KitchenAid Defrost Drain Frozen or Blocked

Thick sheet of ice forming on the bottom of the freezer compartment.

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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

Clogged defrost drain, Drain tube frozen, Misaligned drain trough, Food debris in drain opening

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the freezer before working inside. Do not use sharp tools to chip ice.

  • Step 1 – Remove bottom basket: Take out the lower basket or drawer to expose the ice sheet.
  • Step 2 – Melt ice: Use warm water and towels to melt and remove the ice. A plastic scraper can help break up softened ice.
  • Step 3 – Access drain: Remove the rear interior panel to reach the drain trough and opening.
  • Step 4 – Flush drain: Use warm water in a turkey baster to flush the drain until water flows freely into the drain pan below.

If the drain repeatedly freezes, a drain heater kit or further adjustment may be needed and is best installed by a technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Defrost Drain Tube
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