Summit Refrigerator E5 — What It Means & How to Fix It
E5 on a Summit frost-free refrigerator-freezer indicates a defrost heater failure.
What this code means
Summit's manual says "E5" indicates a defrost heater failure. A frost-free cabinet melts ice off its evaporator with that heater at intervals. When the heater stops working the ice stays, airflow is choked off, and the compartments slowly warm up.
Summit's user manual for the FFRF24SS, FFRF24S1S, LFD24S1, BRF241FD, FFRF3070B and FFRF3075W lists this code in its troubleshooting table. Summit sells many different cabinets, so confirm the code in the manual for the model number on your rating label.
Most likely causes
| Cause | How likely | DIY-fixable? |
|---|---|---|
| Failed defrost heater | Common | No — technician job |
| Open circuit in the heater wiring | Occasional | No — technician job |
What you can try yourself
- Write down the code plus the model and serial number.
- Watch the cabinet temperature and move perishables elsewhere if it starts to rise.
- Arrange service — the heater is a mains-powered part mounted on the evaporator.
Seeing the symptom rather than the code? Refrigerator not cooling: checks that apply across brands.
When to call a technician
- E5 is showing — the heater circuit needs a technician.
- Thick frost or ice is visible on the rear panel.
- The fridge section is warm while the compressor runs constantly.
Typical professional repair cost: A defrost heater replacement typically costs $200–$350 fitted.
Frequently asked questions
Will my Summit fridge keep cooling with E5?
For a time, but ice builds on the evaporator when the heater is not working and cooling drops off as the airflow is blocked.
Is a defrost heater something I can replace myself?
It is a mains-voltage component behind interior panels, so it should be left to a qualified technician.
Sources checked
Error meanings can vary by model. This guide was checked against the documentation above; use the manual for the model number on your own appliance when it differs.
Related Summit codes
- Summit Refrigerator E1 E1 or E2 on a Summit frost-free refrigerator-freezer means the air temperature sensor has failed.
- Summit Refrigerator E3 E3 or E4 on a Summit frost-free refrigerator-freezer means the defrost sensor in the evaporator has failed.
- Summit Refrigerator E7 E7 on a Summit frost-free refrigerator-freezer indicates a door switch failure.
More: all Summit refrigerator codes · all Summit codes · search by symptom