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Kenmore Refrigerator F3 / r3 Error Code
Defrost heater failure on Kenmore refrigerators.
KenmoreAll Kenmore refrigerator codes
F3 means the freezer defrost heater has failed and r3 the refrigerator defrost heater. The heater melts frost off the cooling coil at intervals; when it stops working, ice builds up and airflow drops.
Compatible models
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer models with a 111 prefix, read through the diagnostic mode.
Also shown as
On 795-prefix models a defrost that doesn't warm the coil shows as F dH or r dH.
Difficulty
Start with the safe checks below; a worn part may need replacing.
Not sure you are reading the code right? See how to read Kenmore refrigerator codes.
How to fix Kenmore F3 / r3
Check the coil cover for frost
Look at the back wall of the compartment the code points to. Heavy white frost or ice in the vents matches a heater that isn't working.
Melt the ice by hand
Unplug the fridge, empty it into coolers and leave the doors open on towels until everything has melted. It's slow, but heat and tools can damage the coil.
Watch for frost returning
Once it's running again, check the back panel over several days. Fresh buildup confirms the heater circuit still needs fixing.
When to call a technician
Sears PartsDirect's fix is to inspect the heater wiring, repair any damage, and replace the heater if the wiring is fine. That means removing inner panels and handling wiring, so most homeowners hand it to a technician.
Parts linked to F3 / r3
These are the parts most often behind this code. Tap one to see what it does and the signs it is failing.
Order parts by your full model number so they fit.
Frequently asked questions
Which Kenmore models show the F3 / r3 code?
Kenmore Trio bottom-freezer models with a 111 prefix, read through the diagnostic mode.
Can I fix Kenmore F3 / r3 myself?
Often. The first steps above are safe checks a homeowner can do. If they don't clear F3 / r3, the cause is likely a worn part that needs replacing.
Other Kenmore refrigerator codes
- Er FFFreezer evaporator fan fault
- Er IFIce compartment fan has failed
- Er CFCondenser fan motor problem
- Er COBoards aren't communicating
- Er FS / Er rSFreezer or refrigerator temperature sensor fault
- F dH / r dHDefrost didn't warm the coil enough
- F dS / r dSDefrost sensor fault
- Er IS / Er ItIce maker sensor or ice maker fault
- Er gFWater flow meter error
- dAir damper is stuck
- CCompartment temperature sensor failure
- CFControl board and user interface lost contact
- OP / SHSensor circuit reads open or shorted
- SY EFFreezer fan circuit has failed
- SY CE / SY CFControl board and door interface out of contact
- C1Sealed refrigerant system failure
- dr / dFDoor open over an hour or bad door switch
- ESDispenser failure, often a stuck button
- d2Forced defrost is running
Last reviewed 2026-10-21. Codes and steps can vary by model; check your owner's manual.