Refrigerator displays dF; unit may run defrost too often or not enough, causing frost buildup or temperature swings.

Safety First: Unplug the refrigerator before removing interior panels. Avoid contact with sharp evaporator fins.

• 1. Inspect evaporator: Remove freezer drawers and rear panel. If the evaporator coil is encased in solid ice, the defrost system is not working.
• 2. Check defrost heater: Visually inspect the heater (usually at the bottom of the evaporator) for breaks or burn marks. If you have a multimeter, test for continuity; replace if open.
• 3. Check defrost thermostat/bi-metal: The thermostat is clipped to the evaporator tubing. When the coil is cold (below freezing), it should show continuity. Replace if it remains open when cold.
• 4. Inspect wiring: Check connectors from heater and thermostat back to the harness for burns or loose connections.
• 5. Control board: If heater and thermostat test good, the main control board may not be initiating defrost. Replacement of the board is typically required.
• 6. Temporary relief: Manually defrost by unplugging the unit and leaving doors open for several hours with towels to catch water. This restores airflow temporarily but does not fix the underlying issue.