Electrolux
Automatic Defrost System Failure
Heavy frost buildup on the back wall or on food packages; freezer requires frequent manual defrosting.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Failed defrost heater, Open defrost thermostat or thermal fuse, Faulty defrost sensor, Defective main control board defrost timer function
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the freezer before accessing the evaporator and electrical components.
- 1. Manually defrost: Remove food to another freezer, unplug the unit, and leave the door open until all ice melts. Use towels to catch water.
- 2. Access evaporator: Remove the rear interior panel to expose the evaporator, heater, and defrost thermostat.
- 3. Test defrost heater: Disconnect heater leads and measure resistance. Replace the heater if open.
- 4. Test defrost thermostat/fuse: While the evaporator is still cold, check continuity. Replace if open.
- 5. Check defrost sensor: Measure NTC sensor resistance and compare to spec. Replace if out of range.
- 6. Replace control board: If all defrost components test good, the control board may not be initiating defrost. Replace the main control board.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Defrost Heater Assembly
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