Refrigerator displays dF or defrost error; freezer may ice up and fresh food section warms.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before accessing the evaporator area. Water from melting ice can create slip and shock hazards.

Steps to address dF / defrost error:

• 1. Inspect for heavy frost: Remove freezer shelves and the rear interior panel. If the evaporator coil is encased in solid ice, the defrost system is not working.
• 2. Manually defrost: Use towels to catch water and a hair dryer on low to melt ice from the coil and surrounding area. Do not use sharp tools.
• 3. Test defrost heater: Disconnect the heater leads and measure resistance with a multimeter. An open circuit (OL) indicates a failed heater that must be replaced.
• 4. Check defrost thermostat/bi‑metal: While the thermostat is cold (below freezing), it should show continuity. If it is open when cold, replace it.
• 5. Inspect defrost sensor (if equipped): Some Frigidaire models use a thermistor for defrost control. Test its resistance against the tech sheet chart; replace if out of range.
• 6. Evaluate control board: If heater and thermostat/sensor test good, the main control board may not be initiating defrost and will need replacement.

After repair, reassemble the freezer, restore power, and monitor for normal frost pattern (light, even frost) over several days.