How to Troubleshoot a Defrost Timer for a Freezer

A defrost timer is the part of your freezer that shuts off power to the cooling system at specific intervals. When the defrost timer is functioning properly, the temperature inside the freezer remains steady, so your food won’t thaw but frost won’t form on the inside walls of the freezer. If you encounter problems with your defrost timer, you can usually perform a few troubleshooting tips that will get it back on track.

Screwdriver
Multitester

Instructions

- 1
  Check your fuse box or circuit breakers and ensure the freezer is plugged in securely if the freezer isn’t cooling at all.
- 2
  Locate the defrost timer in your freezer by looking behind the front grille that is behind the freezer near the compressor or in a compartment inside the freezer. Check the specifications of your particular model to confirm the location.
- 3
  Turn the advance screw on the timer clockwise until you hear a click signifying it is in the next mode. Wait for about 30 minutes and listen for it to switch.
- 4
  Test the timer with a multitester for continuity. Locate the common terminal on your defrost timer, marked "3" or "c." Set the tester to the ohms setting, and then touch one probe to the common terminal and the other probe to the other three terminals on the timer. The tester should read zero or close to zero ohms to signify continuity.

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