Display shows E18; ice maker stops; unit may not defrost properly and heavy ice accumulates on the evaporator.

Safety: Unplug the unit before accessing the evaporator and electrical components. The heater and surrounding metal can be hot immediately after operation.

Steps to resolve E18:

• Defrost manually: Allow the unit to thaw completely by leaving it unplugged with doors open. Protect the floor from water.
• Access defrost components: Remove the inner panel to expose the evaporator, defrost heater, and defrost thermostat.
• Test heater: Disconnect the heater leads and measure resistance with a multimeter. An open circuit indicates a failed heater; replace the defrost heater.
• Check defrost thermostat: Test continuity of the thermostat or thermal fuse at the specified temperature range. Replace if open when it should be closed.
• Inspect wiring and PCB: Look for burnt connectors or damaged wires. If heater and thermostat are good, the defrost relay or control PCB may be defective and require replacement.

Note: Incorrect defrost repair can lead to repeated icing and poor ice production; follow Vestfrost service data closely.