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Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Drain Heater- Probe by Whirlpool

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Manufacturer Part
4.89 (64)
By: Whirlpool
Part Number: OEM9359880
Manufacturer Part Number: 819043

The Defrost Drain Tube Heater Probe is an OEM replacement part for Whirlpool refrigerators. Located near the drainage tube in the refrigerator liner, this probe monitors and controls the defrost drain tube heater.

Causes of a bad defrost drain tube heater probe include cracked solder joints or wiring connections due to normal vibration over time. Without the proper functioning of this probe, the drain tube heater will not activate during defrost cycles.

Symptoms of a bad defrost drain tube heater probe include:

  • Accumulation of ice or water in the drain tube drainage area  
  • Inability to fully defrost and clear buildup from the drain tube
  • Error codes indicating heating element issues

This OEM Whirlpool 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 Drain Heater- Probe (Part Number: OEM9359880)

Jim Rush for Model Number ZIFS360NXALH

The drain tube constantly freezes up, causing water to freeze along bottom of freezer (lava flow) till it builds up towards door. Then it starts leaking onto floor. Drain tube has been cleaned by professional technician several times, so don't believe the tube has any obstructions. Is it possible to attach a heat probe, or other type of copper wire to a lower heat element and insert one end into the drain tube. Any problems with melting the drain tube? Is the heating element glass of metal ? Thanks.

1 Answer

Frederick, Yes the 819043 defrost heat probe will work in your top mount refrigerator. Don't forget to check the defrost drain tube with a flexible line(weed eater trim line works) and make sure the drain tube is aligned and seated in the defrost drain pan inside the compressor compartment. Thanks,

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1 Answer

David, more than likely the defrost drain tube [WP1108438] in the compressor section has a clog in it. If it is not cleaned out or replaced, then the defrost drain will continue to back up and cause this issue.

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1 Answer

Jimbones, This heat probe would be 4 1/2" length and about a 1/4" width and would go around a calrod heating element. This will not work if the element is a glass tube heater.

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Michael for Model Number ET1NHM

I have a Whirlpool ET1NHM and know that the heat probe 819043 is compatible with this Whirlpool fridge. Before I order, I have a couple of questions for clarification. On this model, 1. Should I use the metal tube insert? 2. How far down into the drain hole should the end of the probe go, for best results? I assume the further it can extend down into the hole, the better, as long as it does not touch any plastic parts down inside. 3. Does this model improve its drain performance with the insulation pads and does it need the insulation pads, and if so, where does a person mount them, specifically? What is the purpose of the insulation strips? Thank you. Michael

1 Answer

Michael, Yes, you should use the metal "tube" insert, it will transfer the heat more efficiently. The end of the heat probe should only drop inside the drain opening 3/8 to 1/4 in. and should not touch the sides of the opening. Any insulation or blocks would be to redirect the air up into the evaporator for more efficient cooling and air circulation. There are a few other things to check or do while you're working in the area, make sure the drain tube is clear all the way down to the defrost drip pan, make sure both doors close and seal properly, and make sure there's nothing obstructing or redirecting the air flow from the air tunnel.

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1 Answer

Brent, You would need to remove the icemaker to get the rear cover off and the probe will not touch the sides of the drain.

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