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Caution:
Please read our safety
information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Before
replacing the defrost heater, unplug the freezer to avoid
an electrical shock hazard.
The
defrost heater is located at the back of the freezer. It may
be necessary to remove obstructions such as the contents of
the freezer, freezer shelves, icemaker and the rear inside
panel of the freezer.
The rear
panel may be held in place by retainer clips or screws. Remove
the screws or depress the retainer clips with a small screwdriver.
There
are three primary types of defrost heater elements; exposed
metal rod, metal rod covered with aluminum tape or a wire
coil inside a glass tube. All three elements are tested in
the same way.
The heater
is connected by two wires. The wires are connected with slip
on connectors. Firmly pull the connectors off of the terminals
(do not pull on the wire). You may need to use a pair of needle-nose
pliers to remove the connectors. Inspect the connectors and
the terminals for corrosion. If the connectors are corroded
they should be replaced.
Depending
upon the type of defrost heater, it is held in place with
clips or some other method. Remove the old heater. If your
heater has a glass tube, do not touch the replacement with
your bare fingers. Skin oil from your fingers will cause the
heater to burn hot, resulting in damage to the heater and/or
your freezer. If you do touch it, clean with a clean cloth
or paper towel and rubbing alcohol.
Install
the new defrost heater, reconnect the wires, replace any access
panel you may have removed and plug in the freezer.
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