Rivacold E2

What does Rivacold E2 mean?

E2 is a temperature-probe error on the controller fitted to the Rivacold unit — the sensor has failed open, shorted, or is reading out of range. Which probe E2 names depends on the controller: on the Carel easy thermostats it is the THIRD (condenser/product) probe error, while other controller families report E2 as a probe 2 / S2 (typically defrost/evaporator) failure — in that case the controller cannot read coil temperature and defrosts end on time only. Confirm the probe map for the controller actually fitted before swapping parts.

Symptoms

• Display shows E2 (or a flashing probe fault)
• Defrosts run to the time limit instead of terminating on temperature
• Coil icing or short-cycling of defrost; alarm relay/buzzer active

Common causes

• Failed or aged NTC evaporator/defrost probe
• Probe lead damaged, pinched in the coil area, or loose at the terminals
• Water/ice ingress or corrosion in the connector
• Probe reading outside the controller's valid range

Diagnostic steps

1. 01

   Confirm E2's probe assignment

   Check the fitted controller's manual to confirm E2 is the defrost/evaporator probe and locate its terminal.

2. 02

   Inspect the probe in the coil area

   Evaporator probes sit in a harsh, wet, cold location — check the lead for ice damage, pinching, and a secure terminal; reseat the connector.

3. 03

   Measure the NTC resistance

   Disconnect and measure the probe against the controller's resistance-vs-temperature table; an open or shorted value means replace it.

4. 04

   Replace and re-secure

   Fit the correct NTC probe, clip it back to the coil in its specified position, and verify defrost now terminates on temperature.

When to call a professional

If a new probe and wiring do not clear E2 or defrost still misbehaves, have a refrigeration technician verify the defrost parameters and the controller input.