Parts for Maytag GFU2046GRW: Unit Compartment & System Parts

This sealed-system compressor circulates refrigerant to cool your refrigerator, restoring normal cooling performance when the compressor fails. Designed to replace a failing compressor and help bring temperatures back to safe food-storage levels. What it does:

• Compresses and circulates refrigerant through the sealed refrigeration circuit
• Restores cooling when the compressor motor runs properly
• Commonly linked to symptoms like weak or no cooling, loud humming or clattering sounds, or a refrigerator that cycles continuously
• May be the cause if the appliance frequently trips a circuit breaker or shows hard-starting behavior

• Sealed-system work requires certified HVAC/refrigeration service and proper refrigerant handling per local regulations
• Disconnect power before beginning any repair; follow lockout/tagout practices
• Compressor replacement often requires system evacuation, brazing, and recharge — do not attempt unless qualified
• Use the identical replacement part number and follow OEM service instructions to avoid damage

This replacement screw secures appliance panels, brackets, and components. Using the correct size restores a snug fit to reduce vibration, prevent loosening, and keep assemblies properly aligned during operation. What it does:

• Fastens sheet metal and component brackets in designated locations
• Replaces missing, stripped, or corroded hardware
• Helps eliminate rattling and vibration from loose panels
• Maintains proper alignment of covers and assemblies

• 1 screw

• Disconnect electrical power; shut off water or gas supplies if applicable
• Match length/thread to the original; replace one fastener at a time to preserve alignment
• Start by hand to avoid cross-threading; use the correct driver size
• Snug firmly but do not overtighten to prevent stripping

This defrost timer controls when your refrigerator or freezer enters and exits the automatic defrost cycle to clear frost from the evaporator coils. Replacing a failed timer restores reliable defrosting to help maintain airflow, cooling performance, and stable temperatures.

• Advances on a timed schedule to initiate and end the defrost cycle
• Sends power to the defrost heater during defrost, then returns the system to cooling
• Helps prevent heavy frost buildup that restricts airflow and cooling
• Common symptoms of a bad timer: unit not defrosting or warming over time, heavy ice on the evaporator/cover, stuck running or stuck in defrost, or a timer that won't advance

• Disconnect power before servicing
• Access the timer (commonly in the control housing or machine compartment)
• Note/photograph wire positions and move leads one at a time to the new timer; mount securely
• Restore power and monitor for proper cycling; some models allow using the timer's advance slot to start a test defrost

This heater is the factory heating element that supplies controlled heat for the appliance's designated cycle, helping restore consistent, reliable performance when the original element is damaged or has failed.

• Converts electrical energy into heat for the unit's specific heating function
• Common signs of failure: cycles that don't reach temperature, longer run times, or uneven results
• Visual clues can include breaks, burn marks, or hot spots on the element
• Restores designed heating performance when installed in a compatible unit

• Disconnect power at the breaker before servicing; allow components to cool
• Note wire positions and mounting hardware; transfer any brackets/insulators from the original if required
• Avoid kinking the element or over-tightening mounting screws; confirm clearances from wiring and panels
• After installation, check continuity and run a brief test cycle while monitoring operation

This defrost thermostat is a bi-metal switch that senses evaporator temperature during defrost and opens to stop heater power once the coil warms. Replacing a failed thermostat restores proper defrost, reducing ice buildup and airflow-related cooling problems.

• Monitors evaporator coil temperature during defrost
• Opens the heater circuit at a set temperature; recloses when cold for the next defrost
• Helps protect against overheating and ensures consistent defrost operation
• Common symptoms: heavy frost on the evaporator, weak airflow/warm fresh food section, repeated ice buildup after manual defrost

• Disconnect power before servicing; wear cut-resistant gloves
• Access the thermostat at the evaporator behind the freezer's rear panel
• Move wires one-for-one from the old part; mount in firm contact with the coil/tubing and secure leads away from the fan
• After installation, the thermostat should show continuity when cold and open circuit when warm

This wire harness routes electrical signals between the appliance control and internal components, restoring reliable communication and power paths. It replaces damaged or burned wiring to help resolve intermittent or failed control functions. What it does:

• Reconnects control board circuits to motors, switches, sensors, or terminal blocks
• Restores proper signal and power flow when wiring is damaged or shorted
• Helps stop intermittent operation, unexplained shutdowns, or control non-responsiveness
• Provides OEM-style replacement wiring and connector fit for direct swap

• Always disconnect power (unplug or shut off circuit breaker) before installing
• Handle connectors by the housing; avoid pulling on individual wires
• Confirm connector orientation and secure all clips and fasteners for strain relief