GE Profile
Evaporator Frost Blockage / Defrost Failure
Freezer cold but fresh food section warm; ice buildup on back wall of freezer.
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Defrost heater failure, Defrost thermostat stuck open, Evaporator thermistor misreading, Main control board not initiating defrost
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator and avoid sharp tools when removing ice.
- Manual defrost: Remove freezer contents and rear panel. Allow ice to melt naturally or use a hair dryer on low, keeping it moving to avoid damage.
- Inspect heater and thermostat: Once clear, visually inspect the defrost heater and thermostat. Test both for continuity with a multimeter.
- Check thermistor: Ensure the evaporator thermistor is properly clipped to the coil and replace if corroded or out of spec.
- Reassemble and monitor: After replacing faulty parts, reassemble and allow 24 hours for temperatures to stabilize.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
Required Part
Defrost Heater
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