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I have a GE model DFE29JSDASS that is 5.5 years old. Recently, we noticed the temperature display read 69 degrees, so we knew we had a problem. I pulled out all the drawers and shelves and exposed the evaporator coil and fan. The first thing I noticed was the fan was not running. After unplugging the fan and plugging it back in, it immediately turned on and has been running since. Overnight, that alone dropped the temperature back down around 35. However, now I noticed that the evaporator coil is covered with a substantial amount of frost - looks more like snow. I defrosted it once with a hair dryer and it was back in a couple of hours. So it seems there may be more of an issue that just the fan. Not sure what steps to take next. Any direction would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Hi, You may have a problem with either the defrost heater or the defrost thermostat. Most fridges go into the auto defrost cycle about once every 8 - 12 hours (depending on maker). When this occurs the compressor and the evaporator fan are turned off for about 20-30 minutes This allows the temp in the freezer to rise to just above 32 deg F (0 deg C) which allows to frost to melt and drain away. The process is sped up by turning on the defrost heater. After a suitable time delay (defrost thermostat) the compressor and evap fan are turned back on to drive the freezer temp back down to 0 deg F (-18 deg C). I suggest that you disconnect and test the defrost heater for continuity using an Ohmmeter to see if it is OK (do this with the power disconnected from the fridge. If it’s OK look at the defrost thermostat. Here’s a link to the relevant freezer parts section showing the location and cost of the parts. Hopefully this is of some help.
