnostic test can I be checking to verify proper operation?
Thank you for your time.

 

[Jake]

Hi,

When the refrigerator temp. rises like that, is the compressor and fans all still running? Or is the entire machine dead silent?

Also notice if you hear the fan in the refrigerator section running the temp. rises, that's usually the refrigerator evaporator fan motor when it does this problem. I replaced one locally back in April 2021 in Parker, Arizona and it fixed it.

Here's the refrigerator evaporator fan motor for your model, if needed:
Refrigerator Evaporator Fan Motor WR60X26866


Jake

 

[ebgefix]

Thanks Jake. I think you are right!
I caught my fan not working today, I guess it's intermittent.
Diagnostic test 47, as described here (link), shows that the fan is not spinning. Other fans showed readings during the test.
I've ordered the replacement, should have it tomorrow. I'll update the thread with the results.

 

[Jake]

Ok, yes I'm about %100 sure that new refrigerator evaporator fan motor will fix it.

Yes, let us know.

Jake

 

[ebgefix]

Replacement went smoothly. Fridge has been cooling down most of the day now. Already much better than what has been going on all week. Thank you @Jake, you were right on the fix.

 

[Jake]

Excellent @ebgefix glad to hear the new refrigerator evaporator fan motor fixed it.

Thanks for the update!

Jake