Skip to Content
  • time delivery images 2 Day Quick Delivery!
  • box-refresh images 365 Day Return Policy!
  • lovely images 15 million satisfied customers
  • boxes images Over 2.1 Million Parts In Stock
  • headphone imagesFree Tech Support!
  • google images Google Trusted Store

Customer Questions and Answers for Defrost Timer by Whirlpool

Best Seller
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

More
$108.74
Compare At:
$129.40
You Save:
$20.66

IN STOCK
Ships Tomorrow Guaranteed
Add to Cart

Questions & Answers

For Whirlpool Defrost Timer (Part Number: OEM18031701)

Rich for Model Number JTB2188AE Jenn Air Refrigerator

I have noticed over that last few days that the unit was not running and the freezer was starting to thaw. It did not seem that it was in the defrost cycle as the heater was not on or warm. The evaporator fan, compressor and condenser fan were all off. Looking at the schematic it looks like the temp control or defrost timer could interrupt this. How would I check the defrost timer and does the temp control have to be made to go into defrost??

1 Answer

Hello Rich. When the unit is off, you can turn the timer manually. If ti starts and runs, then the timer is sticking and will need to be replaced. If it does not, then most likely the temp control is bad and will need to be replaced in the unit.

Read More...
Mary for Model Number RSD2200EAE Maytag side by side w/o icemaker

Yesterday Freezer & Fridge not cool. Stuff on bottom of freezer colder than stuff on top. also noticed snow on back metal panel located inside the freezer. Cant remember how high or low the snow went but it wasnt ice. Behind and below fridge the condenser fan is working. Compressor is also working- the copper line to freezer progressively cooler as it feeds to freezer. I also turned off fridge using dial inside the fridge and turned back on the compressor and fan started back up.Sometime the compressor fan rubs but I think that is because I moved the fridge to access it and its not level. I unplugged the fridge last night and the defrost pan was full today. I plugged fridge back in at 8am and it appears to be working. put some ice trays in freezer and theyre frozen set at the E setting. Fridge is set at 7 (initial setting is 6) and it's cold but not very cold.Appliance person on phone says its the defrost heater $90 just to evaluate. if it is heater - total will be $250. I cant afford a new fridge and I hope you can assist me.

1 Answer

Hello Mary. 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

Read More...

1 Answer

Hello Bob, Most of these are mounted in the back, on the opposite side of the refrigerator from the water inlet valve. you will see the heads of the two screws that mount the timer and a hole in the middle of the two screws. The hole is where you reach through to advance the timer. If you remove the two screws, the timer is easily removed from behind the cabinet edge.

Read More...

1 Answer

Hello Jerry, Yes this could be a defrost timer issue if the defrost timer is not coming out of the defrost. Also listen to make sure that the evaporator fan is operating. If it is not operating then you would want to check for 120vac coming to it.

Read More...

1 Answer

Hello Marc. Yes, if there is a defrost problem, and the heater and the thermostat is bad, you will need to replace the defrost timer WP68233-3 on the unit. Hope this helps.

Read More...

1 Answer

Roberta, The defrost timer is a good possibility but it's a bit more common for the heater fail WP61002045 or a loose connection at the defrost thermostat or bad thermostat WP61005254 You'll need to remove the freezer back wall to access and check the heater, thermostat and wiring. Thanks and Good Luck.

Read More...

Have questions? Ask our pros!

Contact us in a way that is convenient for you

Call us 1-877-477-7278
Need Help? Chat with a Pro
Or ask a question by filling in the form

Share your thoughts with other customers

Ask a Question
  • boxes images Over 2.1 Million Parts In Stock
  • time delivery images 2 Day Quick Delivery!
  • box-refresh images 365 Day Return Policy!
  • headphone imagesFree Tech Support!
  • google images Google Trusted Store