Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Heater (Evaporator) by Whirlpool

This evaporator defrost heater melts frost from the freezer coils during the automatic defrost cycle to keep airflow unobstructed and temperatures stable. Replace it if frost quickly returns after manual defrost or cooling performance declines. What it does:

• Heats the evaporator at set intervals to clear frost/ice
• Restores proper airflow to maintain consistent cooling
• Common signs of failure include heavy frost on the rear freezer panel, weak airflow or warmer fresh food temps, longer run times, or the evaporator fan striking ice
• An open reading on a continuity test indicates a failed heater

• 1 evaporator defrost heater

• Disconnect power before servicing
• Access the heater behind the freezer's rear panel; it mounts at/under the evaporator
• Note wire routing and clip locations; transfer any reusable hardware from the original part
• Avoid bending the element or damaging evaporator fins; fully defrost ice before reassembly