If your refrigerator is freezing the food instead of just keeping it chilled or the evaporator coils won’t defrost, the temperature control thermostat or defrost thermostat could be malfunctioning. You can use a multimeter to test both of these parts for continuity, a continuous electrical path present in the part. Place the temperature control thermostat sensing bulb in ice water, attach the multimeter leads to the terminals, and rotate the dial. As the dial reaches a lower setting, the continuity should be interrupted. If the thermostat tests positive for continuity at all settings, the part has shorted closed and will need to replace. The defrost thermostat will need to be tested at a temperature of 15° Fahrenheit or lower for a proper reading. If the part tests negative for continuity at this temperature, it is defective.
Repair Clinic stocks thermostat components for all major refrigerator brands: Frigidaire, Whirlpool, GE, Samsung, Kenmore, LG, Roper, and more. To find the right part for your refrigerator, enter the full model number of the appliance in our website search bar to see a complete list of compatible parts. You can then choose "Thermostat” from the part category filter to locate the specific thermostat component you need. Can’t find the part you want? Give our Customer Service Team a call at 1-800-269-2609 and a representative will assist you with your selection.