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

Technical Background:

The refrigerator's main control unit (MCU) manages the defrost cycle. A timer initiates the defrost cycle, activating the defrost heater. The defrost thermostat monitors the evaporator coil temperature, turning off the heater once the coil reaches a certain temperature (around 40-50°F). If any of these components fail, ice can accumulate excessively.

Symptoms:

The evaporator fan inside your Whirlpool refrigerator freezer compartment is making a clicking or scraping noise. This is usually caused by the fan blade hitting excessive ice buildup on the evaporator coil or surrounding areas. Food may not be freezing properly, and the refrigerator compartment may be warmer than usual.

Possible Causes:

Defrost heater failure
Defrost thermostat malfunction
Defrost control board (MCU) failure
Blocked defrost drain
Door seal leaks allowing moist air in

Solution:

1

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

Remove the evaporator cover inside the freezer to access the evaporator coil and fan. This usually requires removing screws with a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Use a hairdryer on low setting to carefully melt the ice buildup around the fan blade and evaporator coil. Avoid using sharp objects.
4

Inspect the defrost heater element (usually at the bottom of the evaporator coil) for continuity using a multimeter. It should measure around 20-40 ohms. If open, replace the heater.
5

Check the defrost thermostat attached to the evaporator coil. It should be closed (continuity) when cold and open when warm. If faulty, replace.
6

Clear the defrost drain. Pour hot water down the drain to flush out any blockages. Use a pipe cleaner or small wire to remove stubborn clogs.
7

Reassemble the evaporator cover and plug the refrigerator back in or turn the breaker back on.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the appliance before performing any repairs. Use Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) procedures to prevent accidental power reconnection. Be aware of high voltage circuits within the refrigerator.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect and clean the door seals to ensure a tight seal. Avoid leaving the refrigerator door open for extended periods. Ensure proper ventilation around the refrigerator to allow for efficient heat dissipation. Consider cleaning the condenser coils at the back of the unit every 6 months with a vacuum.

Expert Tip:

Some Whirlpool refrigerators have a diagnostic mode that allows you to manually initiate a defrost cycle. Consult the service manual for your specific model for the activation sequence. This can help you confirm if the defrost system is functioning correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I access the defrost heater on my Whirlpool refrigerator?

The defrost heater is typically located at the bottom of the evaporator coil, behind the evaporator cover in the freezer compartment. Remove the screws holding the cover in place to access the heater.

•What is the correct resistance reading for the defrost heater?

The resistance of a good defrost heater is typically between 20 and 40 ohms. Use a multimeter to measure the resistance across the heater terminals after disconnecting it from the wiring harness. An open circuit indicates a faulty heater.

•Where is the defrost timer or control board located?

The defrost timer or control board location varies depending on the model. Older models may have a mechanical timer in the control panel. Newer models typically have an electronic control board located behind the refrigerator or in the control panel. Refer to your refrigerator's service manual for the exact location.

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 access the defrost heater on my Whirlpool refrigerator?

•What is the correct resistance reading for the defrost heater?

•Where is the defrost timer or control board located?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: