How do I know if my defrost heater element is bad?

The defrost heater melts the ice and frost accumulated on the evaporator coil of the refrigerator or freezer. The defrost heater element working principle is to heat the evaporator coil, melt the ice and discharge the water. The defrost heater element is used to prevent the refrigerator from freezing and is controlled by a thermostat. During the defrosting cycle, the defrost heater melts the frost on the evaporator fins.

Defrosting heaters are necessary for melting the ice accumulated on the evaporator coils of commercial refrigeration equipment. When ice forms on the evaporator coil, it can seriously damage the function of the entire device, which makes it crucial to keep the defrosting heater working properly for the refrigerator and freezer.

Then how to determine if the defrost heater tube is damaged?

A damaged defrost heater tube can cause excessive ice formation on the evaporator coil, thereby raising the temperature inside the refrigerator or freezer. You can also use a multimeter to test its conductivity and resistance, which will indicate whether the heater is working properly.

Signs of damage to the defrosting heater

1. Excessive ice formation

If you find that there is more ice on the evaporator coil than usual, this might be a strong sign that the refrigeration defrost heater is about to be damaged.

2. Temperature rise

The refrigerator or freezer may not have reached the expected low temperature, or there may be temperature fluctuations.

3. Manual defrosting cycle

If you manually start the defrosting cycle but the heater doesn’t get hot, it may be damaged.

4. Conductivity test

Use a multimeter, set it to the ohm range, and then touch the probe to the terminals of the heater.

5. Resistance:

The good defrost heater should have a certain resistance value, which, according to some sources, is usually between 20 and 100 ohms. Continuity: If there is no continuity (the instrument shows an open circuit), the heater may be damaged.

If you find that the defrosting heater is damaged, it needs to be replaced. Replacing the heater might be a relatively simple DIY project, but it’s always a good idea to consult the user manual or repair video of your specific model of refrigerator.