Refrigerator Not Cooling Properly? Evaporator Thermistor W11649686 – Fix Erratic Temps & Freeze-Overs Fast
If your refrigerator runs constantly but won’t reach temperature, freezes over the evaporator coils, or swings between too cold and not cold enough — a failed evaporator thermistor is one of the most common causes. In Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid refrigerators, the evaporator thermistor monitors the temperature of the evap coil and signals the control board to regulate defrost cycles and compressor run time. When it fails or reads out of range, the control board loses accurate temperature data — causing the fridge to over-cool, under-cool, or allow ice to build up on the evaporator until airflow is blocked entirely. ⚡ Common diagnostic finding on Whirlpool-platform refrigerators with cooling or defrost complaints. Part W11649686 is the correct OEM evaporator thermistor that restores accurate temperature sensing and proper defrost cycle control.
❓ Is This the Right Part?
This is the correct fix if ALL of the following are true:
- ✔ Refrigerator powers on and compressor runs (you can hear it cycling)
- ✔ Freezer or fridge section is not maintaining correct temperature
- ✔ Evaporator coils are icing over heavily or defrost is not completing
- ✔ Control board diagnostic or thermistor resistance test shows out-of-range reading on the evap sensor
Not sure? Send us your model number — we’ll confirm before you order.
🔧 Common Symptoms
- Refrigerator not cooling — fridge or freezer warmer than set temperature
- Evaporator coils completely iced over — blocked airflow to fridge compartment
- Compressor runs constantly but temperature never stabilizes
- Error code on display related to evaporator or freezer temperature sensor
✔ If these symptoms match, the evaporator thermistor is a primary suspect alongside the defrost heater and defrost thermostat.
✔ In most cases, replacing this thermistor restores accurate defrost cycling and normal cooling performance immediately.
📦 Part Details
- Part Number: W11649686
- Type: Evaporator Thermistor / Temperature Sensor — NTC sensor for evap coil monitoring, OEM replacement
- Replaces: W11649686 (current OEM number — verify cross-refs with your model)
- Brands: Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, Amana, Jenn-Air
If the evaporator was heavily iced over, also test the defrost heater and defrost thermostat (thermal limiter) while the evap cover is off — a failed heater or thermostat is often the root cause of the ice buildup that stressed the thermistor. Replacing all three defrost components together is the most reliable fix.
⚙️ Installation
Skill Level: MODERATE — 30–45 minutes. Unplug the refrigerator before servicing. Remove all freezer contents and shelving, then unscrew the rear evaporator cover panel to access the evap coil. Locate the thermistor clipped to the evaporator coil, disconnect the wire harness, and swap in the new sensor. Reinstall the cover panel, reload the freezer, and restore power. Allow 24 hours for temperatures to fully stabilize.
✓ Compatible Models
Compatible with Whirlpool, Maytag, and KitchenAid French door, side-by-side, and bottom-freezer refrigerator models that use the W11649686 evaporator thermistor. Contact us to verify your model number before ordering.
💡 Pro Tip
Before ordering, unplug the fridge and test the evap thermistor with a multimeter set to resistance (ohms). At room temperature (~21°C / 70°F), a good NTC thermistor typically reads around 10,000–16,500 ohms. An open circuit (OL) or near-zero reading confirms the sensor has failed. This 2-minute test saves you from replacing the wrong part.
✓ 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.
Buy Online Pick Up In-Store
Kitchener, Ontario N2E 1W8
- Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
