If your refrigerator or freezer is warming up, running too long, or building heavy frost on the evaporator, the defrost timer may be failing. Part 215846602 is a common mechanical timer used on many top-mount and side-by-side units in the Frigidaire and Kenmore families. This guide explains what the timer does, how to confirm the fault, and how to replace it safely.
What the Defrost Timer Does
Mechanical defrost timers cycle the refrigerator between cooling and defrost. During cooling, the compressor and fans remove heat from the cabinet. After several hours of run time, the timer switches power to the defrost circuit so the heater can clear ice on the evaporator. A typical schedule is 6 to 12 hours of cooling followed by 15 to 30 minutes of defrost. When the timer sticks, you will see frost buildup, temperature swings, or nonstop running.
Common Symptoms of a Bad Defrost Timer
- Frost covers the evaporator and air vents, fresh food warms while the freezer seems cold
- Unit runs continuously and rarely shuts off
- Unit shuts off and never resumes cooling until power is reset
- Clicking from the control area with no consistent cooling cycle
Safety First
- Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the dedicated breaker
- Turn off the water supply if an ice maker or water line is present
- Use cut-resistant gloves and eye protection when working under panels
For model-specific diagrams and control locations, see Frigidaire Support. For electrical safety basics, review the CSA electrical safety tips.
Tools and Parts
- 1/4 inch nut driver
- Phillips screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Flat blade screwdriver
- Replacement timer 215846602 (verify by model)
Quick Diagnosis Before You Replace
- Force a manual advance. Many timers have a small slotted dial. With power connected, carefully turn the dial until you hear a click. The unit should enter defrost and the compressor should stop. After 15 to 30 minutes, advance again to resume cooling. If the timer will not advance or gets stuck in defrost or cool, replace it. Unplug power immediately after testing.
- Check the defrost components. If the timer advances but you still have heavy frost, test the defrost heater and defrost thermostat for continuity with the unit unplugged. A blown heater or open thermostat can mimic a bad timer.
- Adaptive systems note. Some newer models use an electronic adaptive defrost control instead of a mechanical timer. If your refrigerator does not have a mechanical timer in the ceiling or control housing, consult the service sheet for your model.
Where to Find the Timer
On many top-freezer designs, the defrost timer sits in a small control panel on the refrigerator ceiling, behind the light housing and temperature controls. Your original instructions place it there and that location is common for part 215846602.
Step-by-Step: Replace Defrost Timer 215846602
- Unplug the refrigerator. Open the fresh food door and remove the upper shelf for access.
- Locate the ceiling control panel. Remove the four 1/4 inch screws that secure the panel.
- Lower the panel carefully. Disconnect the wiring harness by pressing the side locking tabs. If a drain tube is integrated with the panel, note its path so you can reseat it later.
- Turn the panel over to access the timer. Remove the two Phillips screws holding the timer. Pull the timer free and disconnect its small harness if present.
- Position the new timer. Connect the harness and mount the timer with the two screws. Ensure the timer alignment pin matches the molded slot so the dial faces the access hole if one exists.
- Reinstall the ceiling panel. Feed the drain tube into its opening at the back. Reconnect the control harness firmly until it clicks. Secure the four 1/4 inch screws.
- Reinstall the shelf, close the door, and restore power. The refrigerator should start in a cooling cycle. Allow several hours for temperatures to stabilize.
After Installation Checks
- Listen for the evaporator and condenser fans and confirm the compressor starts smoothly
- Place thermometers in both compartments and verify proper temperatures within 12 to 24 hours
- Monitor the next defrost. A light frost on the evaporator should clear on its own without blocking airflow
When the Timer Is Not the Fix
If frost returns quickly, or if the unit never cools well after replacing the timer, test the defrost heater, defrost thermostat, and cabinet thermistors. Control board faults or sealed system problems can also cause similar symptoms.
Professional Service
If you prefer a guaranteed repair with OEM parts and full diagnostics, book our refrigerator repair service. You can also browse our complete appliance repair services if you are servicing multiple units in your home.
FAQ
How do I know if my model uses a mechanical defrost timer?
Look for a small access hole near the interior temperature controls or a control panel on the refrigerator ceiling. If you can see or access a slotted dial, it is likely a mechanical timer. Many newer models use electronic controls instead.
Can I adjust the defrost frequency?
Mechanical timers are not adjustable beyond the factory cam profile. Electronic adaptive defrost systems adjust automatically based on door openings and run time.
Is it safe to run the refrigerator with a bad timer?
No. A timer that sticks in cooling can lead to a fully iced evaporator and warm fresh food. A timer that sticks in defrost can leave the unit warm and waste energy.
Do I need to replace other parts at the same time?
Inspect the defrost thermostat and heater while you have access. If either tests open when it should be closed at freezing temperatures, replace it with the timer to avoid repeat service.
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