Defrost Thermostat

Mark for Model Number br22vw

Answer Hello Mark. You can test the heater and thermostat when they are cold. They should read closed for continuity. You can test these with a multi-meter TJMA-DM1. Hope this helps. 

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Ken for Model Number Amana TZ19QL

Answer Hello Ken. You will need to use hot water and blow it through the pipe to clear any blockage inside the pipe. 

Mickey for Model Number Amana BRD 18V 2S

Answer Hello Mickey, The open resistance is a bit beside the point. You see, when it opens, it is doing so because the evaporator compartment has reached 50°F or so and if the heater didn't cool down at this point, food would defrost and cause spoilage. Many defrost thermostats open to a high resistance to prevent the water from the melting frost from freezing on its' way to the defrost drain. It should read 0O resistance when cold so the heater will receive full voltage for the defrost cycle to proceed normally. The heating element resistance is normal also. 

Mat for Model Number 59669872990

Answer Mat, There should be no " trails off slowly" it should have an either "open" or "closed" circuit. With the thermostat out of the unit, and at room temp, your meter should indicate an "open" circuit. If you put the assembly into a glass of ice water, wait a couple of minutes, then test it, it should have a "closed" circuit. If you have a "trailing off" scenario, you'd have to presume the thermostat is faulty. Thanks 

David for Model Number DRBAW1210

Answer Hello David, Yes sir, unfortunately it will cost more to repair than it is worth as there are enough old parts on it that can fail that it is a much better investment to buy new than to fix the old one. The cost on this type repair can easily exceed $700.00 depending on the service company that completes the repair. You cannot legally repair a sealed system unless you hold a freon certification. 

David for Model Number DRB2101AW

Answer Hello David, The ice you noticed in the evaporator area should not form like this. When the system is running normally, the frost will cover the coils almost evenly. When there's an ice ball it points to a loss of freon. Since you have to be freon certified to perform this type of repair legally, it is usually not a financially feasible repair. Be aware also that when a unit has lost freon, it is against the law to "shoot" more in it without finding and correcting the leak. Otherwise it's considered to be the same as releasing freon directly into the atmosphere.