Thick ice buildup on the back wall inside the freezer

Safety warning: Unplug the freezer before accessing the evaporator and defrost components. Use caution with hot water or hair dryers around electricity.

Steps to restore defrost:

• Manual defrost: Remove food, unplug the unit, and open the door. Allow ice to melt naturally or use a hair dryer on low to speed up, keeping it away from standing water.
• Access evaporator: Remove the rear interior panel to expose the evaporator coil and defrost heater assembly.
• Test defrost heater: Disconnect heater leads and measure resistance with a multimeter. Replace the GE defrost heater if open (no continuity).
• Test defrost thermostat: With the thermostat cold, check for continuity. If open when cold, replace the GE defrost thermostat (bi-metal).
• Check wiring: Inspect wires from the heater and thermostat back to the control board for breaks or burns.
• Evaluate control board: If heater and thermostat are good, the main control board may not be initiating defrost and will likely need replacement.

After repair: Reassemble panels, restore power, and monitor for several days to ensure frost does not return.