GE Freezer Defrost Heater (WR51X31995)

The GE Freezer Defrost Heater is a heating element mounted near the evaporator coils inside your bottom-mount refrigerator's freezer compartment, where it periodically activates to melt away frost buildup on the coils. Without this regular defrost cycle, ice accumulates on the coils and blocks airflow, preventing the refrigerator from cooling properly. It works together with the defrost thermostat and timer or control board to run timed heating cycles that keep the coils clear.

The GE Freezer Defrost Heater can burn out over time from repeated heating cycles, electrical surges, or a faulty thermostat that allows the heater to overheat. When the heater fails, frost builds up unchecked on the evaporator coils, restricting airflow and causing the refrigerator and freezer sections to lose their ability to maintain proper temperatures.

These symptoms may indicate your defrost heater needs to be replaced:

- Excessive frost or ice covering the back wall or coils in the freezer

- Freezer is not cold enough or food is thawing unexpectedly

- Fresh food compartment is warmer than normal

- Refrigerator runs constantly without cycling off

- Visible ice blocking the evaporator fan area

- Unusual humming or the fan sounds muffled or obstructed