Display shows dF or similar defrost indication for an extended period, freezer warms up more than normal during defrost.
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.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety: Unplug the freezer before inspecting internal components. The defrost heater can be very hot immediately after a cycle.
- Power reset: Disconnect power for 15 minutes to exit any software-stuck defrost cycle. Reconnect and observe if normal cooling resumes.
- Check evaporator temperature: After several hours of operation, the evaporator should be cold and lightly frosted, not warm. If it remains warm, the heater may be stuck on.
- Inspect defrost relay on PCB: Access the main PCB and look for a stuck or burnt defrost relay/triac. Signs of overheating indicate a fault.
- Test defrost sensor: Verify that the defrost sensor/thermostat opens when warm, allowing the PCB to end the defrost cycle.
- Replace faulty parts: If the relay is welded closed or the sensor is not switching correctly, replace the main control board and/or defrost sensor/thermostat as appropriate.
Warning: Operating with a stuck-on defrost heater can overheat and damage the cabinet. If you suspect this condition, leave the freezer unplugged until repaired.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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