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Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Timer Kit by Whirlpool

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Manufacturer Part
4.89 (64)
By: Whirlpool
Part Number: OEM12740400
Manufacturer Part Number: R0131577

The Refrigerator Defrost Timer is an OEM Replacement Part designed to manage the automatic defrost system in Whirlpool freezers. Housed at the top inside of the appliance, this component shuts off the cooling system and activates the defrost heater. The timer operates at 120V 60Hz and activates for 33 minutes every 8 hours. The dial on the timer can be turned clockwise to advance it into and out of defrost.

Causes of a faulty Defrost Timer Kit can include electrical issues, mechanical wear and tear over time, or problems with the timer's internal components.

Symptoms of a bad Defrost Timer Kit include:

  • Freezer not defrosting properly, leading to excessive ice buildup
  • Refrigerator running constantly or not cooling effectively
  • Condensation or moisture issues inside the refrigerator
  • Error codes related to the defrost system

This OEM part is also compatible with Maytag, KitchenAid, Jenn-Air, Amana, Magic Chef, Admiral, Norge, Roper, and Kenmore models.

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Questions & Answers

For Whirlpool Defrost Timer Kit (Part Number: OEM12740400)

1 Answer

Ryan, You will want to check the defrost timer to make sure that the unit was not in defrost and stuck in defrost cycle. Since nothing is coming on, this would be the most common reason.

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1 Answer

Hello BigO! According to your model the replacement defrost timer is part number WR9X5230, which has been discontinued. We have a possible cross reference that may work with your product, part number is WP4391974. Hope this helps!

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1 Answer

George, If you take the kick plate off unit under the unit there will be the defrost timer. Turn the defrost until you hear a click. If the unit comes on then you need a defrost timer R0131577.

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1 Answer

Hello Kirk. The timer is located int he unit compartment in the bottom of the unit. Disconnect the power and remove the screws securing the timer. Then unplug the wires and remove the timer from the unit. Install the new timer in reverse order.

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1 Answer

Hello Kirk, There are not wiring instructions for the defrost timer kit. The unit should have a plug in connector on old timer and plugs in the same as on the new timer.

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1 Answer

Hello JP. You need to check and see if the condenser fan motor is running. If not, it will cause the issue you are having with the unit. If the fan motor is running, then you will need to check for a sealed system issue. You will need an HVAC tech for this repair.

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1 Answer

Hello PC7060 This units defrost is controlled by a defrost timer R0131577. If the timer is sticking this would cause the issue. Also check to make sure that condenser coils are clean and that the condenser fan motor is operational. These are also things that could cause the unit to not function properly.

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1 Answer

Hello Dan. In the model number you provided, the control board is part number WPW10503278 and is the defrost timer for the unit. If the defrost is not cycling properly, you will need to replace the control board.

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1 Answer

Hello Jim. It sounds like you may have a defrost problem with the unit. Check and see if there is any frost build up on the back wall of the freezer. If so, you will need to test the defrost heater and the defrost thermostat. They should read closed for continuity when cold. You can test this with a multi-meter TJMA-DMT3. I will include a link at the end to assist you how to use the multi-meter if needed. If both parts are good, you will need to replace the defrost timer. Once the problem is repaired, you will need to thaw out the ice on the coils before the unit will operate properly. http://forum.appliancepartspros.com/oven-repair-including-ranges-cooktops/4810-how-check-continuity-ohmmeter.html

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1 Answer

Hello Rob. Check for an even frost pattern on the evaporator coils. If none is there, you have a sealed system issue and will need an HVAC tech to repair the unit.

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