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Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Timer by Whirlpool

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Manufacturer Part
4.89 (64)
By: Whirlpool
Part Number: OEM18031701
Manufacturer Part Number: WP68233-3

This defrost timer controls the automatic defrost cycle in select refrigerators and freezers, switching between cooling and defrost to clear frost on the evaporator. It helps maintain stable temperatures and prevents heavy ice buildup and long run times. What it does:

  • Alternates the system between cooling and defrost on a timed schedule
  • Sends power to the defrost heater during defrost, then returns power to the compressor and fans
  • Failure can cause heavy frost on the evaporator/back freezer wall
  • May lead to warmer temperatures, constant running, short cycling, or no-cool if stuck in defrost
What's included:
  • 1 defrost timer
Install notes:
  • Disconnect power before servicing
  • Access location varies by model
  • Note wire positions and transfer them one at a time to the new timer
  • Mount securely in the same orientation as the original and verify normal cycling after power is restored

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Questions & Answers

For Whirlpool Defrost Timer (Part Number: OEM18031701)

1 Answer

Hello Will. Make sure the freezer is between 0° and 5°. You need to check and see if there is power going to the water valve when the icemaker cycles. If so, replace the water valve on the unit. If not, or the icemaker does not cycle, you will need to replace the icemaker on the unit. Also, check and make sure the fill tube on the unit is not frozen and clogged. If so, replace the water valve and thaw out the fill tube. You can test this with a multi-meter TJMA-DMT3. Here is a link on how to use a multi-meter. http://forum.appliancepartspros.com/oven-repair-including-ranges-cooktops/4810-how-check-continuity-ohmmeter.html

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1 Answer

John, The Letter at the end of the model number designates the color of the product W for White, B for Black, etc. The defrost timer WP68233-3 on your model refrigerator is located on the front bottom of the unit. First remove power to the refrigerator. Remove the kickplate grille on the front. On the center frame there should be two 1/4 inch hex head screws, Remove the screws and the timer and bracket can be removed and replaced.

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1 Answer

Hello Mark. No, if the timer is taking to long to defrost, you will need to order and replace the timer in the unit.

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1 Answer

Hello Jr., If the compressor is hot, the unit has a sealed system restriction and it will need the compressor, filter drier, evaporator coil, and the heat exchange assembly to correct the issue. If the compressor is cool, the unit has lost the Freon charge ort the compressor has a broken valve internally and this will require the replacement of the compressor and the filter drier after the leak is located and repaired.

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1 Answer

Hello Harry. The defrost heater and thermostat is located on the evaporator coils inside the freezer behind the back wall of the freezer.

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1 Answer

Mike, With the unit sticking in the defrost cycle this would be caused by a faulty defrost timer.

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1 Answer

Wendell, 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 Wendell. 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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