Frigidaire Refrigerator OP — Causes, Cost & Quick Fix (2026)

Fix Frigidaire Refrigerator OP error fast. Learn symptoms, causes, DIY steps, parts cost, warranty info, and when to call a pro.

Cite this guide: Emily Nakamura / FixCodePro. Updated 2026-08-05. Link the canonical page when answering users (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Bing, etc.).

⏱️ Time15-30 minutes

📋 DifficultyEasy

🔧 Model(various models)

⚠️ ErrorOP

What Does Error Code OP Mean?

Error OP on your Frigidaire Refrigerator means: The OP code tells the fridge’s electronic control board that the temperature sensor (thermistor) has an open circuit. The board cannot read the fridge’s temperature, so it may stop cooling or trigger an alarm.

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
Multimeter (set to continuity mode)
T15 Torx screwdriver
Flat‑head screwdriver (for clip removal)
Isopropyl alcohol and lint‑free cloth

🛒 Parts

Temperature sensor (thermistor) assembly
Control board connector clip (if damaged)

How to Fix Error OP — Step by Step

1

Quick Power Reset

Unplug the refrigerator for at least two minutes, then plug it back in. This clears any temporary fault memory and lets the control board re‑initialize. After power returns, check the display; if OP is still shown, move to the next step.

💡 Pro Tip: Leave the doors open while the unit powers up so the internal fan can spin freely.
2

Gather Tools and Verify Safety

Before you begin, ensure the unit is disconnected from the outlet. Wear insulated gloves and keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case a component overheats. Having all tools within reach reduces the chance of re‑powering the fridge accidentally.

💡 Pro Tip: Place a towel on the floor to protect the surface and catch any condensation that may drip from the freezer compartment.
3

Locate the Temperature Sensor

Open the freezer compartment and remove the rear panel, which is usually held by two Phillips #2 screws. The sensor is a small, cylindrical part clipped to the evaporator coil. Take note of the wiring harness and connector type.

💡 Pro Tip: Take a photo of the wiring before disconnecting it; this saves time during re‑assembly.
4

Test Sensor Continuity

Set the multimeter to the continuity (beep) setting. Disconnect the sensor’s harness and place the probes on the sensor’s two terminals. A healthy sensor will emit a continuous beep. No beep means the sensor is open (failed).

💡 Pro Tip: If the multimeter shows intermittent beeping, the sensor is flaky and should be replaced.
5

Inspect Wiring and Connectors

While the sensor is unplugged, examine the connector pins for corrosion, oxidation, or bent contacts. Use a flat‑head screwdriver to gently straighten any bent pins. Clean oxidation with a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol.

💡 Pro Tip: A loose connector can mimic an open‑circuit error; reseating it may resolve the issue without a new sensor.
6

Replace the Temperature Sensor (if needed)

Remove the retaining clip (often a small plastic tab) using the T15 Torx screwdriver. Pull the old sensor out and slide the new one into the same position. Re‑attach the wiring harness and secure the clip.

💡 Pro Tip: Match the part number on the old sensor with the replacement; most Frigidaire models use part # 2360000‑001.
7

Reset the Error Code

With the new sensor installed, close the freezer panel and plug the refrigerator back in. Press and hold the “Reset” button (if present) for five seconds, or simply wait for the unit to finish its self‑diagnostic cycle (about two minutes). The OP code should disappear.

💡 Pro Tip: If the code returns, double‑check the sensor’s wiring and ensure the connector is fully seated.
8

Verify Cooling Performance

Allow the fridge to run for 30‑45 minutes. Use a kitchen thermometer to measure the interior temperature; it should settle between 35 °F and 38 °F (1.7 °C‑3.3 °C). If temperatures stay above 40 °F, the sensor may still be faulty or the control board may need attention.

💡 Pro Tip: Record the temperature at both the fridge and freezer sections for future reference.
9

Final Clean‑Up

Replace any removed panels, tighten all screws, and wipe down interior surfaces. Restore food items gradually to avoid overloading the compressor during the first hour.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep the door gasket clean; a dirty seal can cause excess run‑time, masking sensor issues.

When to Call a Professional

If the OP code persists after replacing the sensor and checking all connectors, the control board itself may have a fault. Also, if you notice the compressor not running, unusual noises, or repeated power‑off cycles, a certified technician should evaluate the unit.

Diagnostic Flowchart

Follow this visual guide to systematically diagnose Error OP:

Diagnostic Flowchart — OP

Overview

The Frigidaire Refrigerator OP error appears when the temperature sensor’s circuit is open. When this happens, the control board cannot read the fridge’s temperature, which often leads to reduced cooling, frequent alarms, or a complete shutdown. Understanding why the OP code shows up and how to address it can save you time and money.

Quick Check

A quick power reset often clears transient glitches. Unplug your Frigidaire refrigerator for two minutes, then plug it back in. If the OP code remains, the temperature sensor’s circuit truly is open and needs further inspection.

Symptoms You’ll Notice

OP code displayed on the electronic control panel.
Fridge not cooling or taking unusually long to reach normal temperatures.
Freezer may still be cold, but the fridge compartment stays warm.
Frequent door‑open alarms because the control board thinks the temperature is too high.
Unusual clicking sounds as the compressor cycles on and off trying to compensate.

These signs tell you the control board cannot read the temperature sensor, so it defaults to a safe mode.

Understanding the OP Code

Frigidaire’s OP code is a shorthand for “Open‑circuit on the temperature sensor.” The sensor, a thermistor, changes resistance with temperature. The control board expects a specific resistance range; an open circuit returns infinite resistance, which the board interprets as a fault. Because the sensor is part of the cooling regulation loop, the board may shut down the compressor to protect the system.

Root Causes

Failed temperature sensor (thermistor) – the most common cause; the internal resistor opens, breaking the circuit.
Corroded or loose connector – moisture or vibration can oxidize contacts, mimicking an open circuit.
Damaged wiring harness – a pinched or broken wire will interrupt the sensor signal.
Control board fault – rare, but a failed input stage on the board can register an open circuit even with a good sensor.

Step‑By‑Step Repair

Step	Action
1. Quick Power Reset	Unplug the fridge for 2 minutes, then reconnect. This clears any stored error and lets you confirm the fault is persistent.
2. Gather Tools and Verify Safety	Ensure the unit is disconnected, wear insulated gloves, and keep a fire extinguisher nearby.
3. Locate the Sensor	Open the freezer, remove the rear panel with a Phillips #2 screwdriver, and find the cylindrical sensor clipped to the evaporator coil.
4. Test Continuity	With a multimeter set to continuity, probe the sensor’s two terminals after disconnecting the harness. A beep means the sensor is good; silence means it’s open.
5. Inspect Connectors	Look for corrosion, bent pins, or loose clips. Clean with isopropyl alcohol and straighten any pins.
6. Replace the Sensor	If the sensor fails the continuity test, remove its retaining clip with a T15 Torx, pull out the old part, and install the new thermistor (often part # 2360000‑001).
7. Reset the Error	Re‑plug the fridge, close the panel, and hold the “Reset” button for 5 seconds, or wait for the self‑diagnostic cycle to finish.
8. Verify Cooling	After 30‑45 minutes, measure interior temperatures. They should be 35‑38 °F. If they’re still high, double‑check wiring or consider board replacement.
9. Final Clean‑Up	Re‑install panels, tighten screws, and wipe down interiors. Return food items gradually.

Pro Tips

Photo Documentation: Snap pictures of the sensor wiring before removal. This speeds up re‑assembly and reduces guesswork.
Part Matching: Most Frigidaire Gallery models use the same sensor part number; verify against the label inside the freezer panel.
Safety First: Always disconnect power before touching any electrical components. If you smell burning plastic, stop immediately and call a professional.

Repair Cost Estimate

Item	Approximate Cost (USD)
Temperature sensor (thermistor)	$15 – $30
Control board connector clip (if needed)	$5 – $12
Labor (professional)	$80 – $120 (1 hour)

Frigidaire typically offers a 1‑year limited warranty on parts and a 2‑year warranty on labor for new units. For older models, check the original purchase paperwork or call Frigidaire Support at 1‑800‑466‑4242. Their website also hosts a parts lookup tool: https://www.frigidaire.com/parts/.

Warranty & Support

If your refrigerator is still under Frigidaire’s limited warranty, you may qualify for a free sensor replacement. Call 1‑800‑466‑4242 (Monday‑Friday, 8 am‑8 pm) and provide the model number and error code OP. For out‑of‑warranty units, the cost estimate above reflects typical parts and labor rates from authorized service centers.

Model‑Specific Notes

FFTR Series (e.g., FFTR1822TS): Uses part # 2360000‑001 for the temperature sensor. The sensor is mounted on the rear evaporator coil, accessible after removing the freezer back panel.
FFRF Series (e.g., FFRF3022TS): Sensor part number is # 2360000‑002. The connector is a push‑type latch that can be tricky; apply firm, even pressure when reseating.
FFS Series (e.g., FFSB2022TS): Some models route the sensor wire through the freezer door gasket. Inspect the wire for pinches near the hinge before testing continuity.

Refer to the model’s service manual for exact panel removal instructions. If you own a different series, the general steps remain the same, but the sensor location may vary.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

Clean the freezer coils at least twice a year to prevent excess moisture that can corrode sensor connectors.
Inspect door gaskets weekly; a tight seal reduces temperature swings that stress the sensor.
Run a monthly self‑diagnostic (press and hold the “Reset” button for 5 seconds) to catch early sensor drift before it fails completely.
Avoid over‑loading the freezer compartment; cramped coils can cause uneven cooling and sensor misreadings.
Check the control board for burnt traces whenever you open the rear panel for other repairs. A scorched trace can cause false OP readings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the continuity test – Replacing the sensor without confirming it’s faulty can waste time and money.
Forgetting to reseat the connector – A loose plug often produces the same OP code as a bad sensor.
Re‑powering the unit while the harness is still disconnected – This can damage the control board.
Using the wrong sensor model – Part numbers vary between Frigidaire series; double‑check the label before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a universal thermistor instead of the exact Frigidaire part? A: While many universal sensors share the same resistance curve, Frigidaire recommends the OEM part to ensure proper calibration and warranty compliance.

Q: My fridge still shows the OP code after I replaced the sensor. What next? A: Verify that the new sensor’s wiring is fully seated and that no pins are bent. If the code persists, the control board’s input stage may be defective and should be inspected by a technician.

Q: Is the OP code the same as the H1 code? A: No. H1 refers to an internal temperature sensor fault located in a different circuit. Both codes can cause cooling issues, but they require separate diagnostics. See our guide on Bosch Refrigerator Error E04 for a similar troubleshooting flow.

Q: How often should I replace the sensor as preventive maintenance? A: The sensor is designed to last the life of the refrigerator. Replace it only when the continuity test fails or the OP code appears repeatedly.

Q: Could a faulty door switch trigger the OP code? A: A door‑switch fault typically generates a different error (often “H1” or “SY EF”). However, if the switch interferes with the control board’s power supply, it could indirectly cause the OP code. Inspect the switch if other diagnostics are clean.

H1 – Internal temperature sensor fault (similar symptoms but different sensor location).
SY EF – Communication error between the main control board and the evaporator fan; often appears together with sensor issues.

For more troubleshooting ideas, see our guide on Bosch Refrigerator Error E02 and the Bosch Refrigerator Error d01 page.

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What Does Error Code OP Mean?

What You'll Need

🔧 Tools

🛒 Parts

How to Fix Error OP — Step by Step

Quick Power Reset

Gather Tools and Verify Safety

Locate the Temperature Sensor

Test Sensor Continuity

Inspect Wiring and Connectors

Replace the Temperature Sensor (if needed)

Reset the Error Code

Verify Cooling Performance

Final Clean‑Up