Genuine OEM Replacement Part
Bosch Refrigerator Defrost Heater 00717307
Part# 00717307
Fits Bosch
Fits Thermador
Fits Gaggenau
Refrigerator Freezing Over? Defrost Heater 00717307 – Fix Frost Buildup and Cooling Failure Fast
If your Bosch refrigerator is accumulating heavy frost on the evaporator coils, running warm, or cycling off due to ice blockage, a failed defrost heater is the most common cause. In Bosch-built refrigerators, the defrost heater melts frost off the evaporator coils on a timed cycle — when it fails, frost accumulates unchecked, blocks airflow, and the refrigerator loses its ability to cool properly. ⚡ Common failure point in Bosch, Thermador, and Gaggenau refrigerators. Part 00717307 is the genuine OEM defrost heater that restores the automatic defrost cycle and full cooling performance immediately.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ Your refrigerator powers on and the compressor runs
- ✔ The evaporator fan operates (you can hear airflow)
- ✔ Heavy frost or ice is visible on the back wall of the freezer or evaporator panel
- ✔ The defrost thermostat and defrost timer/control board have been tested and are OK
- ✔ ONLY problem is frost accumulation, reduced cooling, or the unit warming up after a defrost cycle fails
Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Heavy frost or ice buildup on the back wall of the freezer — most common sign of defrost failure
- Refrigerator not cooling properly despite compressor running
- Evaporator fan blocked by ice — loud buzzing or no airflow from vents
- Refrigerator cools normally after manual defrost but problem returns within days
- Freezer temperature normal but fresh food section too warm
- Visible burn mark or open circuit on the heater element
✔ If these symptoms match, the defrost heater is the most likely failed component in the defrost system.
✔ In most cases, replacing this defrost heater restores the automatic defrost cycle and full cooling immediately.
📦 Part Details
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Part Number: 00717307
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Type: Refrigerator defrost heater element assembly
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Replaces: OEM direct-fit defrost heater — genuine Bosch replacement (no modification required)
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Brands: Bosch, Thermador, Gaggenau, Siemens
⚠️ Recommended While Repairing:
While the evaporator panel is open, test the defrost thermostat (thermal limiter) and defrost control board — a failed thermostat is the second most common defrost system failure and costs far less than a repeat service call. Replacing both the heater and thermostat together is the complete defrost system repair.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: MODERATE — 45–60 minutes. Unplug the refrigerator before beginning. Remove all freezer contents and shelving, then remove the rear evaporator panel to access the heater. Disconnect the heater wiring harness, swap in the new 00717307, and reassemble in reverse order. Allow the unit to run through a full defrost cycle before confirming the repair is complete.
💡 Pro Tip
Manual Defrost First — Then Confirm the Heater:
Before ordering, manually defrost the unit by unplugging it for 24–48 hours with the freezer door open. If the refrigerator cools normally afterward but the frost returns within a few days, the defrost heater (or thermostat) is confirmed failed. This step rules out a one-time ice blockage and confirms you need 00717307.
Model hub pages: Contact us with your model number to be linked to your model-specific parts page.
