If your Frigidaire refrigerator is not as cold as it should be, the defrost heater could be the problem. This part helps keep frost from forming around the evaporator coils. When it stops working, frost builds up and blocks airflow, which leads to temperature issues inside the fridge.
You can fix this by replacing the defrost heater yourself. The process is simple if you follow the right steps and take proper safety measures. Here is a guide to help bring your refrigerator back to normal.
What the Defrost Heater Does
Understanding the defrost heater’s function makes it easier to spot problems and handle repairs:
- It warms the evaporator coils at regular intervals to melt frost buildup
- It prevents ice from blocking airflow from the freezer to the fridge
- It helps keep internal temperatures stable by allowing proper air circulation
- It works with the defrost thermostat and control board to regulate cycles
- Without it, ice can trap cold air in the freezer and reduce cooling in the fridge compartment
What You’ll Need
- 1/4-inch nut driver
- Insulated work gloves
- Safety glasses (optional)
- Towel for catching any water
Safety Reminders
Before you begin, take the time to prepare your workspace and protect yourself:
- Turn off the refrigerator and unplug it. If needed, switch off the power at the breaker.
- Let the appliance cool down before working on it.
- Keep your hands and the work area completely dry.
- Clear the space around the refrigerator. Avoid clutter or anything that could cause you to trip.
- Use insulated gloves to avoid cuts from sharp metal edges.
- Do not touch any wires directly. Use tools with non-conductive handles if needed.
- Make sure the area is well lit so you can clearly see the parts you are working with.
- If the refrigerator has a water connection, shut off the water supply at the outlet.
- Have a towel ready to absorb any water that might drip out.
- Check your refrigerator’s user manual for specific guidance for your model.
How to Replace the Defrost Heater in a Frigidaire Refrigerator
Follow these steps to access, remove, and replace the defrost heater in your Frigidaire refrigerator.
Access the Defrost Heater
- Open the refrigerator door and remove all shelving.
- Unscrew and remove the shelving rails by taking out the ¼-inch screws.
- Remove the four ¼-inch screws that hold the back panel in place.
- Take off the back panel to reveal the evaporator.
Remove the Old Defrost Heater
- Locate the defrost heater at the bottom of the evaporator.
- Disconnect the wire connectors at the top of the evaporator.
- Remove the ¼-inch screw just above the evaporator.
- Pull out the heat shield and evaporator together.
- Slide the evaporator out from the heat shield.
- Release the straps at the bottom of the evaporator holding the old heater.
- Gently pull the evaporator forward from the bottom.
- Observe how the heater is positioned along the sides.
- Slide the heater out from the bottom of the evaporator.
Install the New Defrost Heater
- Slide the new defrost heater into place from the bottom of the evaporator.
- Lock the heater in place using the straps.
- Push the evaporator back into the heat shield.
- Push the heat shield and evaporator back into position.
- Reinstall the ¼-inch screw to secure the unit to the wall.
- Put the back panel in place and secure it with the four ¼-inch screws.
- Reattach the shelving rails with their screws.
- Reinstall the shelves and drawers.
Also Read: How to replace a GE freezer defrost heater WR51X10131
Tips for Better Fridge Performance After Repair
Once you’ve replaced the defrost heater, you can help your refrigerator work better with a few simple habits:
- Avoid opening the doors too frequently or leaving them open for long
- Keep the fridge and freezer compartments organized so air flows freely
- Clean the condenser coils at least twice a year
- Set the fridge temperature between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit
- Don’t overload the refrigerator, as this can block vents and reduce cooling
- Check the door seals for cracks or gaps to prevent cold air loss
- Leave some space behind the refrigerator so air can circulate around the condenser
Summing Up
A working defrost heater makes a big difference in how your Frigidaire refrigerator runs. If your fridge has been struggling to stay cool, this part might be the reason. Replacing it can fix the issue and help your appliance work like it should again. The steps may seem detailed, but once you understand what the heater does and follow each section carefully, the job becomes much easier.
After installing the new heater, don’t forget the small habits that help your fridge run better every day. Keeping air flowing freely, cleaning the coils, and checking for blocked vents all help keep the cold in and problems out. A little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your fridge reliable for years.