GE refrigerator not cooling: defrost repair in Charlotte

The refrigerator was not cooling, and the freezer was iced up

A Charlotte customer reported that their GE refrigerator was not cooling. The freezer had heavy ice buildup. The first photograph shows frost across the evaporator before repair.

The refrigerator’s model label reads STS22ICMBRWW. The photographs below show the condition before repair and the model label from the same appliance.

Why we replaced the defrost thermostat and heater

We found that the bimetal defrost thermostat was swollen and physically deteriorated. We replaced it.

The defrost heater was damaged too. Its heating element had come out of the glass tube, and the assembly was deteriorating. The heater was still working, but we replaced it because of its physical condition.

Removing the ice and checking defrost operation

We used a steam generator to thaw the accumulated ice. After replacing the thermostat and heater, we put the refrigerator into defrost mode and observed the defrost system operating. The repair was completed in one visit.

Why freezer frost can affect refrigerator cooling

Automatic defrost uses a heater to melt frost from the evaporator. If frost is allowed to build up heavily, it can restrict airflow and reduce cooling. GE describes how the automatic defrost cycle normally removes that frost.

Frost buildup can have different causes. A photograph alone cannot identify which part needs replacement; the appliance needs diagnosis.

Refrigerator repair in Charlotte

If your refrigerator is not cooling or the freezer keeps icing up, see our refrigerator repair service. For other GE appliances, visit our GE appliance repair page.

OK Appliance Repair is an independent appliance repair service in Charlotte. Call (980) 301-6530 or request service.