Hotpoint HTS18GBSSS 18 cu ft Top-Freezer Refrigerator with Adjustable Wire Shelves MECH-01 Error Fix: Not Cooling — Compressor Won't Run

Error code MECH-01 on the Hotpoint HTS18GBSSS 18 cu ft Top-Freezer Refrigerator with Adjustable Wire Shelves means: Not Cooling — Compressor Won't Run. Both the refrigerator and freezer sections are warm and the compressor is not running — the most common cause on budget GE/Hotpoint refrigerators is a failed compressor start relay (the small device plugged onto the side of the compressor); remove it and shake it — if you hear a rattle inside, it has failed (approximately $15-25 part); the compressor overload protector (attached next to the relay) can also fail, cutting power to the compressor to prevent overheating; if both the relay and overload are good, check the compressor windings with a multimeter for continuity between all three pins; a seized compressor will hum loudly for a few seconds then click off as the overload trips

The most successful fix is "Test Compressor Windings and Replace Overload Protector or Compressor" (hard difficulty, ~90 minutes). Estimated DIY cost: $30-$60. HomeMD has 2 community-ranked fixes for this error.

This error is rated medium severity. It should be addressed soon, but your appliance may still function in a limited capacity.

Yes — the top-ranked community fix ("Test Compressor Windings and Replace Overload Protector or Compressor") is rated hard difficulty and takes about 90 minutes. Tools needed: Phillips screwdriver, Multimeter, Needle-nose pliers.

DIY cost: $30-$60. Professional repair typically costs $400-$700. Many homeowners save money by trying the top-ranked community fix first.

The Hotpoint HTS18GBSSS 18 cu ft Top-Freezer Refrigerator with Adjustable Wire Shelves has 8 other known error codes, including: MECH-02 (Frost/Ice Buildup in Freezer — Defrost Failure), MECH-03 (Water Leaking Inside or Onto Floor), MECH-04 (Loud Humming, Buzzing, or Clicking Noise), MECH-05 (Runs Constantly — Never Shuts Off), MECH-06 (Freezer Cold but Fresh Food Section Too Warm), and 3 more.

Error code MECH-01 also appears on 7 other Hotpoint models: HDA3600HWW 24 in Built-In Dishwasher with 48 dBA Noise Level and 5 Wash Cycles, HPS18BTHBB 18 cu ft Top Freezer Refrigerator with LED Lighting and Humidity-Controlled Crispers, HSS25GFTWW 25.3 cu ft Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Ice & Water Dispenser and LED Interior Lighting, HTW200ASKWW 3.5 cu ft Top Load Washer with Deep Water Wash and Dual Action Agitator, HTW240ASKWS 3.8 cu ft Top Load Washer with Deep Fill and Heavy Duty Agitator, HTX24EASKWS 7.0 cu ft Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry and Wrinkle Prevent Option, and 1 more. The fix may vary by model, so check each model's specific page for tailored repair steps.