Jenn-Air Defrost Timer, Adaptive Defrost Control

The Whirlpool Defrost Timer is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool refrigerators. The defrost timer regulates the automatic defrost cycle, which prevents ice buildup on the evaporator coils in the freezer compartment by sending a signal to the defrost heater to turn on and melt any ice buildup on the coils. 

Causes of a bad defrost timer can include mechanical wear over time, electrical failures, or internal component damage. Prolonged usage and voltage spikes can also affect the timer's functionality.

Symptoms of a bad Defrost Timer include:

• Excessive frost buildup in the freezer compartment
• The refrigerator or freezer not maintaining the set temperatures
• Unusual noises coming from the appliance 
• The appliance running continuously without cycling off

This OEM Whirlpool part can also be used on Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore/Sears brand appliances.

This refrigerator defrost timer automatically starts and ends the defrost cycle to melt frost from the evaporator coils. Replacing a failed timer restores consistent cooling performance and helps prevent frost buildup that can restrict airflow.

• Controls the timed switch between cooling and defrost to keep evaporator coils clear of frost
• Common symptoms of failure: heavy frost on the evaporator or back panel, fresh food section too warm, unit runs constantly, or won't resume cooling after defrost
• Restores proper frost removal and airflow for stable temperatures
• Designed to match the original timer's function and wiring connections for applicable models

• Disconnect power before servicing; wear cut-resistant gloves
• Access location varies by model—often in the fresh food control housing or rear machine compartment
• Photograph/label wire positions and transfer them to the matching terminals on the new timer
• Reuse original mounting hardware and install in the same orientation as the original

This defrost timer controls the automatic defrost cycle in select refrigerators and freezers, switching between cooling and defrost to clear frost on the evaporator. It helps maintain stable temperatures and prevents heavy ice buildup and long run times. What it does:

• Alternates the system between cooling and defrost on a timed schedule
• Sends power to the defrost heater during defrost, then returns power to the compressor and fans
• Failure can cause heavy frost on the evaporator/back freezer wall
• May lead to warmer temperatures, constant running, short cycling, or no-cool if stuck in defrost

• 1 defrost timer

• Disconnect power before servicing
• Access location varies by model
• Note wire positions and transfer them one at a time to the new timer
• Mount securely in the same orientation as the original and verify normal cycling after power is restored

The defrost timer controls your refrigerator's automatic defrost cycle, periodically pausing cooling to power the defrost heater. Replacing a faulty timer restores proper defrosting to help prevent frost buildup, temperature swings, and excessive run time.

• Advances the system between cooling and defrost at set intervals
• Sends power to the defrost heater, then returns the unit to cooling
• Failure may cause heavy frost on evaporator coils and weak airflow
• Fresh food section may run warm while the freezer ices over
• Unit may run constantly, never defrost, or get stuck in defrost

• Disconnect power before servicing
• Location varies by model; access the timer (often in the control housing or rear compartment), note wire positions, and transfer one at a time
• Mount and secure the timer as originally installed; reuse existing bracket/fasteners
• After reassembly, restore power and verify the unit advances through cooling and defrost

Defrost timer that advances the refrigerator's defrost cycle at roughly six-hour intervals to help prevent excessive frost buildup and keep cooling consistent. Replaces a failed timer to restore regular defrost scheduling. What it does:

• Advances the defrost cycle so the heater can melt frost from the evaporator on a timed schedule.
• Helps prevent heavy ice buildup that can reduce airflow and cooling performance.
• Common symptoms of a failing timer: excessive frost or ice accumulation, compressor running constantly, or inconsistent temperatures.
• Works with mechanical defrost systems to alternate between cooling and defrost intervals.

• Disconnect power to the appliance before servicing to avoid electrical shock.
• Handle connectors and wiring carefully; ensure all terminals are fully seated.
• Mounting hardware and connector types can vary by model—retain original fasteners and note wiring positions before removal.

This Defrost Timer cycles the unit between cooling and automatic defrost. Replace it if your appliance won't defrost or stays stuck in defrost, causing frost buildup, warm temperatures, or intermittent/no cooling.

• Controls automatic defrost intervals by switching from cooling to defrost and back
• Supplies power to the defrost circuit/heater during the defrost portion of the cycle
• Common failure symptoms: heavy frost on the evaporator/back wall, warm fresh-food section, runs constantly with no defrost, or no cooling if stuck in defrost
• Stop advancing through cycles or advance intermittently

• Disconnect power before servicing; electrical components can hold live voltage
• Location varies by model: typically in the control housing inside the refrigerator or behind a rear/service panel
• Photograph/label wire positions and transfer connectors one at a time to the new timer
• Mount securely, restore power, and verify normal cooling/defrost operation

Kit, defrost timer (230 vac)