Frigidaire Refrigerator SY EF Error: Freezer Fan Part (#242077705)
Quick Answer: The SY EF (System Evaporator Fan) error code on a Frigidaire or Electrolux refrigerator means the evaporator fan motor behind the back freezer wall is not spinning. In 90% of cases, either ice buildup is blocking the fan blades or the Evaporator Fan Motor (#242077705 / #5304530651) has burned out.
⚠️ Why Your Fridge Is Warm But Freezer Still Has Ice: The single Evaporator Fan (#242077705) in the freezer is what blows cold air up into the fresh food refrigerator section! When SY EF triggers, your fridge food spoils first while the freezer stays semi-cold.
#1 Most Common Fix: Frigidaire OEM Evaporator Fan Motor
Official OEM Part Number: #242077705
⏱️ Install Time: 20 Minutes (Behind rear inside freezer panel) | 💰 Avg Cost: $24.99 – $34.00 (Saves $300 service call)
Step 1: Free 2-Minute Reset & Test (Try This First)
Before ordering replacement parts, perform this quick reset sequence to rule out a temporary sensor trip:
- Open the freezer door and listen closely: when you press the door light switch with your finger, do you hear the fan whirring behind the back wall?
- Unplug the refrigerator for 12–24 hours with the freezer door open to melt any ice encasing the fan blades (keep towels on the floor).
- If SY EF returns after defrosting (or the fan squeals loudly before dying), replace the Evaporator Fan Motor (#242077705).
Step 2: 60-Second Symptom & Part Number Lookup Table
Match your exact Frigidaire SY EF symptom below to get the factory replacement part number:
| What You Are Seeing (Symptom) | Required OEM Part & Number | Difficulty & Cost | Direct Part Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Display flashes SY EF, fresh food compartment gets warm, or loud whining noise came from freezer Cause: Failed Evaporator Fan Motor |
Frigidaire Evaporator Fan Motor#242077705 |
Easy DIY (20 min inside freezer) Est: $26.99 |
Check Price on Amazon → |
| Evaporator coils freeze into a solid block of ice every 2 weeks, jamming the fan and causing SY EF Cause: Failed Defrost Bi-Metal Thermostat |
Frigidaire Defrost Thermostat#5303918214 |
Easy DIY (15 min) Est: $13.99 |
Check Price on Amazon → |
Frequently Asked Questions (Frigidaire SY EF)
Does part #5304530651 replace Frigidaire fan motor #242077705?
Yes, #5304530651 and #242077705 (along with FDQC18EL4F) are interchangeable OEM evaporator fan motor numbers for Frigidaire Gallery, Professional, and Kenmore 253 refrigerators.