Maytag Refrigerator Wiring Guide

Compressor

• The compressor is the main motor for your Maytag refrigerator. The temperature control has a blue wire running to the compressor. Whenever a temperature reaches a specific set level, the temperature control signals the compressor to turn on, so that the refrigerant gas can provide cooling. There is also an overload switch between the compressor and temperature control, which shuts off the compressor if an electrical overload occurs.

Defrosting

• Modern Maytag refrigerators have an automatic defrosting system. The defrost thermostat is wired to a defrost heater and the temperature control. The power supply also leads to the adaptive defrost control board. Whenever the defrost mode is selected, the thermostat signals the heater to turn on, while the control board maintains the rate of defrost. This keeps the defrosted water from refreezing, and causes it instead to drip down to the drain pan.

Fans

• Condenser and freezer fans are found in Maytag refrigerator models. The condenser fan is wired to the compressor, while the freezer fan has a connection to the adaptive defrost control. Whenever the compressor sends the cool liquid through the condenser, it gives off heat. The fan blows the heat away from the condenser, so that the refrigerator stays cool. The freezer fan operates in the same manner when the defroster is selected. The freezer fan turns on to keep the defroster heater from melting the ice too fast.

Accessories

• Maytag refrigerator accessories are also electrically powered. Light switches are directly wired to the power-supply line, to go off and on as the freezer or refrigerator doors are opened. If the Maytag model has an ice and water dispenser, a switchboard is connected to the selection buttons, so that the door solenoid knows which one to dispense. Some ice-maker models come with an auger motor. When the ice selection is depressed, the auger rotates and pushes the ice through the dispenser.