How to Reset a Refrigerator Defrost Timer
Refrigerator defrost timers are essential to keeping a refrigeration system functioning properly. Defrost timers use a system to prevent the heat coils inside the unit from freezing up, allowing the heat coils to extract the warm air. The refrigeration system is then able to force the cool air inside of the refrigerator to keep its contents cold.
What You'll Need:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Socket wrench
- Find the defrost timer. It is generally located behind the refrigerator or underneath the refrigerator.
- Next, take off the panel that is located just below the refrigerator doors. It can easily be removed by snapping it off or by pulling it in an outward position away from the refrigerator. If the door is attached with the use of screws, make sure you have removed every screw before you begin pulling it off. If the defrost timer is positioned at the bottom of the refrigerator, it should be attached at the corner pieces of the panel.
- Take off the rear panel with the use of a screwdriver or a socket wrench.
- Once the panel has been completely removed, if the defrost timer is located in the back it will be on one of the corner pieces as well.
- The front of the defrost timer should include a round notch. Use a flat-head screwdriver to turn this notch counter clockwise.
- Continue turning the notch in this direction until the refrigerator fan has shut off.
- You have not reset the defrost timer.
- Replace the front panel back on either by snapping it into place or replacing the screws with the use a screwdriver.
- Within 20 minutes the defrost timer should automatically turn back on.