Dacor Refrigerator FF Error: Freezer fan fault
This dacor refrigerator error code ff guide explains what this fault means for your Dacor appliance and how to respond safely. What Error Code FF Means Error code FF on Dacor DRF36 and DRF42 French Door refrigerators indicates a freezer fan failure. The freezer compartment fan is responsible for circulating air across the evaporator coils […]
20%
DIY Fixable
From $250
Typical Repair Cost
60-120 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. FF indicates the freezer is not maintaining safe temperatures. Remove all frozen food immediately to a backup freezer to prevent spoilage.
Can I reset the code?
No. FF requires hardware correction. If ice obstruction was the cause, a defrost may resolve it. A failed motor must be replaced before the fault clears.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Stop if the freezer fan does not restart after a full manual defrost — motor replacement needed., Stop if you see burn marks or smell burning near the fan motor or its wiring..
Symptoms You May Notice
Freezer temperature rising above set point
The freezer compartment warms up noticeably despite the compressor operating, indicating air is not being moved through the evaporator coils.
FF displayed on control panel
The display shows FF with an alarm, distinguishing this from the PF (power failure) code.
Ice maker production stops
Without adequate freezer fan airflow, the ice maker zone does not reach freezing temperature and production halts.
Frost visible on freezer back wall
Without fan circulation, frost accumulates unevenly on the freezer rear wall rather than on the evaporator coils behind the panel.
Possible Causes
Freezer fan motor failure
The dual evaporator fan in the freezer compartment has seized or burned out, stopping cold air distribution.
DIY PossibleIce blocking the fan blade
A defrost system failure has allowed ice to accumulate around the fan blade, physically preventing rotation.
DIY PossibleControl board fan circuit fault
The board's motor drive circuit has failed, preventing the fan from receiving operating voltage even though the motor is intact.
Requires ProfessionalSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Open freezer and listen
Open the freezer, press the door switch manually to keep the fan circuit active, and listen for the fan motor. Silence confirms the fan is not running.
On Dacor French Door models, the freezer fan is behind the rear panel. A faint hum is normal; complete silence is not.
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2
Defrost to clear ice obstruction
Unplug the refrigerator for 24–48 hours with the freezer door open to melt any ice accumulation around the fan. After defrost, restore power and listen for the fan to resume.
Place absorbent towels in the freezer floor to capture melt water during the defrost.
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3
Test fan motor continuity
After unplugging, remove the freezer rear panel (typically 4 screws), unplug the fan motor connector, and test resistance across the motor terminals. OL (open circuit) means the motor has failed.
The freezer fan on Dacor DRF36/DRF42 uses a DC brushless motor — replace with an exact OEM part to maintain control board compatibility.
Tools required
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Fan motor is clear of ice and tests as an open circuit — motor replacement required.
- Fan motor tests good but does not spin when power is applied — board fan drive circuit failure.
- Repeated FF faults after motor replacement — defrost system repair needed to prevent recurrence.
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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