Update to howling noise from GE Profile Refrigerator

[tthrock]

I had (note the past tense ) an intermittent howling noise from our GE model GSH25JFTA CC. Over several months I had removed, defrosted, and dried the ice maker and the condenser fan to try to resolve the problem with no success.

I did a Google groups search and found this forum and grasped the concept of the faulty motor control board causing the fan to run at a speed that created the howling sound.

I called GE parts, explained the problem and the forum's info that the replacement would be free (a bluff) and received the response that the board was ~$80 + shipping, and no deal on the known problem free replacement scenario. The parts person said I could talk to Customer Relations, I said I would like to take that route, and she connected me.

A bit of a wait but made contact with Customer Relations. I thought I would take the strong approach, identifying my name, model, serial number and the problem, and that I felt STRONGLY that this is a known problem and in my opinion is a manufacturing defect and that I would like the replacement board free of charge.

The courteous rep identified that my serial number was 3+ years, confirmed my home address, and asked if there would be anything else GE could provide. I said no, thank you and have a great day.

To my surprise, the board arrived the next day (wow). I expected to receive it by slow boat, but next day was great.

I installed the board following the included installation sheet in 10 minutes (including vacuuming up the dust under the unit) and voila, the unit sounds like new.

I hope this approach works for everyone. If you can use a screwdriver, you can put the board in yourself, no need to schedule and wait for a technician.

Thank you General Electric for standing behind your products.

[carrielea22]

I am having the same howling program what forum did you refer to when you called GE? What was the cost of the board?

[farro]

No guarantee that the replacement board will work. GE has replaced the fan and motor twice on my 2 year old french door bottom freezer refrigerator, and recently replaced the board, with no success.

Now the extended warrantee people state that noise is not a reason for the refrigerator to be declared unrepairable even though GE is not able to repair it.

Does anyone have any suggestions re dealing with this situation?