Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Heater With Thermostat (Refrigerator) by Ge

This defrost heater and thermostat assembly melts frost from the evaporator and shuts off at the proper temperature during the defrost cycle, restoring airflow and helping the refrigerator maintain steady, reliable cooling performance.

• Heats the evaporator to clear frost/ice during the automatic defrost cycle
• Thermostat opens to terminate heat once a safe temperature is reached
• Helps restore air circulation to the fresh food section
• Common failure signs: heavy frost on the freezer back wall/evaporator, poor cooling or warm fridge, fan noise from ice contact, little or no water in the drain pan after "defrosts"

• Disconnect power before service; work on a fully de-energized appliance
• Access is typically behind the freezer's rear panel; remove shelves/ice components as needed
• Fully defrost before installing the new assembly to prevent damage and ensure proper fit
• Reinstall in the original locations; clamp the thermostat to the evaporator tubing and route wiring exactly as factory, away from sharp edges and moving parts