Troubleshooting a GE Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Defrost Failure

Locate the defrost timer on your model. Check the manual to see where the timer is. It is usually behind either the compressor or the thermostat control. If the timer gets stuck, your freezer either stays in defrost mode and melts all the ice entirely or never goes into defrost mode and builds up ice. Turn the screw on the side of the timer to see whether that gets the timer working again.

Adjust the thermostat. Turning the dial down should make the refrigerator and freezer colder, while turning it up should result in warmer temperatures. This also affects the defrost mode. Some models have separate thermostats for the refrigerator and freezer sections. Test them both. If adjusting the thermostat does not rectify the defrost failure, the thermostat likely needs replacement, especially if the thermostat on the refrigerator side is not functioning either or if the fridge is not cold.

Remove the rear panel of the freezer and pour warm water over any frost buildup on the coils. The water then drains out through the drain hole in the freezer. This helps the fridge and freezer resume normal operation because the frost prevented the coils from functioning properly. If the problem recurs, the refrigerator likely needs professional repair.

Examine the defrost drain in the freezer if ice is forming at the bottom. Remove the drain plug and push a pipe cleaner through it to help eliminate food and debris clogs. Pour white vinegar down the drain to further break up any clogging or ice buildup. Remove the drain pan and wash it. Once the drain is clean, ice stops accumulating and the defrost function resumes normal operation.

Contact GE Appliance Service at 800-848-7620 and ask for assistance if you still have defrost problems. Your refrigerator may still be under warranty, so contact the store where you purchased the appliance as well.