Freezer cold but fresh food section warm; ice forming on back wall of freezer or fresh food evaporator cover.

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before removing panels or testing components. Water from melting ice can make floors slippery; use towels.

Step 1 – Confirm frost pattern:

• Remove freezer drawers and inspect the rear panel for heavy frost.
• If the panel is completely frosted over, airflow is blocked by ice.

Step 2 – Perform a manual defrost:

• Unplug the unit and leave doors open for 24–48 hours to melt all ice.
• Use towels to collect water; do not chip ice with sharp tools.

Step 3 – Access and test defrost components:

• Remove the rear freezer panel to expose the evaporator coil.
• Locate and test the defrost heater and defrost thermostat for continuity.
• Replace any open components.

Step 4 – Check defrost thermistor and control:

• Test the evaporator thermistor resistance at known temperatures.
• If heater, thermostat, and thermistor are good, the main control board may be failing to initiate defrost and may need replacement.

When to call a technician: If frost returns within a week after manual defrost, or if you are not comfortable testing components, schedule professional service.