Frigidaire Refrigerator Defrost Thermostat 5303918568 – Fix a Fridge That Won't Defrost or Ices Over

The defrost thermostat is a thermal cutout that monitors evaporator coil temperature during the defrost cycle. It allows current to flow to the defrost heater until the coils reach the cutout temperature, then opens the circuit to prevent overheating. When it fails open, the defrost heater never activates — frost and ice accumulate on the evaporator coils, blocking airflow and causing the refrigerator to warm up progressively. When it fails closed, the heater runs unchecked and can damage the evaporator. Part 5303918568 is the genuine OEM defrost thermostat for compatible Frigidaire and Electrolux refrigerators.

⚠️ Symptoms This Part Fixes

• Heavy frost or ice buildup on the back wall of the freezer
• Refrigerator section warming up while freezer stays cold
• Evaporator coils completely iced over (visible when rear panel removed)
• Defrost cycle not running or running but not clearing ice
• Weak or no airflow from freezer vents
• Refrigerator running constantly but not maintaining temperature
• Defrost heater tests good but ice still accumulates

✓ Part Details

• OEM Part Number: 5303918568
• Cross-References: AP2150145, 216538600, 1115338, AH429655, EA429655, PS429655
• Function: Defrost thermostat / thermal cutout — limits defrost heater operation to safe coil temperature range
• Compatible Brands: Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, Gibson, Kelvinator, White-Westinghouse, Crosley
• Condition: Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) — genuine OEM pull, inspected before listing

⚙️ Installation Notes

• Skill Level: Intermediate — 30 to 45 minutes
• Disconnect power before starting
• Remove all freezer contents and shelving to access the rear panel
• Remove the rear freezer panel (typically 4–6 screws) to expose the evaporator coils
• If coils are heavily iced, defrost completely before proceeding — use a hair dryer on low or allow to thaw naturally; do not use sharp tools
• Locate the defrost thermostat clipped to the evaporator coil — it will have two wire leads
• Test the old thermostat with a multimeter at room temperature: should show continuity (closed). No continuity = failed open.
• Disconnect the leads, unclip the old thermostat, and clip the new 5303918568 onto the coil in the same position
• Reconnect leads, reinstall the rear panel, restore power, and run a manual defrost cycle to confirm operation

✓ Compatible Models

Fits compatible Frigidaire, Electrolux, Kenmore, Gibson, Kelvinator, White-Westinghouse, and Crosley refrigerators. Contact us at xpartsupply.com/pages/contact with your full model number to confirm fit before ordering.