Maytag Refrigerator MTB2146BEA Freezer section too warm

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

• 1 defrost timer

• 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

This evaporator fan motor circulates cold air across the evaporator coils and through the freezer and fresh-food sections to maintain even temperatures. Replacing a failed or noisy motor restores proper airflow and dependable cooling performance.

• Drives the evaporator fan blade to move air over the coils and throughout the cabinet
• Helps maintain consistent temperatures between freezer and refrigerator compartments
• Failure symptoms include weak/no airflow, the fan not running, loud squealing/rumbling, or the fresh-food section warming up
• Poor airflow can also lead to frost or ice buildup on the freezer back panel

• Disconnect power before servicing; wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection
• Access the motor behind the freezer's rear panel; use caution around sharp metal and evaporator fins
• Note wire positions; transfer the fan blade and any brackets/grommets from the original motor; secure wiring connections
• Ensure the blade spins freely; engage the door switch when testing and strong airflow after reassembly

This defrost thermostat senses the evaporator coil temperature and controls the defrost heater. Replacing a failed thermostat restores proper defrosting to prevent heavy frost buildup and helps your refrigerator keep consistent, reliable cooling.

• Monitors evaporator temperature to allow the defrost heater to energize and to terminate the cycle as the coil warms
• Protects against overheating in the evaporator area during defrost
• Failure symptoms include frost/ice buildup on the evaporator cover, reduced airflow, fresh food section warming, or the unit not defrosting
• Typically mounts clipped to the evaporator tubing inside the freezer

• Disconnect power before servicing and remove the freezer's rear panel to access the evaporator
• Transfer the clip/bracket if present and mount the new thermostat in the same location, ensuring firm metal-to-metal contact with the evaporator tubing
• Route wires away from the heater and moving parts; secure connections and reassemble panels before restoring power
• Wear cut-resistant gloves—sheet-metal edges can be sharp

This PTC start relay plugs onto the compressor to momentarily power the start winding and help the compressor spin up smoothly. Replacing a failed relay can stop repetitive clicking and help restore stable cooling performance. What it does:

• Momentarily energizes the compressor's start winding at startup; the PTC element then increases resistance to take the start winding out of the circuit.
• Helps protect against repeated hard-start attempts that cause clicking and no-cool conditions.
• Common failure signs include repeated clicking, the compressor not starting, warm temperatures, burn marks/melted housing, or a relay that rattles when shaken.
• Mounts directly on the compressor terminals and interfaces with the model-specific overload and cover.

• 1 PTC start relay

• Disconnect power and allow components to cool before servicing.
• Access the compressor compartment; remove any cover/retainer to reach the start device.
• Note wiring and orientation; pull the old relay straight off the compressor pins and push the new relay fully onto the pins. Reconnect wires and reinstall the cover.
• Use only the start device specified for your exact model/compressor. If the old relay shows heat damage, inspect the matching overload and wiring for issues.