Error Code 81
Compressor failed to start — possible wiring short or inverter fault
Critical
Stop using immediately - risk of damage or safety issue
Also displayed as: Error 81
What This Means
Short between compressor terminals U, V, or W; IPM supply voltage below 13.5V; Short between IPM pins #1 through #33; Compressor winding failure; Refrigeration cycle blockage
What actually causes this:
The compressor could not start, usually due to an electrical short in the compressor windings or a problem with the inverter circuit.
First Thing to Check
Listen — if the compressor hums briefly then stops, or is completely silent when the fridge should be cooling, this error is active.
Parts Involved
How to Fix
- 1
Check for short between compressor terminals at CN102
- 2
Check IPM voltage — must be above 13.5V DC
- 3
Check for shorts between IPM pins #1 through #26
- 4
Inspect compressor and refrigeration cycle
- 5
LED blinks 1 second on, 2 seconds off — count blink frequency for fault type
Other Error Codes for RF23M8590SG
Humidity sensor in the fridge compartment has failed
Ice bucket compartment heater has an open or short circuit
Mid drawer damper heater has an open or short circuit
Auto-fill water tank has detected an overflow
Refrigerator defrost sensor has failed or disconnected
Freezer defrost sensor has failed or lost connection
Freezer temperature sensor has failed or lost connection
Ambient room temperature sensor has failed