What is the most common problem with a GE refrigerator?
The most common problem we see with a GE side-by-side refrigerator like model GSS25GMHKCES is not cooling properly (fresh food warm, freezer warming, or temperatures swinging). Cooling issues often trace back to airflow, frost buildup from a defrost problem, or a fan or sensor issue.
- Fridge warm but freezer cold: restricted airflow, iced-over evaporator, or evaporator fan issue
- Both sections warm: condenser airflow problem, control issue, or sealed system concern
- Frost on the back wall of the freezer: defrost system problem (heater, thermostat, or control)
- Clicking, buzzing, sizzling, popping, gurgling: many of these are normal operating sounds during defrost and pressure equalization (check the sound list in the owner's manual)
- Water under the refrigerator: defrost drain or water line issue
- Ice maker or dispenser not working: filter restriction, frozen line, dispenser mechanism, or solenoid issue
- Confirm the controls are not set to OFF and allow about 30 minutes if the unit is in a defrost cycle.
- Make sure the refrigerator is fully plugged in; reset the breaker if needed.
- Check door closure and gasket seal; warm air leaks cause frost and poor cooling.
- Clean dust from the condenser area; poor heat release can raise temperatures.
- Listen for the evaporator fan in the freezer; no fan airflow usually means a cooling complaint will follow.
If basic checks do not restore normal temperatures, these model-matched parts are common fixes:
| Symptom | Common suspect part | Example part for GSS25GMHKCES |
|---|---|---|
| Frost buildup, weak airflow | Defrost heater or defrost thermostat | Refrigerator defrost heater WR51X10055, refrigerator defrost bi-metal thermostat WR50X10065 |
| Freezer cold, fridge warm | Evaporator fan not moving air | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WR60X10307 |
| Temps inaccurate or erratic | Temperature sensing issue | GE profile refrigerator temperature sensor WR55X10025 |
A refrigerator that is not cooling correctly can spoil food quickly and can also force the compressor and fans to run longer than normal. Catching airflow or defrost problems early helps prevent heavier repairs.
We recommend matching parts by the full model number GSS25GMHKCES and using the parts list for this model; you can also search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How to reset a GE refrigerator side by side?
To reset your GE GSS25GMHKCES side-by-side refrigerator, unplug it (or turn off the circuit breaker) for about 2 minutes, then restore power and allow the controls to reboot. This clears many control glitches and also exits showroom mode on this model.
- Power reset (most common): Unplug for 2 minutes, then plug back in.
- Breaker reset: Turn the refrigerator circuit breaker OFF for 2 minutes, then ON.
- Showroom mode reset: Unplug and plug back in (this is the documented exit step).
- After a reset: Give the refrigerator up to 24 hours to fully stabilize temperatures.
- Move food away from the air vents so airflow is not blocked.
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet (or switch the breaker OFF).
- Wait 2 minutes.
- Restore power.
- Set temperatures back to your normal settings and close both doors.
If the refrigerator still does not operate or cool after the reset, check these basics first:
- Make sure the power cord is fully seated in the outlet.
- Check the house fuse or reset the breaker.
- Confirm the temperature controls are not set to OFF.
- If it was recently powered on, allow 24 hours for full cool-down.
- If it seems to stop and start, remember it may be in a normal defrost cycle (about 30 minutes).
| Symptom after reset | Most likely cause | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| No lights, no fan sounds | No power to unit | Check outlet, breaker, cord seating |
| Runs but not cold yet | Normal pull-down time | Wait up to 24 hours |
| Stops for a while then restarts | Defrost cycle | Wait about 30 minutes |
| Display works but cooling is odd | Control glitch or airflow issue | Recheck settings, vents, door closure |
A reset reboots the main control and user interface so the refrigerator can resume normal cooling logic. It is also the quickest way to recover from a brief power interruption, a control lockup, or showroom mode behavior.
For model-specific control features and operating details, use the owner's manual. If you need replacement parts for this model (such as a GE refrigerator water filter XWFE or a refrigerator evaporator fan motor WR60X10307), order from the parts list for GSS25GMHKCES or search by model on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How long do GE side by side refrigerators last?
Most GE side-by-side refrigerators typically last about 12 to 15 years with normal home use and basic maintenance. For your GE GSS25GMHKCES, consistent temperatures, clean airflow, and timely part replacement do the most to reach the high end of that range; see the owner's manual for care and cleaning guidance.
- Condenser airflow and cleanliness (dust buildup makes the compressor work harder)
- Door seal condition and door alignment (warm air leaks increase run time)
- Defrost system health (prevents heavy frost that blocks airflow)
- Evaporator fan performance (moves cold air through the fresh food and freezer sections)
- Water filter and dispenser maintenance (reduces flow issues and leaks)
- Vacuum condenser area and keep vents clear.
- Keep doors closing fully; avoid propping doors open.
- Set stable temps and avoid frequent large adjustments.
- Replace the water filter on schedule.
- Address unusual noises, warming, or heavy frost early.
If cooling becomes inconsistent, these model-matched parts are often involved:
| Symptom | Common part to check | Example part for GSS25GMHKCES |
|---|---|---|
| Warm fridge/freezer, weak airflow | Evaporator fan motor | Refrigerator evaporator fan motor WR60X10307 |
| Frost buildup, warming over time | Defrost heater | Refrigerator defrost heater WR51X10055 |
| Poor water taste or slow dispensing | Water filter | GE refrigerator water filter XWFE |
A side-by-side refrigerator can run for many years, but once airflow, sealing, or defrost performance slips, the sealed system and compressor tend to run longer and hotter. Keeping airflow open and fixing small issues early is the simplest way to protect long-term reliability.
You can order replacement parts for GE GSS25GMHKCES from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





