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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)

Matt for Model Number bm20tbw

The evaporator froze up preventing air flow in to the refrigerator. The defrost thermostat tested bad so I replaced it. When I plugged the refrigerator back in the compressor did not come on. I manually advanced the defrost timer until it clicked. I did this couple of times and still nothing. I unplugged the refrigerator and waited a few minutes, then plugged it back in. I again advanced the defrost timer until it clicked and this time the compressor kicked on. Is this ok or do I have a bad defrost timer as well?

1 Answer

Hello Matt. Look for loose connections. If none is found, you will need to order and replace the defrost timer R0131577 in the unit.

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1 Answer

Phil, With no ice or frost build up on the freezer back wall, it's not likely a defrost timer or defrost issue. Based on the post information, the first thing to check is the "auto damper" control R0161050 behind the control panel in the back of the fridge compartment. The mechanical linkage or temperature bulb has failed and the damper door is not opening properly, if at all. Thanks and Good Luck

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Jean for Model Number ARS2364AW

I just ordered the Defrost Timer (AP4246797). It sounds like it is located in the back of the refrigerator next to the compressor. Can I use a regular screw driver for the hexagon screws to get the cover off. Is it on the left or right side in the back (facing the back of the refrigerator)? Are there any wires to connect. Will instructions be sent with the part? I have a small metal box about 6" long on the left side of the front of my refrigerator behind the plastic grill cover. Someone thought it was located in that box in the front. Do you need any special skill in installing the new timer? I have never done this before. Thanks.

1 Answer

Hello Jean. The defrost timer R0131577 is located in the front of the unit. You will need to remove the toe grill and the metal box it is in. Then unplug the wires going to it and plug into new timer. The refrigerator will need to be unplugged to do this repair. Hope this helps.

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1 Answer

Hi Robert. Check your house water supply pressure incoming to the unit. Is the hose kinked ? Is the fill tube clogged with ice? Have you reinstalled the bail arm completely in place. The freezer has to be at 0 degrees before the ice maker thermostat to call for ice. Level the ice maker internally front to back so all cube locations will fill. Let us know as so we can help further. Thank you.

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1 Answer

David, the first thing I would do, check some product temperatures. Get a pocket thermometer TJMA-PDT392B, plunge the end of the tool into a bag of frozen veggies, juice, or even ice cream. You're looking for a food temperature of 0 to 5 degrees (a 3 to 5 dgr temp. is recommended) and the temperature should be set at the mid range for at least 24 hours before testing. If the temperature range is within specification, your freezer is fine. If the temperature is more than a couple degrees off, we'll need to look for a problem in the evaporator fan or defrost system. Thanks and Good Luck.

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