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Frigidaire Refrigerator SY EF — Evaporator Fan Failure

Editorial & technical review
  • Written by ApplianceWorth Editorial Team
  • Technically reviewed by Victor — appliance technician
  • Last reviewed 2026-07-01
  • Applies to Frigidaire refrigerators
  • Confidence medium
  • Also displayed as SYEF
  • Sources Manufacturer service documentation and field-repair experience · Methodology · Report a correction

What this code means

The main control is not detecting normal evaporator-fan operation or feedback. Air circulation may be reduced even when the compressor is running.

Most likely causes

  • Ice or frost is blocking the evaporator fan blade
  • The evaporator fan motor has failed
  • A door-seal, drain or defrost problem caused recurring ice buildup
  • The fan harness, feedback circuit or main control is faulty

Safe checks for the owner

  1. Check actual freezer and refrigerator temperatures and protect food if they are rising.
  2. Listen for scraping, buzzing or no fan sound from the freezer area.
  3. Confirm doors close fully and packages are not blocking vents. Do not chip ice around hidden wiring or tubing.

Estimated U.S. repair cost

$180–$350, depending on model, access, parts availability and local labor.