How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Do not attempt to bypass defrost safety devices. Unplug the freezer before accessing internal components.

Steps:

Determine if normal: Many Insignia freezers briefly display dF during a scheduled defrost. This should clear on its own within 20–40 minutes. Check the user manual for your model.
Monitor temperature: If the interior warms excessively or dF remains for hours, there may be a defrost system fault.
Check defrost heater: Access the evaporator and test the defrost heater for continuity. Replace if open.
Test defrost thermostat: With the evaporator cold, verify the thermostat is closed. Replace if it remains open when cold.
Control board: If heater and thermostat are good but the unit stays in defrost or never enters defrost, the main control board may be defective.

Tip: Occasional brief dF indications are normal; only troubleshoot if accompanied by cooling problems.

Display shows dF or DF; freezer may pause cooling during this time; sometimes accompanied by beeping.

Possible Causes