How to Replace a Defrost Termination Thermostat in a Kenmore

The defrost termination thermostat, often referred to as simply the defrost thermostat, is located behind the rear freezer panel of your Kenmore refrigerator. The thermostat clips onto the top of the evaporator coil and detects the external temperature of the coils. If the defrost thermostat malfunctions, the defrost heater will not turn on, allowing frost and ice to form on the evaporator coils. To restore the refrigerator to working order, you must replace the defrost thermostat with a new one, which is a quick do-it-yourself task.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Wire cutters
• Wire strippers
• Silicone sealant

Instructions

1. Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet.

2. Open the freezer door and then remove all of the contents from the freezer.

3. Remove the air ducts mounted on the rear panel of the freezer by removing the screws.

4. Remove the screws securing the rear panel, then remove the rear panel of the freezer.

5. Pull the thermostat off the evaporator coils. Cut the wires as close as possible to the thermostat.

6. Strip approximately 1/4-inch of shielding from the two wires.

7. Connect the similar-color wires from the new thermostat to the wires that were stripped. Insert the end of each wire into a wire nut, then twist clockwise to secure. Fill the wire nut with silicone sealant to further secure it.

8. Clip the new thermostat onto the evaporator coil.

9. Reinstall the rear panel, securing the panel using the screws.

10. Replace the air ducts, using the screws that were removed to secure it.

11. Restore power to the freezer.

References

• Repair Clinic: Defrost Thermostat Replacement