Whirlpool Refrigerator HI Error: High temperature warning
What Is the Whirlpool Refrigerator HI Error Code? The HI error code is a temperature alert displayed on Whirlpool Side-by-Side (WRS325SDHZ, WRS571CIHZ) and French Door (WRF535SWHZ) refrigerators when an internal sensor detects temperatures that exceed the safe threshold — typically 55 °F (13 °C) in the fresh food section or 26 °F (-3 °C) in […]
Some Steps
DIY Fixable
from $250
Typical Repair Cost
1-2 hours
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
Maybe. Do not assume food is safe. Evaluate all perishables and address the root cause before continuing to use the unit.
Can I reset the code?
Yes. Press any display button to dismiss HI once the temperature has returned to the safe range and the cause has been resolved.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Freezer temperature is above 32 °F (0 °C) and frozen goods are thawing., HI returns within one hour of being cleared with no obvious environmental cause..
Symptoms You May Notice
Food spoiling faster than normal
Milk, produce, and leftovers deteriorate more quickly because the compartment temperature has risen above the safe range.
Ice cream soft or melted
Frozen desserts in the freezer section feel soft or have refrozen into an uneven texture, indicating elevated temperatures.
Warm air felt inside compartment
Opening the refrigerator door reveals noticeably warm air instead of the expected cool draft.
Compressor not cycling off
The compressor runs without stopping as the system attempts to bring temperatures down but cannot reach the set point.
Possible Causes
Door left open or failed door gasket
Warm, moist air entering the cabinet raises internal temperatures and triggers the HI alert within minutes.
DIY PossibleBlocked or dirty condenser coils
Dust and debris on the condenser coils restrict heat dissipation, forcing temperatures to rise inside the refrigerator.
DIY PossibleEvaporator fan motor failure
Without the evaporator fan circulating cold air, both compartments warm rapidly even when the compressor is running.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
-
1
Verify doors are fully closed and sealed
Close all doors firmly and run a dollar-bill test on the gasket: place a bill between the door and cabinet, close the door, and pull — you should feel resistance all the way around.
A torn gasket on WRS Side-by-Side models can often be replaced without tools using a push-in gasket.
-
2
Clean the condenser coils
Unplug the refrigerator, remove the base grille, and use a condenser coil brush or vacuum with a crevice tool to remove dust from the coils and fan blade.
Whirlpool recommends cleaning condenser coils every 6–12 months for optimal efficiency.
Tools required -
3
Listen for evaporator fan operation
Open the freezer door and hold the door switch closed by hand. You should hear the evaporator fan running. Silence indicates a fan motor issue.
The evaporator fan is behind the rear panel inside the freezer compartment.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Evaporator fan is confirmed not running when the door switch is manually engaged.
- Temperature sensor reading is erratic or does not change as the compartment cools.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
Refrigerator Repair Service Schedule Appointment