Whirlpool Refrigerator: Evaporator Fan Blade Hitting Ice... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The MCU (Main Control Unit) controls the defrost cycle, activating the defrost heater for a specific duration. Voltage is sent through the defrost thermostat to the heater. If any component fails, ice accumulates on the evaporator coils, obstructing the fan.

Symptoms:

The evaporator fan inside the freezer compartment is making scraping or clicking noises. Ice buildup is visible on the evaporator coils, and the fan blade is hitting the ice.

Possible Causes:

Defrost heater malfunction.
Defrost thermostat failure.
Defrost timer malfunction (older models).
Air leaks into the refrigerator.
Door seals are damaged or worn.

Solution:

1

Unplug the refrigerator or turn off the breaker at the breaker panel.
2

Remove the evaporator cover inside the freezer using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the defrost heater. If it's visibly damaged (bulging or broken), replace it. Measure the heater resistance using a multimeter; it should typically be between 20-50 ohms.
4

Check the defrost thermostat. It should show continuity when cold (around 20°F). If it's open, replace it.
5

If your refrigerator has a defrost timer, manually advance it into the defrost cycle. The heater should activate. If it doesn't, the timer is likely faulty and needs replacing.
6

Examine the door seals for any rips, tears, or gaps. Replace if necessary.
7

Ensure the drain tube is clear of ice and debris. You can use a turkey baster with hot water to flush it out.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the refrigerator before performing any repairs. Use appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection. Be aware of high voltage when testing electrical components. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures should be followed.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the door seals and clean them with a mild detergent. Check the drain pan periodically to ensure it's not overflowing. Avoid overpacking the refrigerator, which can restrict airflow.

Expert Tip:

Many Whirlpool refrigerators have a service mode. Press and hold the freezer and refrigerator temperature DOWN buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds to enter diagnostics. Use this mode to manually initiate a defrost cycle to test the heater operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the defrost heater if I don't have a multimeter?

Visually inspect the heater for any breaks or bulges. If it appears intact, you can try temporarily connecting it directly to a 120V AC outlet (using appropriate safety precautions) to see if it heats up. However, this is not a reliable method and a multimeter is highly recommended for accurate testing.

•Where is the defrost thermostat located?

The defrost thermostat is typically located on or near the evaporator coil, often clipped to a fin. It's a small, round or rectangular component with two wires connected to it. You may need to remove some ice to access it.

•How often should my Whirlpool refrigerator go into a defrost cycle?

Most Whirlpool refrigerators with adaptive defrost should defrost at least once every 8 hours of compressor run time, but the interval may vary depending on usage and ambient temperature. Models with a mechanical timer will defrost at set intervals usually every 6, 8, 12, or 24 hours.

Whirlpool Refrigerator: Evaporator Fan Blade Hitting Ice - Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I test the defrost heater if I don't have a multimeter?

•Where is the defrost thermostat located?

•How often should my Whirlpool refrigerator go into a defrost cycle?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: