Freezer cold but fresh food section warm; ice buildup often visible on rear freezer panel.

Safety: Unplug the refrigerator before removing freezer panels or working near wiring.

• Check for frost: Look at the rear interior wall of the freezer. A thick, even layer of frost indicates the evaporator is iced over.
• Manual defrost: Remove food from the freezer, unplug the unit, and leave the door open until all ice melts (this may take several hours). Place towels to absorb water.
• Do not chip ice: Avoid using knives or sharp tools that can puncture the evaporator or liner.
• Inspect components: After defrosting, remove the rear panel and visually inspect the defrost heater and thermostat for damage or loose connections.
• Test heater and thermostat: With a multimeter, check continuity of the heater and defrost thermostat (when cold). Replace any open components with Fisher & Paykel-compatible parts.
• Monitor for recurrence: Reassemble, restore power, and monitor for several days. If frost returns, the control board may not be initiating defrost and should be checked by a technician.