Whirlpool Refrigerator Defrost thermostat assembly, clip-on bi-metal WP4387490, Replaces 2176941, 2183073, 4387490, 9791823

Genuine Whirlpool clip-on bi-metal defrost thermostat assembly for refrigerators. It protects the evaporator from overheating during the defrost cycle; listed operating range is approximately 6.7–14.5°C.

Is This the Right Part?

✅ Cross Reference Information

Common Symptoms

• Frost or ice buildup on the freezer evaporator or rear freezer panel
• Freezer not defrosting
• Refrigerator section becoming warm while the freezer remains relatively cold
• Reduced airflow caused by frost accumulation
• Refrigerator running for extended periods while cooling performance declines

Check Before Replacing

• Unplug the refrigerator before accessing or testing the thermostat.
• Visually inspect the evaporator area for abnormal frost buildup; this confirms a defrost-system symptom but does not by itself identify the thermostat as the cause.
• If the thermostat can be safely disconnected and removed according to the appliance service instructions, check continuity with a multimeter while the thermostat is cold. The thermostat should be evaluated within its specified cold operating range; a no-continuity result when cold can indicate a defective thermostat, but the heater, wiring, timer, and control components should also be considered.
• Do not perform live-voltage testing unless qualified and equipped to follow the appliance-specific service documentation.

Pro Tip

Part Details

Key Features

• Genuine Whirlpool OEM refrigerator part
• Clip-on bi-metal defrost thermostat assembly
• Mounts directly to the evaporator
• Protective defrost-cycle component
• Listed operating range approximately 6.7–14.5°C

Installation Notes

• Disconnect electrical power before installation.
• Access is typically through the freezer compartment after removing the applicable interior shelves, ice container, and rear evaporator cover as permitted by the specific refrigerator design.
• Remove the old thermostat from the evaporator and install the replacement in the same clip-on location so it makes proper contact with the evaporator tubing.
• Route and connect the leads to match the original wiring arrangement; avoid stressing or pinching the wires when reinstalling the cover.
• Wear protective work gloves when working around freezer panels and evaporator components.
• Confirm the replacement part against the appliance model and service documentation before installation.

Verified Compatible Models

ET4WSMXKQ02, ET6CSKXKT01, ET6WSKXKT03, ET8GTMXKQ00, ET14JMYAN01, ET14ZKXAW02, IT18DKXSQ00, RT14DKXKT04, RT14GDXBL00, RT14GDXDN00, RT14HDXDN00, RT14HKXAL00, RT14HKYAL00, TT14CKXAW00, TT14HDXBN01

Fitment reminder: Match the complete appliance model number, including suffix or revision where applicable, before ordering.