Refrigerator Not Cooling? Defrost Heater Assembly 242044008 – Fix Frost Buildup Fast
Excess frost on the evaporator coils is starving your fridge of cold air. In most Frigidaire-built refrigerators, this is caused by a failed defrost heater. When it fails, frost never melts during the automatic defrost cycle, ice packs the coils, and cooling drops off. ⚡ Common failure point in Frigidaire-built refrigerators. Part 242044008 is the genuine OEM replacement that restores the defrost cycle and normal cooling.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ Refrigerator powers on and the compressor runs normally
- ✔ Freezer gets cold but the fresh-food section is warm
- ✔ Airflow/fan confirmed working
- ✔ ONLY problem is heavy frost/ice buildup on the evaporator coils
Not sure? Send us your model number — we'll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Fresh-food compartment warm while freezer stays cold
- Thick frost or ice sheet on the back evaporator panel
- Fridge cools normally then gradually warms over a few days
- Water pooling or ice at the bottom of the freezer
✔ If these symptoms match, this is the most likely failed component in the system.
✔ In most cases, replacing this defrost heater restores normal operation immediately.
📦 Part Details
- Part Number: 242044008
- Type: Calrod defrost-heater assembly — 375 Watts, 115V
- Replaces: 242044020
- Brands: Frigidaire, Kenmore, Crosley, Westinghouse, Kelvinator
While the coils are exposed, check the defrost thermostat and defrost timer/control board — a failed heater is often paired with a worn thermostat, and replacing both prevents a repeat teardown.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: MODERATE — 30–45 minutes. Disconnect power before servicing. Remove the freezer rear panel to expose the evaporator coils, unclip the old heater from the coil assembly, transfer the wiring harness to the new heater, then reinstall the panel and restore power.
✓ Compatible Models
Confirmed compatible with 25360412410, 25360412610, 25360413710 plus 27 additional Frigidaire-built Kenmore models. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.
💡 Pro Tip
Before replacing, check the heater for continuity with a multimeter — no continuity confirms a failed element. Doing this first saves you from swapping the wrong part and rules out the thermostat as the culprit.
✓ Model-Specific Repair Pages
✅Compatibility & Cross Reference
Not sure about your model number? Call 1-877-899-7278 and we’ll help you confirm. All brand names are the property of their respective owners and are used for compatibility reference only.
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