Troubleshooting a Refrigerator Defrost Timer

A defrost timer could be your problem with your refrigerator if you find that it is cooling down too much and not functioning correctly. The timer helps when the refrigerator is trying to level out the temperature and avoid ice building up. Some people may go out and buy a new refrigerator if this happens. However, you should first try to ascertain what has caused the problem and then try to repair it. So the aim is to test the timer in your refrigerator to see if it is working. If it is working normally, then you can place it back into the appliance, and if it is not, then you should either repair or replace the timer as soon as possible.

Check the Potential Causes

Firstly, before you set about fixing the problem you should ascertain exactly what the cause is and work out the best course of action to take. If this involves the defrost timer for the refrigerator, then you should have a look to see what temperature it should be set at and what temperature it is actually set to. It is possible that the dial has been turned accidentally or knocked to another setting and, if this is the case, then your job is simple. If, however, the setting appears to be correct but you sill have problems with the temperature in the refrigerator, then you should try to work out what you can do to fix the issue.

Repair and Replace the Defrost Timer

Once you have ascertained that your refrigerator does in fact have a problem with the timer, you should then unplug the refrigerator so there is no power running through it. This is important when you work on any electrical product or appliance for safety reasons. The next thing you need to do is to find where the control panel for your defrost timer is in the freezer. Make sure that you get rid of all of the items near it so you have space to work. Once you find the dial, then the timer should be situated just behind it. Use a flashlight if you need to see what you are doing. Remove the cover that protects the controls and unscrew any screws that are in place to hold it on. It is possible in some circumstances that you will need to remove the dial before taking the cover off. Next you should turn the dial so it is at the coldest setting possible and take out the wires that are attached. You should make a note of where these go for when you put them back. Take the timer out of the refrigerator and when it is out you can test it. Set the dial again but this time to the warmest setting. Place this in a refrigerator that works for around 30 minutes. After this time you should check the reading on the timer is correct and if it is then the timer is okay. You should then install it back into your refrigerator and make sure to put everything back the way you found it originally.