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.
Frigidaire Refrigerator 5303918568
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Confirm the complete model number before ordering. Similar parts may use different connectors, dimensions, hose positions, electrical ratings, or mounting points.
- 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
- 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
- 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
The defrost system has three parts that can cause identical symptoms: the defrost timer or control board, the defrost heater, and the defrost thermostat. Before replacing the thermostat, test the heater for continuity (open = replace heater first) and verify the defrost timer or board is initiating the cycle. Replacing the thermostat when the heater is the actual failure wastes a part. A 10-minute multimeter check on all three saves a second disassembly.
Part Details
Use a qualified technician when diagnosis or installation is outside your experience. Gas parts should be installed by a licensed technician.
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Kitchener, Ontario N2E 1W8
