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Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Timer (Refrigerator) by Whirlpool

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Manufacturer Part
4.89 (64)
By: Whirlpool
Part Number: OEM18031698
Manufacturer Part Number: WP68233-2

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
What's included: 1 defrost timer Installation notes:
  • 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

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Questions & Answers

For Whirlpool Defrost Timer (Refrigerator) (Part Number: OEM18031698)

1 Answer

Hello Patel. Look back by the compressor for a bracket with the timer mounted to it.

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1 Answer

Hello Steve. if you can turn the timer and start the unit back when it sticks, then replace the timer. If not, then you will need to replace the cold control in the unit.

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Shane for Model Number Maytag PSD2450GR

Over the past year there have been instances where all of the food in my freezer would begin to thaw out and I would notice ice buildup underneath the cover in the back. I then have to remove everything and wait for the ice to thaw out in order to resolve the issue. It would work fine for a few months and then I'd have to repeat the same process. Had an issue this past week with my food thawing out again. There was no ice buildup (just frost). Seems that it might have been on the defrost cycle for too long. I removed all of the food and then later on the refrigerator would start running again. Would this be a sign that the thermostat needs to be replaced or could this be another issue? Thanks for any assistance you can provide.

1 Answer

Hello Shane, The frost impacting the evaporator coils indicates a defrost failure. You will want to do a continuity check on the defrost heater and thermostat assembly. If there is no continuity then you will need to replace the defrost heater and thermostat assembly WP61006116. If there is continuity then you will need to replace the defrost timer WP68233-2.

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1 Answer

Jason, It doesn't sound like a defrost timer or heater. possibly a defrost thermostat, but not likely. It actually sounds like you have a clogged defrost drain tube and a block of ice in the drain pan. You'll need to remove the back wall of the freezer and clear the clog and ice in the drain pan. As for frost on the shelves and door, you could be spraying the defrost water, but check and make sure the dispenser door closes and seals, and the door gaskets seal against the front flange of the fridge. Good Luck.

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1 Answer

Hello Sam. You will need to remove the back wall inside the freezer and see if all the coils are frosted over. If so, test the defrost heater and thermostat WP61006116. They should read closed for continuity when cold. If they are good, you will need to replace the defrost timer WP68233-2. You can test this with a multi-meter TJMA-DMT3. Here is a link on how to use a multi-meter. Hope this helps.http://forum.appliancepartspros.com/oven-repair-including-ranges-cooktops/4810-how-check-continuity-ohmmeter.html

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1 Answer

Hello Eric. Check and see if the unit is sticking in defrost, by turning the timer when it is not cooling, and see if the unit comes on. If so, you will need to replace the defrost timer WP68233-2. Hope this helps.

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