What the Error Code Means
Error code 33E generally means the refrigerator detected a temperature or sensor condition in the ice maker area.
It points to ice maker temperature monitoring rather than a confirmed single failure.
Common Symptoms You May Notice
- The ice maker stops producing ice or produces less ice than usual.
- Ice in the bin looks clumped or partially melted.
- The display shows 33E and the unit may beep.
Most Common Causes (From Least to Most Serious)
- Ice maker area is too warm: Frequent door openings or warm items near the ice maker can affect temperature readings.
- Airflow to the ice maker is reduced: Blocked vents can prevent cold air from reaching the ice maker area.
- Temperature sensing is outside the expected range: In some cases the refrigerator pauses when it cannot confirm normal ice maker temperature behavior.
Safe Things You Can Check Yourself
- Limit door openings for a few hours and avoid placing warm items near the ice maker.
- Rearrange items so vents near the ice maker are not blocked.
- Power cycle the refrigerator: unplug it for one minute, then plug it back in.
If at any point this feels unsafe or unclear, stop and contact a professional.
When to Stop and Call for Service
- The 33E code returns after airflow and temperature checks.
- Ice production does not resume or the freezer warms up.
- You notice burning smells, unusual noises, or repeated shutdowns.
Typical Repair Cost Range
$150-$450 is typical for professional diagnosis and repair of refrigerator ice maker issues, depending on the cause and parts involved.
Costs vary by region, model, and provider. Request an estimate before approving any repair.