⚠️ Safety Warning: Appliance repair involves electricity, gas, and moving parts. Always disconnect power before working on any appliance.
Error Code: Refrigerator Difficulty: Moderate
Problem: Defrost system fault – defrost cycle not terminating properly indicating failed defrost thermostat or heater
How to Fix Refrigerator Error
- Initiate forced defrost via service mode: Press Door Alarm + Freezer Down 3 sec, then press Freezer Up until ‘dF’ displays.
- Monitor evaporator coils – should begin defrosting within 2 minutes (water dripping into drain pan).
- After 25 minutes, defrost should terminate automatically. If not terminating:
- Unplug unit and access evaporator compartment.
- Locate defrost thermostat clipped to evaporator tubing – test continuity: should OPEN above 45°F. If stays closed, replace thermostat WPW
- Test defrost heater continuity: should read 20-50Ω. Open heater requires replacement.
- If both components test good, main control board W10868991 has failed defrost timer circuit – replace board.
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Recommended Replacement Part
Still Not Working?
If the replacement part didn’t fix the issue, you may have a wiring problem or main board failure.
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Expert: Mike Sullivan
EPA Section 608 Certified Technician with 18+ years experience.
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