How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the freezer. Place towels to catch melting ice and water.

Steps to correct defrost failure:

Manual defrost: Remove food to a backup freezer or cooler. Leave the door open and allow all ice to melt. Do not use knives or chisels.
Access evaporator: Remove the interior rear panel to expose the evaporator coil, defrost heater, and thermostat.
Test defrost thermostat: With the thermostat cold, check for continuity. Replace the defrost thermostat if open.
Test defrost heater: Measure resistance across the heater terminals. Replace the defrost heater if open.
Inspect wiring and connectors: Repair any burnt or broken wires in the defrost circuit.
Control board: If heater and thermostat are good, the main control board may not be initiating defrost and should be replaced.

Note: After repair, monitor for several weeks to ensure frost does not return.

Freezer runs continuously and forms heavy frost or ice on the back wall and shelves.

Possible Causes