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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)

Joe for Model Number CTB1925GR

Refrigerator and freezer were both warm. Cleaned out bottom back of dust, ordered and replaced the thermostat. Refrigerator and freezer are now cold, but the compressor constantly runs. The door that pops open to allow the cold air from the freezer to drop down into the refrigerator is always open (never closes). I checked resistance on the old thermostat after removing it (got 362k ohms). There is also ice build up on the copper tube that the thermostat is clipped onto. What else can I check to figure out the problem?

1 Answer

Joe, The first thing you have to look at is whether the refrigerator is getting too cold. If the refrigerator is getting too cold then there should be an adjustment screw on the thermostat that you can try to adjust it a little at a time. If the unit is not getting too cold then the unit is working as it should be. This unit does not have a door that opens and closes between the refrigerator and freezer. This is just a duct that allows the cold air to flow.

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1 Answer

Jocelyne, The defrost timer could certainly be an issue but you will want to test the defrost heater for continuity and test the defrost thermostat for continuity while still sitting in the ice. If they test good for continuity then replace the timer. If they do not test good for continuity then replace the part that fails the test.

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1 Answer

Peter, based on the information provided, it sounds like the defrost drain tube is clogged and needs to be cleaned thoroughly. This can cause excessive frost to build on the evaporator and reduce/stop proper airflow which will cause the compressor and fans to run continuously.

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1 Answer

Rich, You will want to look under the control panel and there will be 2 screws that will need to be removed to remove the control panel to gain access to the timer.

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1 Answer

It is a cumulative. It only advances based on compressor run time. It sounds like the timer is fine.

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1 Answer

Hello Jeff, Pull the control slide "knobs" straight off. The bottom will flex down and forward to unhook form the mount. The lens will then lift straight up to unhook from the top for removal. The process is reversed for re-installation. Note that the lens has to be "flexed" to be removed or re-installed.

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1 Answer

Michael, The evaporator/freezer fan motor runs whenever the power is supplied to the compressor(all three components operate on the same circuit). The fans (both condenser and evaporator) will run until the selected temperature is reached and power cycles off through the cold control. Check and make sure the interior lights go out when the door is closed, make sure both doors close and seal properly. You would also want to move the refrigerator out, unplug the power cord, remove the compressor cover and vacuum or wipe the condenser compressor and fan, this will help to produce a more energy efficient refrigerator.

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