The H1 error code on a Frigidaire refrigerator is supposed to warn you that the internal temperature of the fridge is above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
As disruptive as error codes can be, they can help you identify and solve problems with your refrigerator before major damage is done.
The H1 error code on Frigidaire refrigerators warns you that the internal temperature in the refrigerator has increased to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or above, and that it is no longer cool enough to store food in safely.
Why do refrigerators have error codes?
It can be extremely frustrating when a major appliance such as a refrigerator suddenly displays an error code and then refuses to work.
However, as inconvenient as it may be, this error code system is there to warn you about issues with components inside your refrigerator before these issues become dangerous or ruin the entire appliance.
The error or fault code is triggered when the internal sensors of your refrigerator pick up that something is not right with the way the appliance functions.
It can also help to guide you or a professional repair technician regarding what the cause of the issue may be and how to get the refrigerator back and functioning normally again.
Frigidaire refrigerator error code H1
Frigidaire refrigerators are also designed with their own error code system for this exact reason. If your Frigidaire refrigerator is displaying an “H1” error code, this is an indication that your refrigerator has exceeded the safe temperature threshold.
This means that the internal temperature sensor of your unit has picked up that the temperature inside the refrigerator is now above 55 degrees Fahrenheit, and an alarm will be activated, because this is not a cold enough temperature to safely store your food at.
While you can mute the alarm, the H1 error will not disappear and your refrigerator will not operate properly again until the internal temperature of your Frigidaire refrigerator is below the 55 degrees Fahrenheit mark again.
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In order to get the H1 error code cleared from your Frigidaire refrigerator you need to identify and fix the issue that is causing the temperature in your refrigerator to increase.
The most common cause for this is that a fridge door was not closed properly or is not sealing properly, but the H1 error is also commonly caused by a broken damper or compressor, which you will have to replace if they are not keeping your refrigerator cold enough.
Why an open door can cause a H1 error code in Frigidaire refrigerators
Your Frigidaire refrigerator is incredibly effective at maintaining a cool and safe internal temperature when it is working the way it should.
However, if you or someone in your household has accidentally left a door open or the refrigerator door did not seal properly when it was closed, the refrigerator will not have enough cooling power to maintain this colder temperature with the hotter air from outside flooding into the fridge through the open door.
This will cause the internal temperature to rise and once it reaches 55 degrees Fahrenheit, your refrigerator will display the H1 error code and sound its alarm.
To fix this, you simply need to ensure that all of the doors of your refrigerator are closed properly and have sealed properly. Wiping the doors’ seals down with a damp cloth can ensure that there are no particles preventing them from sealing properly.
Why a broken damper can cause the H1 error in Frigidaire refrigerators
The air damper of your refrigerator, which may also be referred to as the baffle or diffuser, is a device that controls the airflow from the evaporator into your Frigidaire refrigerator.
It is common for this damper to get stuck either in the open or closed position instead of opening and closing as needed to provide cool air for your refrigerator in order to keep it at a low temperature.
However, this will cause the temperature to increase and, in turn, the H1 error can occur. To access this damper, you need to remove the control panel of your refrigerator, which is why it is best to consult a professional for this task.
Why a broken compressor can cause the H1 error in Frigidaire refrigerators
The compressor controls the flow or refrigerant in your Frigidaire refrigerator. This refrigerant cools down the coils and absorbs latent heat from inside the appliance.
When this component is broken, your refrigerator will not be able to keep its temperature below 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent the H1 error code from appearing.
However, the compressor is an important part of your refrigerator, and it is best to leave repairs to such a critical component to the professionals.