Whirlpool Refrigerator defrost thermostat WPW10225581, Replaces W10225581, W10260437

OEM refrigerator defrost thermostat that clips onto the evaporator and monitors evaporator-coil temperature during the defrost cycle. Standard wire connectors may be required for installation.

Is This the Right Part?

✅ Cross Reference Information

Common Symptoms

• Heavy frost or ice on the freezer’s rear evaporator cover
• Freezer temperature gradually rising while the unit continues running
• Fresh-food section warming because frost restricts evaporator airflow
• Defrost heater not energizing during a defrost cycle
• Defrost cycle terminating improperly or running abnormally

Check Before Replacing

• Unplug the refrigerator before accessing the thermostat or freezer evaporator area.
• Visually inspect for heavy, uniform frost buildup on the evaporator area; this indicates a defrost-system issue but does not by itself identify the failed component.
• With the thermostat removed from the circuit and the component cold, check continuity only if the applicable service information permits it; a thermostat that remains open when cold may be faulty.
• Inspect the thermostat clip, wire leads, and connectors for looseness, corrosion, or heat damage.
• Check the defrost heater and associated wiring separately rather than assuming the thermostat is the cause.

Pro Tip

Part Details

Key Features

• Whirlpool genuine OEM refrigerator defrost thermostat
• Bimetal temperature-operated component
• Clips onto the evaporator
• Controls defrost-heater circuit operation through temperature-dependent contacts
• Standard wire connectors may be required when transferring the wiring

Installation Notes

• Disconnect electrical power before beginning service.
• Access and remove the freezer evaporator-area covering as required by the refrigerator’s model-specific service procedure.
• Transfer or splice the wiring only with properly rated standard wire connectors and maintain one-to-one wire connections.
• Clip the replacement thermostat securely onto the evaporator in the original location.
• Restore panels and wiring exactly as found before reconnecting power.

Verified Compatible Models

10644022602, 10644263600, 10650585001, 10651159111, 10651173310, 10656869600, 10658989801, 10659207992, ED2KVEXVB01, ED5JHGXRL01, ED25PQXDW01, ED25RFXFW01, GS5SHAXNL00, KSCS25FKSS02, KSCS25INSS00

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