Your GE refrigerator may be making odd noises or struggling to keep food cold. These symptoms can indicate a failing damper and fan assembly, the part that moves cold air through the fridge to maintain the right temperature.
This guide will walk you through what the assembly does, common signs of failure, the tools and parts you will need, and important safety steps before starting your repair.
What the Damper and Fan Assembly Does
The damper and fan assembly pushes cold air from the evaporator into the lower drawers of the fridge to keep produce and other items fresh. It contains moving parts such as flaps and motors that can wear out over time.
When the assembly begins to fail, you might notice:
- Unusual noises coming from the bottom of the fridge
- Rising temperatures in the lower drawers that cause food to spoil
- Weak or no airflow from the vents
How to Identify a Failing Damper and Fan Assembly
Some refrigerator issues can be caused by other components, so it helps to confirm the problem before ordering parts. Look for:
- Persistent unusual noises even after defrosting the unit
- Lower drawers that remain warm while the rest of the fridge stays cold
- Weak airflow even when the fan motor is running
- Damper flap that remains stuck open or closed
- Visible damage to the assembly such as broken blades or cracked housing
- No change in airflow after adjusting temperature controls
Common Causes of Assembly Failure
The damper and fan assembly can wear out from normal use, but certain factors may speed up the process:
- Accumulation of dust, lint, or debris around the fan motor
- Frequent overloading of drawers, which restricts airflow
- Moisture buildup leading to ice formation around the moving parts
- Electrical surges damaging the motor
- Plastic components becoming brittle with age or from extreme temperature shifts
- Insects or pests entering the airflow path and obstructing movement
What You Will Need
- New damper and fan assembly (WR60X23104) – Order the part made specifically for your GE refrigerator model
- Quarter-inch nut driver for removing and installing screws
- Putty knife for prying off covers and panels
- Utility knife for cutting adhesive and trimming insulation
- Work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges
- Small container or tray to hold screws and other small parts
Safety Steps
Even though replacing the damper and fan assembly is straightforward, safety must come first.
- Unplug the refrigerator before beginning any work
- Be careful around sharp sheet metal and plastic edges. Wear gloves and take your time to avoid cuts
- Handle wiring carefully. Avoid pulling on cords and take note of all connections so they can be reattached correctly
How to Replace a GE Fridge Damper and Fan Assembly
Here are the steps to remove the old damper and fan assembly, install the new one, and reassemble your refrigerator.
Preparation
- Unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet.
- Open both refrigerator doors fully.
Remove Interior Components
- Remove the crisper drawers by pulling them out, lifting them, and sliding them free.
- Remove the crisper support frame carefully to avoid breaking the glass.
- Lift out the glass shelves from the inner doors and set them aside.
- Remove the deli drawer cover by taking out the screws, disconnecting the plug, and sliding it out.
- Pull the deli drawer out slightly and remove the side portions of the cover.
- Fully remove the deli drawer from its tracks.
- Remove the left-side shelf and drawer support.
Access the Damper and Fan Assembly
- Use a putty knife to detach the cover box over the fan housing.
- Remove the screws holding the evaporator cover.
- Disconnect the plug and take off the evaporator cover.
- Use a utility knife to carefully cut through the foam seal on the evaporator cover.
Remove the Old Assembly
- Pull out the old damper and fan assembly.
- Compare the old assembly to the new replacement part to confirm compatibility.
Install the New Assembly
- Remove the foam insulation block from the new part.
- Peel off the adhesive backing from the new assembly.
- Feed the wiring harness through the slots in the housing.
- Place the foam insulation on top of the assembly.
- Install the new damper assembly into the housing.
- Tuck the wiring into the groove.
Reassemble the Refrigerator
- Reinstall the evaporator cover and reconnect the plug.
- Secure the evaporator cover with screws.
- Reattach the cover box using the putty knife to snap it in place.
- Reinstall the left-side shelf and secure it with a screw.
- Slide the deli drawer fully back into place.
- Replace the deli drawer cover pieces and reconnect the plug.
- Put the glass shelves, crisper drawers, and support frame back into position.
- Close both refrigerator doors.
- Plug the refrigerator back in and allow it to run for a few hours to verify proper operation.
Preventive Maintenance Tips
While the assembly will eventually wear out, you can help it last longer with regular care:
- Clean the refrigerator coils at least twice a year to reduce strain on the cooling system
- Avoid blocking vents with large containers or bags
- Keep drawer contents at recommended levels so air can circulate freely
- Check for ice buildup around the damper area and defrost when needed
- Wipe away condensation promptly to prevent mold and corrosion
- Use a surge protector to reduce the risk of electrical damage
The Takeaway
A good damper and fan assembly keeps your GE refrigerator cooling evenly and your food fresh. When it stops working, you can replace it yourself and get the fridge back to normal without waiting for a service call. The job is straightforward if you have the right tools, follow the steps, and keep safety in mind. After installing the new assembly, let the fridge run for a few hours and check that every section is staying cool. With regular cleaning and a few simple care habits, you can help the new part last longer and avoid the same problem in the future.