Thermistor
Common temperature-sensing fault part. Confirm resistance range and connector.
Follett Ice Machine Error Code E1 — What It Means
Follett error code E1 means ice-making fault — the control board has detected that the ice-making process failed to complete normally within the expected parameters. On Follett Horizon Elite and 7/15/25/50 Series nugget and cube ice machines, E1 is a general fault that indicates the refrigeration or ice-forming system is not operating correctly. The machine will shut down and display E1. Unlike some manufacturer codes that precisely identify a single component, Follett E1 requires checking the refrigeration system, the auger/evaporator, and the water supply to isolate the specific failure.
Common Causes
- Auger motor overload or jam — Follett nugget ice machines use a rotating auger inside the evaporator cylinder. If the auger seizes (from a bearing failure, ice bridging, or debris), the motor overloads and E1 follows.
- Low refrigerant charge — Insufficient refrigerant means the evaporator cylinder doesn’t reach proper freeze temperature, and the auger can’t form ice. The machine runs but produces no ice until E1 trips.
- No water supply — Follett machines require a continuous water supply at adequate pressure (20–80 PSI). A closed water valve, failed water inlet solenoid, or clogged water filter stops ice production.
- High ambient temperature — Operating above the maximum ambient rating (typically 100°F) pushes the refrigeration system past its heat rejection capacity and prevents the evaporator from reaching ice-forming temperature.
Step-by-Step Fix
- Check water supply — Confirm the water shutoff valve is open and that water is reaching the machine. Check the inlet water filter/screen for sediment blockage. Measure inlet water pressure — should be 20–80 PSI.
- Check for auger jam — Power off the machine and remove the ice chute/spout cover. If ice is bridged or backed up in the chute, clear it. On Follett machines, the auger can be temporarily freed by allowing the evaporator to warm slightly (power off 15 minutes), then restarting.
- Clean the condenser — For air-cooled models, clean the condenser coils and confirm the fan is running. A fouled condenser contributes to E1 in warm ambient conditions.
- Check ambient temperature — Measure the temperature at the machine’s air intake. If it exceeds 95°F, improve ventilation before doing anything else.
- Reset the system — Press the power switch Off, wait 30 seconds, and restore power. Observe the machine through its first ice-making cycle. Normal Follett nugget machines begin extruding ice within 15–20 minutes of startup.
Parts Often Needed
| Part | Notes |
|---|---|
| Auger bearing kit | Follett part number is model-specific; Horizon Elite uses a different kit than older 7 Series |
| Water inlet valve (solenoid) | Replace if valve fails to open with power applied |
| Condenser fan motor | Replace if fan is inoperative or running below speed |
| Water filter cartridge | Replace at 6-month intervals or at first E1 if filter hasn’t been serviced |
Need Replacement Parts?
Before ordering, match the ice-machine part to the model number, electrical rating, and failure symptom. Check current prices on Amazon - prices and availability change frequently.
When to Call a Pro
Auger removal and bearing replacement inside the evaporator cylinder requires proper tools and refrigeration system recovery if refrigerant needs to be removed. An EPA 608-certified Follett service technician should handle any work inside the refrigerated section.
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